Dried Cherry Tomato
Ingredients:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Dried herbs (such as basil, oregano, or thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C).
2. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet. Make sure to remove the stems if they are still attached.
3. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil. Use enough to lightly coat each tomato half.
4. Sprinkle salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs over the tomatoes. You can use a combination of herbs or stick to a single variety, depending on your taste preferences.
5. Toss the tomatoes gently to ensure that they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the tomatoes roast for about 2-3 hours. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and moisture content of the tomatoes.
7. Check the tomatoes regularly to prevent them from burning. They should be shriveled and slightly chewy when done.
8. Once the tomatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely.
9. Store the dried cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can be kept for several months.
How to Freeze Herb Roasted Cherry Tomatoes:
- Follow the steps 1-5 from the instructions above.
- Instead of roasting the tomatoes, place them on a baking sheet and transfer them to the freezer.
- Let the tomatoes freeze completely. This will take about 2-3 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the tomatoes to airtight freezer bags or containers.
- Store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.
How to Prepare:
- Dried Cherry Tomatoes:
These dried cherry tomatoes can be enjoyed as a snack on their own. They are also a delicious addition to salads, pasta dishes, or even as a topping for pizzas.
- Frozen Herb Roasted Cherry Tomatoes:
To use the frozen cherry tomatoes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. They can be added to sauces, soups, or stews for an extra burst of flavor. You can also use them in recipes that call for roasted tomatoes.
Preparation Time:
Preparation time may vary depending on the number of cherry tomatoes you are working with. However, the total time for drying or freezing the tomatoes is approximately 2-3 hours.
Servings:
This recipe does not specify a specific number of servings, as it can be customized based on your needs. However, a handful of dried cherry tomatoes or a few roasted tomatoes can typically serve one person. Adjust the quantities as desired.
Nutrition Facts:
- Dried Cherry Tomatoes:
Due to the dehydration process, the nutritional content of dried cherry tomatoes may be slightly different from fresh tomatoes. However, they still retain many of the same nutrients, including vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.
- Frozen Herb Roasted Cherry Tomatoes:
The freezing process does not significantly alter the nutritional content of the tomatoes. Therefore, they still provide the same benefits as fresh tomatoes, including being a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Tips:
- It’s important to choose ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to create unique flavor combinations.
- Consider adding a pinch of sugar to the tomatoes before roasting to enhance their natural sweetness.
- If you have a surplus of cherry tomatoes, this recipe is a great way to preserve them and enjoy their delicious flavor all year round.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use other types of tomatoes for this recipe?
A: While this recipe specifically calls for cherry tomatoes, you can certainly experiment with other tomato varieties. However, keep in mind that larger tomatoes may require longer cooking times.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones. Just adjust the quantities to suit your taste.
Q: Can I store the roasted tomatoes in the refrigerator instead of freezing them?
A: Yes, you can store the roasted tomatoes in the refrigerator for a few days. However, freezing will help extend their shelf life.
Q: Can I use frozen cherry tomatoes directly in my recipes?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cherry tomatoes directly in your recipes without thawing them. They will defrost and cook quickly during the cooking process.
Enjoy the vibrant flavor and versatility of dried and frozen herb roasted cherry tomatoes!
