These are no ordinary tomatoes; garlic and herb tomatoes transform under the magic of a slow roast, going from humble vine fruits to flavour-packed gems that elevate any meal they grace.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients — garlic, oregano, black pepper, olive oil, and vine tomatoes — the flavours shine through. The slow roasting process coaxes out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, intensifying their flavour and creating a caramelised, slightly tangy profile that’s irresistible. Each bite delivers a burst of umami, punctuated by the warmth of garlic and the earthy aroma of oregano.
This dish is the epitome of versatility. Imagine a Sunday morning breakfast spread, where these slow-roasted tomatoes sit alongside crusty bread and creamy scrambled eggs. Their robust flavour adds depth to the meal, transforming it into something truly memorable. For lunch, pair them with fresh mozzarella or ricotta, drizzling the juices left in the pan over the top. It’s simple yet luxurious.
Dinner offers even more possibilities. Garlic and Herb Tomatoes make a stunning addition to pasta, their rich juices mingling with al dente spaghetti to create a rustic sauce. Alternatively, serve them as a side dish to roasted chicken or grilled fish; their acidity cuts through the richness of the protein, creating a harmonious balance.
There’s also a sensory delight in preparing this dish. The aroma of garlic and oregano wafting through the kitchen as the tomatoes roast is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The visual transformation is equally satisfying, as the tomatoes wrinkle and their edges darken slightly, promising an explosion of concentrated flavour.
What’s more, this dish is forgiving and adaptable. Fancy a hint of heat? Add a pinch of chilli flakes. Prefer a touch of freshness? Toss in some fresh basil just before serving. Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a dinner party, slow-roasted garlic and herb tomatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
So next time you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare yet delivers on flavour, give these slow-roasted tomatoes a try. They’re proof that the simplest ingredients, when treated with care, can create something extraordinary.
Garlic and Herb Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 6 cloves garlic crushed
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 pinches ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil plus a little extra to oil a baking tray
- 4 large vine tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 150°C/ gas 2. Mix the garlic, oregano, pepper and olive oil, crushing it all together with the back of a spoon.6 cloves garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 pinches ground black pepper, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Cut the tomatoes in half through the middle (equator). Then – with the tomatoes cut side up – make a few cuts into the centre of each half, being careful not to pierce through to the skin.4 large vine tomatoes
- Divide the garlic mixture between the tomatoes, gently pushing it into the flesh.
- Place on a lightly oiled baking sheet and bake in the over for 1 hour.
11 comments
I fancied a late breakfast today and tried these on toast. Totally and utterly amazing.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of character, the Slow Roasted Garlic and Herb Tomatoes are perfect.
I tried the Slow Roasted Garlic and Herb Tomatoes recently, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best ways to showcase the humble tomato.
The roasting process really concentrates the tomato’s flavours.
This dish is a wonderful addition to any meal, from a light starter to a robust side dish.
A simple yet flavour-packed side.
I’d definitely recommend it for anyone who loves the simplicity of fresh, quality ingredients.
These Slow Roasted Garlic and Herb Tomatoes were absolutely fantastic! The slow roasting really brings out the sweetness in the tomatoes, and the garlic and oregano give it a warm, comforting aroma.
It’s a versatile dish that can be served with virtually anything, but it’s especially delicious with grilled meats or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
The tomatoes become tender and packed with flavour, with the garlic providing an irresistible aromatic hit. The herbs are balanced, and the olive oil ensures they don’t dry out.
The slow roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the vine tomatoes, while the garlic and oregano add a fragrant depth to every bite.