Roasted Tomatoes Recipe

By
Colleen Graham
Photo of Colleen Graham
Colleen Graham
Freelance writer and cocktail book author Colleen Graham is a seasoned mixologist who loves sharing her knowledge of spirits and passion for preparing drinks.
Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process
Updated on 07/25/22
Tested by
Diana Rattray
Diana Rattray
Tested by Diana Rattray
Southern-cuisine expert and cookbook author Diana Rattray has created more than 5,000 recipes and articles in her 20 years as a food writer.
Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process
roasted tomatoes on a lined baking sheet

The Spruce/Bahareh Niati

Prep: 5 mins
Cook: 20 mins
Total: 25 mins
Servings: 6 servings
Yield: 6 tomatoes

Roasted tomatoes take just minutes to prepare and a little time in the oven. The high heat and a few simple seasonings give them an excellent flavor, creating an ideal side dish for steaks, roasts, pork, chicken, and several vegetarian mains. You can also add the tomatoes to pasta dishes and salads or use them as a pizza topping.

This roasted tomato recipe uses plum tomatoes and works well for other varieties, from cherry tomatoes to heirlooms and beefsteaks. You'll need to cook smaller tomatoes for less time and larger tomatoes a bit longer. For most, there's no need to core the tomatoes, as the center softens up wonderfully. Instead, simply cut them in half and season them as directed for a flavor enhancement that ensures each bite tastes amazing.

Make as many tomatoes as you need. They keep well for a few days, and though you'll lose some of that freshly roasted texture, they can be frozen and incorporated into recipes. The roasted tomato flavor is an excellent addition to tomato-based sauces like marinara and soups.

"The roasted tomatoes were perfectly seasoned and delicious. For firmer roasted tomatoes, check them after about 20 minutes. Mine were soft and well-cooked after 25 minutes, and the flavors were excellent. They made a tasty side dish and would be a nice addition to pasta or steamed green beans." —Diana Rattray

Roasted Tomatoes Recipe/Tester Image
A Note From Our Recipe Tester

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

  • 1 medium clove garlic, minced

  • 6 medium plum tomatoes

  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, more to taste

  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste

Steps to Make It

  1. Gather the ingredients.

    Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat to 450 F.

    ingredients to make roasted tomatoes

    The Spruce/Bahareh Niati

  2. In a small bowl, combine the oil, vinegar, and garlic. Set aside to let the garlic infuse the liquids while you prepare the tomatoes.

    oil and spice mixture in a bowl

    The Spruce/Bahareh Niati

  3. Cut the tomatoes in half lengthwise. Line a medium rimmed baking sheet with foil. Put the tomatoes in the pan, cut side up.

    roma tomatoes sliced in half on a foil lined baking sheet

    The Spruce/Bahareh Niati

  4. Drizzle the garlic-infused vinegar and oil evenly over the tops of the tomatoes. Season with pepper and salt to taste.

    roasted tomatoes on a foil lined baking sheet

    The Spruce/Bahareh Niati

  5. Roast until the tomatoes are tender and golden in places, 20 to 30 minutes.

    roasted tomatoes on a foiled lined baking sheet

    The Spruce/Bahareh Niati

Tips

  • Plum and cherry tomatoes don't require any extra prep work. If you're using other tomatoes, remove the top before cutting it in half and remove any tougher core pieces. You can also remove the seeds, if you like.
  • To make ahead, season the tomatoes in a covered dish, then refrigerate until ready to roast.
  • Use a metal pan as most glass and ceramic bakeware cannot handle the high temperature.

Recipe Variations

  • Skip the vinegar entirely, or switch to red wine or an aged vinegar.
  • Some really acidic tomatoes could use a little sweetener, so sprinkle a bit of sugar on top.
  • Add dried or finely chopped fresh herbs before roasting. Classic choices include basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley. Tender herbs are also a nice finishing touch once the tomatoes are out of the oven.
  • Add just a bit of cayenne or crushed red pepper for a kick of heat.

How to Store and Freeze

  • Once cool, refrigerate the tomatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 400 F oven for about 10 minutes.
  • To freeze, place the cooled tomatoes in a single layer on a plastic-lined sheet pan, Freeze until solid. Remove from the pan and store in a zip-top freezer bag or container, and use within six months.

How Can I Use Roasted Tomatoes?

Roasted tomatoes can be served as a side dish or added to other dishes for a pop of color and flavor. Here are a few great ideas:

Nutrition Facts (per serving)
45 Calories
3g Fat
5g Carbs
1g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Amount per serving
Calories 45
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 3g 3%
Saturated Fat 0g 2%
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 59mg 3%
Total Carbohydrate 5g 2%
Dietary Fiber 2g 5%
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 1g
Vitamin C 17mg 85%
Calcium 14mg 1%
Iron 0mg 2%
Potassium 297mg 6%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.)