Juicy Roasted Tomatoes Olive

Discovering roasted tomatoes felt like stumbling upon a secret treasure in my kitchen. The first time I pulled these caramelized beauties from the oven, their sweet, savory aroma filled my whole home and turned a simple side dish into a warm hug.

I remember an evening when unexpected guests dropped by and all I had were some ripe tomatoes. In less than an hour, these roasted gems saved the night and made everyone ask for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Tomatoes: I choose Roma or vine ripe tomatoes for their perfect balance of sweet and tart; halving them just right lets all those juices caramelize beautifully
• Olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil elevates the natural flavors, so reach for your favorite bottle here
• Sea salt and black pepper: These simple seasonings bring out the natural sweetness without overpowering
• Dried Italian herbs: Using a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme gives a lovely aromatic backdrop
• Garlic: Thinly sliced cloves roast to mellow perfection, adding a subtle punch
• Fresh basil: Torn over at the end for a burst of freshness that feels like summer on your tongue

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cleanup easy.

Arrange With Care:

Place the halved tomatoes cut side up in a single layer on the sheet; this helps them roast evenly and caramelize beautifully on top.

Season and Drizzle:

Drizzle olive oil over each tomato, then sprinkle sea salt, pepper, and dried herbs, making sure every piece is well coated.

Add Garlic:

Scatter the thinly sliced garlic evenly, letting it roast alongside the tomatoes and add its mellow sweetness.

Roast to Perfection:

Roast for 30 minutes until the tomatoes become soft, their edges shriveled and caramelized, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering scent.

Finish and Serve:

Allow to cool slightly, then garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, vibrant finish before serving warm or at room temperature.

Save

This dish became more than food when I served it at a family gathering; watching everyone savor bite after bite felt like sharing a little moment of joy and comfort, one roasted tomato at a time.

Keeping It Fresh

Leftover roasted tomatoes keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. I like to add them to salads or toss them into pasta for a quick burst of flavor that tastes like sunshine stored in the fridge.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

People always ask me how to serve these, and I say: don’t hold back! They’re amazing spooned over toasted sourdough, stirred into grain bowls, or as a vibrant side to grilled meats and fish.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

One rainy afternoon when the power went out, I used my outdoor grill to roast the tomatoes and it turned a dark day into a warm, cozy memory spent sharing simple food and stories.

• Remember to save some juices after roasting—they make a fantastic base for sauces or soups
• If you’re short on time, halve cherry tomatoes and roast for 20 minutes instead
• Don’t skip the fresh basil—it brings the whole dish to life at the end

Save

Thanks for sharing this kitchen moment with me. May your roasted tomatoes fill your home with warmth and flavor, every time you make them.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of tomatoes work best?

Roma or vine tomatoes are ideal due to their firm texture and balanced sweetness, which caramelizes well when roasted.

→ Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian herbs?

Yes, fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme can be used but add them after roasting to preserve their flavor.

→ How long should the tomatoes be roasted?

Roast for about 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until the tomatoes are soft, caramelized, and slightly shriveled at the edges.

→ Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

Parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier, but a well-oiled baking sheet can be used as well.

→ Can cherry tomatoes be used instead?

Yes, cherry tomatoes are a great alternative; just reduce roasting time to approximately 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.

→ What dishes pair well with these roasted tomatoes?

These tomatoes complement grilled meats, pastas, toasted bread, and can also be enjoyed warm or at room temperature as a side.