Tomato dish

Tomato dish, a simple and quick delight, is a recipe that pleases both the taste and the eye. This dish is perfect for days when you want to enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Tomatoes, in particular, are a versatile ingredient, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them ideal for a healthy diet. This recipe will not only bring a savory dish to your table but will also fill the air in your kitchen with an inviting aroma of fresh tomatoes and sautéed onions.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 10 ripe tomatoes (preferably seasonal for a more intense flavor)
- 3 large onions
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup of water
- (Optional) 1 teaspoon of brown sugar if the tomatoes are too sour

A bit of history:
The tomato dish is a recipe that combines culinary tradition with the simplicity of basic ingredients. Over time, tomatoes have been used in countless dishes, from sauces to soups, appreciated not only for their flavor but also for their nutritional benefits. This simple tomato dish recipe can be adapted according to the season and personal preferences, providing a delicious base that can accompany various main courses.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the tomatoes: Start by peeling the tomatoes. If they are too firm, you can blanch them for a few minutes in boiling water to soften the skin. After peeling, cut them into small cubes. Choose well-ripened tomatoes for an intense flavor.

2. Preparing the onions: Peel and wash the onion thoroughly. Chop the onion finely, ensuring the pieces are uniform so they sauté evenly. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can opt for sweet onions.

3. Sautéing the onions: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and starts to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

4. Adding the tomatoes: Once the onion is sautéed, add the tomato cubes to the pot along with a cup of water. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer over medium heat, covering the pot with a lid, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce starts to thicken. This process will take about 15-20 minutes.

5. Seasoning: After the sauce has reduced to the desired consistency, adjust the salt and pepper to taste. If the tomatoes are too sour, add a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity. Mix well to incorporate the sugar.

6. Finishing the dish: When the tomato dish is ready, add the chopped fresh parsley. This will add a touch of freshness and flavor to your dish.

7. Serving: You can serve the tomato dish as is or as a side for a main course, such as pork neck in a bag, alongside roasted peppers drizzled with garlic sauce. This combination will turn any meal into a true feast of flavors. The tomato dish can also be enjoyed with fresh bread or rice.

Useful tips:
- Choosing tomatoes: Opt for seasonal tomatoes, the most aromatic and juicy. Cherry tomatoes or Romanian varieties are excellent options.
- Final taste: Play with the spices! You can add fresh basil or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the dish.
- Cooling and storage: If you have leftover tomato dish, you can store it in the fridge in a well-sealed container for 2-3 days.

Frequently asked questions:
- What can I do if the tomatoes are too sour? Add a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the taste.
- How can I turn this recipe into a soup? Add more water and blend everything with a blender, then serve with croutons.
- Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, but the taste will be different. Adjust the spices according to your preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. They contain powerful antioxidants, such as lycopene, which help protect the body against diseases. This dish is low in calories, making it ideal for those who want to eat healthily.

Enjoy your meal! I hope this tomato dish recipe becomes one of your favorites and brings joy and flavor to your daily meals. Don't forget to share it with friends and family!