Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavor-packed side that feels like Mediterranean sunshine on your plate, Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes are a true revelation. Roasting these petite, juicy gems with olive oil, garlic, and herbs transforms them into sweet, caramelized bursts of flavor that are endlessly versatile. Tangy and sweet, with just the right hint of garlicky warmth, this dish steals the show whether scattered over pasta, spooned onto crispy crostini, or enjoyed straight from the pan. The best part? They’re as easy to make as they are impressive, making Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes a recipe you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simplicity is at the heart of this recipe, but every component plays its part to perfection. Each ingredient in Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes offers a special touch, layering color, aroma, and flavor for a dish you’ll be proud to serve.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness intensifies in the oven, providing juicy bites and vibrant color.
- Olive Oil: Extra-virgin is ideal for luxurious texture and a robust, fruity base.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the tomatoes with rich, savory depth.
- Dried Oregano: This earthy herb brings Mediterranean charm and balances the tomatoes’ sweetness.
- Salt: Just enough to draw out the juices and heighten all the flavors.
- Black Pepper: A subtle kick that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the warmth of the garlic.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (Optional): Torn basil is a beautiful, fragrant finish if you want an extra pop of freshness.
How to Make Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by getting your oven nice and hot—preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This higher heat is where the magic happens, coaxing out all those caramelized edges. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, which makes cleanup a breeze and helps the tomatoes roast, not steam.
Step 2: Mix the Tomatoes with Flavor
Grab a large bowl and tumble in your halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle them generously with olive oil, then add the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until every tomato glistens and is evenly coated—this is your flavor foundation for irresistible Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes.
Step 3: Arrange for Perfect Roasting
Transfer the tomatoes to your prepared baking sheet, cut side up. This little detail allows their juices to concentrate and helps each half get just the right amount of caramelization. If they’re too crowded, use a second pan to avoid steaming.
Step 4: Roast Until Bubbling and Caramelized
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the tomatoes to soften, wrinkle, and just start to caramelize around the edges. The aroma of roasting garlic and oregano is downright intoxicating!
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Once the tomatoes are beautifully roasted, pull them from the oven and let them cool just slightly—enough that you can handle them without burning your fingers. For an extra burst of color and fresh flavor, scatter over torn fresh basil leaves right before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of torn fresh basil is classic, but the possibilities don’t stop there. Try shaving a bit of Parmesan over the still-warm tomatoes, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Even a drizzle of good balsamic glaze can amplify the sweetness and make your Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes really shine at the table.
Side Dishes
These tomatoes are impeccably versatile. Pair them with creamy polenta, toss through your favorite pasta, or spoon atop freshly cooked grains like quinoa. They’re just as happy alongside grilled chicken or fish, and make a gorgeous topping for avocado toast or scrambled eggs at brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your appetizer game by piling the tomatoes on crispy crostini, swirling them into whipped ricotta, or folding into a warm grain salad for extra flavor and color. They even make a standout pizza topping, or can transform a humble green salad into something special—with Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, it’s all about playing with color and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftovers in an airtight container and tuck them into the refrigerator. Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes stay fresh for up to four days, making them easy to enjoy throughout the week—toss a spoonful onto your lunch salad or grain bowl whenever you need a flavor boost.
Freezing
To make your batch last even longer, spread cooled roasted tomatoes in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep happily in the freezer for up to three months. While the texture may soften, they’re absolutely delicious stirred into sauces, soups, or stews.
Reheating
If you’d like to enjoy the tomatoes warm, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Just stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Their flavor only intensifies after sitting, so leftovers might be even tastier!
FAQs
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Grape tomatoes roast beautifully and deliver a similar juicy, sweet-tart flavor. Just halve them like you would cherry tomatoes and proceed with the recipe—your Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes will still taste fantastic.
What if I don’t have dried oregano?
No worries! Substitute with other dried Italian herbs, like thyme, basil, or a premade Italian seasoning blend. Each will infuse the tomatoes with its own delicious personality.
Are Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes good served cold?
Yes! These tomatoes might be even more flavorful when served chilled or at room temperature, making them perfect for summer salads or cold pasta dishes. Big bonus: their vibrant color and taste brighten up any meal, hot or cold.
Can I roast them ahead for a party?
Definitely. Roast up a big batch the day before, let them cool, and store in the fridge. Pop them out before serving and let them reach room temperature, or rewarm gently if you prefer them hot. They’re party-perfect either way.
What’s the best way to halve cherry tomatoes quickly?
Place a handful between two small, flat plates and carefully slice horizontally with a sharp knife. This trick lets you halve several tomatoes at once and makes prep for Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes faster than ever.
Final Thoughts
Give Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes a try and see how quickly they become a mealtime favorite. Whether you’re serving them as a side, a topping, or just enjoying them straight from the pan, their burst of sunshine flavor and effortless charm are hard to resist!
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Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
Enjoy the burst of flavors in these Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, a perfect side dish or appetizer with a Mediterranean flair. The sweetness of cherry tomatoes combines with the savory garlic and oregano, creating a delightful dish that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients
Cherry Tomatoes:
- 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Tomatoes: In a large bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast the Tomatoes: Spread the tomatoes cut side up in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired.
Notes
- These roasted tomatoes are perfect as a pasta topping, on crostini, or stirred into salads.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
