Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a Mediterranean delight that perfectly balances warmth and coolness! Our "Hot Charred Cherry Tomatoes with Cold Yogurt" recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that will leave your guests begging for more. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this stunning dish that combines the smoky sweetness of blistered cherry tomatoes with the creamy tang of yogurt, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Select a large, heavy-based oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan that can withstand high heat and transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Wash cherry tomatoes thoroughly and pat them completely dry using paper towels to ensure proper charring.
- Heat olive oil in the skillet over high heat until it's shimmering and just about to smoke.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the hot skillet in a single layer, allowing them to sizzle and char without moving them for 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven and roast for 5-7 minutes until tomatoes are blistered and slightly burst.
- While tomatoes are roasting, prepare the yogurt base by mixing plain yogurt with minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Once tomatoes are charred and soft, remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts.
- Spread the prepared yogurt mixture on a serving plate, creating a smooth base.
- Carefully transfer the hot charred tomatoes directly onto the yogurt base.
- Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves and an additional drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately while tomatoes are still hot and yogurt is cool, creating a delightful temperature contrast.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Their natural sweetness will enhance the dish beautifully when charred.
- Dry Thoroughly: Make sure to wash and pat the cherry tomatoes dry before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect char without steaming them.
- Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F (220°C) before roasting the tomatoes. This will help them blister and burst beautifully, enhancing their flavor.
- Use a Heavy Skillet: A heavy-based oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal for this recipe, as it retains heat well and promotes even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When adding the tomatoes to the skillet, ensure they are in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of charring.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the yogurt mixture, such as dill or a pinch of cayenne pepper, to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the dish right after assembling. The contrast between the hot tomatoes and cold yogurt creates a delightful sensation that shouldn't be missed!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
