Oven-roasted tomatoes with spices

Oven-Roasted Tomatoes with Spices

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of delicious flavors, where tomatoes become the stars of your meal! This simple and quick recipe for oven-roasted tomatoes with spices is perfect for adding a touch of freshness and flavor to your dishes. Baking tomatoes not only intensifies their aroma but also transforms them into an elegant side dish that can successfully accompany various meals.

A Bit of History
Tomatoes have a fascinating history, often regarded as an essential ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. In ancient times, tomatoes were viewed with suspicion, but once adopted by various cultures, they quickly gained popularity due to their sweet-tart taste and versatility in dishes. Today, tomatoes are loved worldwide, used in salads, sauces, or as side dishes, just as we will do today!

Ingredients
- 8 medium tomatoes (choose ripe, charming, and aromatic tomatoes)
- 4 cloves of garlic (for an extra flavor boost)
- 1 small bunch of fresh thyme (enriches the dish with aromas)
- 1 small bunch of fresh basil (a classic ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (for a perfect taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste (to enhance the flavors)

Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Start by washing the tomatoes well under cold running water, ensuring no impurities remain. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the tops off the tomatoes, being careful not to cut too deep, so you create a small "nest" for the filling.

2. Place the tomatoes in a baking dish, cut side up. This step is important because the tomatoes will bake evenly and absorb the flavors of the spices.

3. In a small bowl, crush the garlic with a press or knife until it becomes a paste. Add the crushed garlic on top of the tomatoes, distributing it evenly. Here, you can add a little more garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor.

4. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil. Use a kitchen brush to apply the oil evenly over the surface of the tomatoes, giving them a delicious glaze.

5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. It is essential to season well to bring out the flavors.

6. Add the fresh thyme and basil on top. If you have time, you can finely chop the basil and thyme to release their aromas better. These herbs will provide an irresistible fragrance to the dish.

7. Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat) and, once it reaches the desired temperature, place the dish with tomatoes in the oven.

8. Let the tomatoes bake for 20 minutes. You will notice how they soften and caramelize delicately, and the flavors will blend perfectly.

9. After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. The tomatoes will be ready to serve, with an intense aroma and a soft texture.

Serving Suggestions
Oven-roasted tomatoes with spices are excellent as a side dish for various meat dishes, such as chicken or fish. They can also be served alongside aromatic cheeses or even in sandwiches with prosciutto and mozzarella. Another delicious option is to add them to salads, bringing a touch of freshness and color.

Practical Tips
- Choose quality, ripe tomatoes, as their taste will significantly influence the final result.
- If you like a spicier taste, you can add chili flakes along with the garlic.
- You can experiment with other herbs, such as oregano or dill, to obtain a variation of flavors.
- Make sure not to leave the tomatoes in the oven for more than 20-25 minutes to avoid drying them out.

Nutritional Information
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folic acid. Regular consumption of tomatoes can contribute to heart health, having antioxidant effects. Olive oil, rich in healthy fats, can help reduce inflammation and protect cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
It is preferable to use fresh tomatoes; however, in their absence, canned tomatoes can be an alternative, provided you drain them well before use.

2. Can I prepare these tomatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tomatoes a few hours before serving. You can gently reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. What other dishes do they pair best with?
These tomatoes pair perfectly with meat dishes, but also with pasta, rice, or even as a topping for pizza.

I invite you to try this simple recipe for oven-roasted tomatoes with spices and enjoy a delicious dish that will bring a touch of freshness to your table! Enjoy your meal!