Cherry tomatoes with garlic and basil

Cherry Tomato Jar Recipe with Garlic and Basil

One of the most delightful gifts of summer is the abundant harvest of tomatoes, and this year, cherry tomatoes have been more delicious than ever. Whether you use them in fresh salads or cooked dishes, tomatoes are a versatile ingredient, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Canned tomatoes are an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer throughout the year, and this simple recipe for cherry tomatoes in jars, without salt and preservatives, will bring a touch of sunshine to your chilly winter days.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars of 500 ml

Necessary ingredients:

- 1.5 kg of fresh cherry tomatoes
- 12 cloves of garlic (2 cloves for each jar)
- Fresh basil leaves (about 1-2 leaves for each jar)
- Screw-top jars (between 6 and 8 jars of 500 ml)

Recipe history:
Canning tomatoes is an ancient tradition used for generations to preserve the taste of fresh tomatoes. This simple preservation method allows the flavors and nutrients to be retained, making them ideal for use in the cold season.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Wash the cherry tomatoes in cold water and remove the stems. Choose firm, ripe tomatoes, as these will provide better flavor and a pleasant texture.

2. Cut the tomatoes: Cut each cherry tomato in half. This will help release the juice and make it easier for the flavors to penetrate the tomatoes.

3. Fill the jars: Place the cut tomatoes in clean, dry jars. Gently press the tomatoes to eliminate any air pockets. Each jar should contain about 250 g of cherry tomatoes.

4. Add the garlic and basil: Add a few peeled garlic cloves to each jar, along with 1-2 fresh basil leaves. The garlic will add a delicious flavor while the basil will provide a fresh and fragrant taste.

5. Prepare the jars for boiling: Place the lids on the jars, ensuring they are tightly closed. Arrange the jars in a large pot, placing a few newspapers on the bottom to prevent direct contact with the bottom of the pot.

6. Boil the jars: Cover the jars with water and place the pot on the stove. Once the water begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and let the jars boil for 60 minutes. This boiling time will ensure optimal preservation of the tomatoes.

7. Cooling the jars: After 60 minutes, remove the jars from the water and let them cool slowly, covered with a blanket. This step is essential to create a vacuum in the jars, which helps with long-term preservation of the product.

8. Storage: Once completely cooled, store the jars in a dark, cool, and dry place. You can label each jar with the date and the ingredients used.

Practical tips:

- Choosing tomatoes: Only choose fresh, firm cherry tomatoes. Overripe tomatoes can lead to less successful preservation.
- Garlic: You can experiment with different types of garlic, such as purple garlic, which has a stronger flavor.
- Basil: If you don't have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, although the flavors won't be as intense.
- Jars: Ensure the jars are perfectly clean and sterilized to prevent any contamination risks.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This cherry tomato jar recipe is low in calories, with approximately 30-40 calories per serving. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants, which contribute to maintaining a healthy immune system and skin.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can use regular or larger tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes are ideal due to their size and sweet flavor.

2. How long can I keep the jars?
If stored properly, the jars can last up to 1 year.

3. Can I add other spices?
Sure! You can add spices like oregano or thyme to diversify the flavors.

The cherry tomato jar recipe with garlic and basil is an excellent way to enjoy the taste of summer every winter day. Whether you use them in sauces, salads, or as a side dish, these canned tomatoes will add a burst of flavor to every dish. Enjoy this delight and savor the flavors of summer all year round!