Get ready to transform ordinary tomatoes into a mouthwatering culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Italian-inspired roasted tomato dish is not just a recipe; it's a sensory experience that combines the sweetness of caramelized tomatoes, the bold punch of gorgonzola cheese, and the aromatic magic of fresh herbs. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or elevate your weeknight meal, these roasted tomatoes are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help caramelize the tomatoes and create a rich, roasted flavor.
- Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and cut them in half horizontally. Place them cut-side up on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the tomato halves, ensuring each is lightly coated. This will help promote even roasting and prevent sticking.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly across the tomato surfaces, distributing it as uniformly as possible.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use a light hand to enhance the natural tomato flavor without overpowering it.
- Crumble the gorgonzola cheese and distribute it generously over each tomato half, allowing some pieces to sit on top and some to melt into the tomato.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. The tomatoes should become soft, slightly charred at the edges, and the cheese should be melted and golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the roasted tomatoes for a burst of fresh herb flavor.
- Let the tomatoes rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to set slightly.
- Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course, optionally accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the delicious roasted juices.
Tips
- Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best roasting results. Roma or beefsteak varieties work exceptionally well.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each tomato halve enough space to roast evenly.
- For a more intense flavor, let the tomatoes sit with salt for 10 minutes before roasting to draw out excess moisture.
- If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, use aged gorgonzola; for a creamier texture, choose a younger variety.
- Fresh herbs are key - try experimenting with thyme or oregano alongside basil for different flavor dimensions.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature, as the cheese and tomatoes are most delicious when fresh from the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 166kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
