Dried tomatoes in olive oil

Dried tomatoes in olive oil: A simple and always handy delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 800 g of dried tomatoes (one large jar)

In the life of a cooking enthusiast, it is inevitable to face a bountiful harvest of tomatoes. Offering not only an explosion of flavor but also a palette of vibrant colors, tomatoes are a versatile ingredient. Today, I propose a simple and delicious recipe for dried tomatoes in olive oil, perfect for preserving the flavors of summer for the cold months. These tomatoes are not just a wonderful ingredient in salads, pasta, or sauces, but also a little treasure you can enjoy on toasted bread or in various dishes.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg cherry tomatoes (or other small, meaty types)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (fresh, for an intense flavor)
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (choose a high-quality variety)
- Salt and pepper to taste (sea salt or pink salt for a special note)
- Dried basil (about 2-3 tablespoons)

Step by step in preparing dried tomatoes:

1. Selecting and preparing the tomatoes: Choose ripe and healthy tomatoes; the small ones are ideal for achieving a concentrated texture of flavor. Wash them well under a stream of cold water, then let them drain or wipe them with a clean towel to remove excess water.

2. Cutting the tomatoes: If the tomatoes are small, cut them in half. If you opt for larger tomatoes, cut them into quarters. This step will allow moisture to evaporate more easily during baking.

3. Preparing the tray: Grease a tray with a thin layer of olive oil. Place the tomatoes cut side up, making sure they do not overlap. This arrangement will help with even drying.

4. Seasoning: Drizzle the tomatoes with a little olive oil, add salt and pepper to taste. The oil will contribute not only to flavor but also to preservation.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to a low temperature (about 90-100°C). Place the tray in the oven and let the tomatoes dry for 3-4 hours. Check them from time to time; ideally, they should become dry but not completely dehydrated. It is important to adjust the baking time depending on the size of the tomatoes and your desire for a softer or crunchier texture.

6. Packing in jars: Once the tomatoes are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Prepare a sterilized jar and layer the tomatoes, interspersing with pieces of garlic and dried basil. These flavors will infuse, giving a more intense taste.

7. Filling with oil: Leave a finger's space above the tomatoes and pour olive oil until they are completely covered. The oil will not only preserve the tomatoes but will also absorb their flavors.

8. Preservation: If you want to keep the tomatoes longer, sterilize the jars either in the oven or by boiling in water. Otherwise, you can keep them in the fridge and consume them within a few weeks.

Serving suggestions and combinations:

Dried tomatoes in olive oil are incredibly versatile. You can use them in fresh salads, pasta sauces, pizza, or even on a toast with goat cheese. An excellent combination is with basil pesto, where the dried tomatoes provide a perfect contrast to the fresh flavors of basil.

Nutritional benefits:

Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, vitamin K, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Olive oil brings healthy fats that are beneficial for the heart. So, these dried tomatoes not only delight your taste buds but also contribute to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use larger tomatoes? Yes, but make sure to cut them into quarters to facilitate drying.

- Can I add other spices? Absolutely! You can experiment with oregano, thyme, or chili to add a spicy note.

- How can I use the leftover oil? The flavored oil can be used for dressings, marinades, or cooking.

Possible variations:

You can add slices of chili pepper or olives for a mix of flavors. You can also try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the oil for a more complex taste.

These dried tomatoes in olive oil are an excellent way to keep the taste of summer in every jar. So, don’t wait any longer! Start preparing this delicacy today and enjoy dried tomatoes all year round.