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Flavorful Slow-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic

slow-roasted cherry tomatoes with garlic - featured image

Slow-roasted cherry tomatoes with garlic create a sweet, caramelized, and savory side dish that is simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The low-temperature roasting intensifies the natural sugars and mellows the garlic for a rich, jammy texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
  • 810 garlic cloves, peeled but skins left on
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 12 teaspoons fresh thyme or rosemary leaves (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly, then place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Peel the garlic cloves but keep the skins on.
  4. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the tomatoes and garlic.
  5. Sprinkle with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh thyme or rosemary if using.
  6. Toss gently to coat everything evenly without crushing the tomatoes.
  7. Spread the tomatoes and garlic in a single layer on a parchment-lined or lightly oiled rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded.
  8. Roast in the oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, checking at 45 minutes to see if tomatoes have started to shrivel and garlic is golden and soft.
  9. Remove from the oven and drizzle about 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar over the warm tomatoes if desired, then gently stir to combine.
  10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use low heat (250°F) for slow roasting to develop jammy sweetness without burning. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even roasting. Keep garlic skins on for creamy texture. Drain excess liquid if tomatoes seem watery after roasting. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and flavors deepen over time.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, side dish, easy recipe, oven roasted tomatoes, caramelized tomatoes, healthy side, vegan, gluten-free