Roasting Cherry Tomatoes: Pan Perfection

Roasting cherry tomatoes is a simple and delicious way to elevate your meals. With just a few basic ingredients and a hot oven, you can transform these tiny tomatoes into flavourful bursts of sweetness. The key to achieving that intense flavour is the roasting process, which concentrates the natural sugars and creates a caramelized exterior. The result is a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless dishes, from pasta to pizza, salads, and more.

Choosing the right tomatoes

First, look for small to medium-sized tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes, as the name suggests, are ideal, but you can also use grape tomatoes or plum tomatoes. If you opt for grape tomatoes, keep in mind that they are less sweet than cherry tomatoes. You can even mix different types and colours of tomatoes for a unique flavour and presentation.

When selecting cherry tomatoes, look for ones that are firm and vibrant in colour. Avoid any that are overly soft, have wrinkled skin, or show signs of bruising or mould. The stems should be green and firmly attached. Ripe cherry tomatoes should also have a pleasant, sweet aroma.

Before roasting, it is recommended to wash the tomatoes thoroughly, even if you plan to peel them. This will help remove any dirt or bacteria that may be present on the surface.

You can choose to roast the tomatoes whole or cut them in half. Roasting them whole will result in a more intact tomato, but halving them will allow for faster cooking and easier seasoning infusion. If you're looking for a beautiful presentation, it's best to halve the tomatoes as roasting them whole may cause them to burst open.

Lastly, consider the quantity you will need. As a guide, one pint of cherry tomatoes will yield about three cups of halved tomatoes, which is usually enough for a standard-sized baking sheet.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to choosing the perfect tomatoes for your roasted cherry tomato recipe!

Preparing the pan

Firstly, select an appropriate pan for roasting. You can use a baking sheet, a roasting pan, or a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring that it is large enough to accommodate the tomatoes in a single layer. Using non-reactive cookware, such as glass, ceramic, or stainless steel, is generally recommended when cooking acidic ingredients like tomatoes. This is because reactive cookware made of copper, iron, aluminum, or non-stainless steel can release atoms into the food and alter its flavour and colour.

Once you have chosen the right pan, preheat your oven to a temperature between 275°F and 400°F, depending on your desired cooking time and level of caramelization. A higher temperature will result in faster cooking and more caramelization.

Next, prepare the cherry tomatoes by rinsing and drying them. You can opt to keep the vines attached during roasting, as they help the tomatoes hold their shape and also look great for presentation. Place the tomatoes in the pan, arranging them in a single layer, cut-side up if they are halved.

Before placing the pan in the oven, drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them with a bit of salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic, herbs, or a pinch of sugar to enhance the flavour. The addition of olive oil not only improves the taste but also increases the absorption of healthful lycopene and other nutrients from the tomatoes.

Finally, ensure that your oven temperature is set correctly, and then place the pan of tomatoes in the oven. The roasting time will vary depending on the size of the tomatoes, the type of pan used, and your oven, but it typically ranges from 20 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the tomatoes, and remove them from the oven when they start to blister and are very tender.

Oven temperature

Roasting cherry tomatoes in the oven typically requires temperatures between 275°F and 400°F.

For example, one recipe recommends preheating the oven to 350°F/180°C and baking the tomatoes for 40-45 minutes. Another recipe suggests an oven temperature of 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

If you prefer slow-roasted tomatoes, a lower temperature of 275°F for 2 hours will do the trick.

However, it's important to note that the ideal oven temperature may vary slightly depending on the size of the tomatoes, the type of baking pan used, and your oven's unique characteristics.

Additionally, if you're looking for a more charred flavor, you can finish the tomatoes under the broiler for a few minutes after roasting.

Seasoning

A good place to start is with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and some ground black pepper. You can also add minced or sliced garlic to the mix, as well as some herbs like oregano, thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with dried herbs, Italian seasoning, or even za'atar. A tiny pinch of sugar can also enhance the natural caramelization of the tomatoes and balance their acidity.

For an extra punch of flavour, try coating your cherry tomatoes in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper before roasting them. This will give them a delicious, crispy exterior while concentrating their flavours through the roasting process.

Additionally, don't forget to make the most of the juices released by the tomatoes during roasting. These juices can be used as a "sauce" for dishes, or combined with high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a tasty bread dip.

Serving suggestions

Roasted cherry tomatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:

As a Side Dish

Roasted cherry tomatoes can be served as a simple yet elegant side dish to accompany a variety of meals. They pair well with meat, poultry, and fish. For example, you could serve them as a side to a baked chicken breast, cod, pork roast, or even oven bacon for brunch. Their intense flavour and concentrated sweetness make them a delicious and unexpected addition to any meal.

On Toast or Flatbread

For a quick and easy snack or light meal, try spreading some roasted cherry tomatoes on a slice of avocado toast or bruschetta. You can finish it with a squeeze of lemon and some chopped chives for added freshness. Alternatively, you can top it with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of chile oil for a more indulgent treat. For a heartier option, pile on some charred halloumi cheese and grilled veggies to make a delicious and satisfying open sandwich.

As a Pasta Topping

Roasted cherry tomatoes also make an excellent topping for pasta. Their sweet and tangy flavour can enhance a variety of pasta dishes, from a simple spaghetti to a more complex rice noodle dish. Try tossing them with rice noodles, chilli oil, and fresh basil for an easy and flavourful meal. You can also add them to a pasta bake or use them to make a chunky sauce for a more substantial dish.

In Salads

The intense flavour of roasted cherry tomatoes can also liven up a variety of salads. Try adding them to a Caprese salad, an Israeli salad, or even a spinach salad for a burst of sweetness and a pop of colour. They also work well in grain salads, pairing particularly well with quinoa, corn, and tofu. For a more substantial option, you can toss them with multi-grain bread, sprouts, tofu, and a spicy peanut sauce for a unique and flavourful panzanella.

In Soups

Roasted cherry tomatoes can also be used to enhance the flavour of soups. Try adding them to a California Tom Yum Soup or a Vegetarian Tortilla Soup for a burst of sweetness and depth of flavour. They can also be pureed and used as a base for a soup, although this may affect their presentation.

In Compound Butter

For a unique and flavourful twist, try folding some cooled roasted cherry tomatoes into softened butter along with some snipped chives and fresh thyme. This compound butter can then be used to elevate a variety of dishes, from baked potatoes to homemade pasta.

Frequently asked questions