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If you're looking for an easy way to transform fresh cherry tomatoes into something extraordinary, this honey roasted cherry tomatoes recipe is about to become your new favorite. With just five simple ingredients and 40 minutes, you'll create golden, caramelized roasted tomatoes that are bursting with sweet and savory flavor. Perfect for topping bruschetta, tossing with pasta, or serving alongside your favorite proteins, these oven roasted cherry tomatoes with honey are as versatile as they are delicious.
A Garden-to-Table Discovery
My friend Joyce Wallace, who I mention often in this blog, grows the most incredible heirloom cherry tomatoes from seed. During my last visit to her garden, the vines were overflowing with tomatoes in every color imaginable - deep reds, sunny yellows, rich purples, and vibrant oranges. The rainbow of colors against the green foliage was simply breathtaking.
As I admired these beautiful little gems, I wondered: what could I create that could highlight their natural sweetness while adding an unexpected twist? The answer? Honey roasted cherry tomatoes - a simple recipe that transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary.
Why Roasted Cherry Tomatoes?
Don't let their size fool you. Cherry tomatoes pack incredible flavor, and when slow-roasted, they become even sweeter and more concentrated. The heat of the oven breaks down the cell walls, releasing natural sugars and juices while the excess moisture evaporates. This creates a richer, more intense tomato flavor with a delightful jammy consistency that you simply can't achieve any other way.
The addition of honey takes these roasted tomatoes to the next level, adding golden caramelization and a subtle floral sweetness that balances perfectly with the tomatoes' natural acidity. If you're new to cooking with honey, this recipe is the perfect place to start.
How to Make Honey Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Bee Inspired Honey
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh thyme leaves or dried herbs de Provence
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the pan: Lightly oil a roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet.
- Prep the tomatoes: Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them cut-side up in the pan. Arrange them snugly with little or no space between them for the best caramelization.
- Make the glaze: Crush the garlic with a pinch of salt, then mix it with the Bee Inspired Honey, olive oil, and a good grinding of pepper. If using herbs, add them to this mixture.
- Coat and roast: Spoon the sticky, garlicky honey mixture over the tomatoes, ensuring each half gets coated. Roast for 30-35 minutes, until the tomatoes are golden, juicy, and bubbling around the edges.
- Cool slightly before serving. The flavors intensify as they cool to room temperature.
Serving Suggestions Beyond the Basics
These honey roasted cherry tomatoes are incredibly versatile. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy them:
As an Appetizer
- Honey Roasted Tomato Bruschetta: Pile the roasted tomatoes on toasted baguette slices, top with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze
- With Burrata: Serve alongside creamy burrata cheese with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt
- Crostini: Spread goat cheese on toasted bread, top with warm roasted tomatoes
As a Main Dish Component
- Over Pasta: Toss with angel hair pasta, pine nuts, fresh basil, and cubed chicken or turkey
- On Grain Bowls: Add to farro or quinoa salads with feta cheese and arugula
- With Proteins: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or baked honey mustard chicken
- Flatbread Topping: Use as a pizza or flatbread topping with mozzarella and fresh herbs
Creative Uses
- Blend into Sauce: Puree the roasted tomatoes for a rich pasta or pizza sauce
- Salad Topper: Add warmth and depth to green salads or grain-based salads
- Sandwich Spread: Mash slightly and use as a spread for sandwiches or wraps
- Mixed into Risotto: Fold into creamy risotto just before serving
- Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, drizzle homemade hot honey over the finished roasted tomatoes
Looking for a savory brunch idea? Serve these roasted tomato bruschetta alongside your favorite honey breakfast recipes for an elegant morning spread.
Tips for Perfect Oven Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Choose the Right Tomatoes: Look for ripe, firm cherry tomatoes. A mix of colors makes for a beautiful presentation.
Don't Overcrowd: Arrange tomatoes snugly but in a single layer. This ensures even roasting and proper caramelization.
Watch the Heat: If your tomatoes start to brown too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly. You want golden caramelization, not burnt edges.
Let them Rest: Allow the roasted tomatoes to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors develop and prevents burning your mouth!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftover honey roasted tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They actually taste better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.
You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently before serving, or add them directly to hot dishes like soups and sauces.
Try using these roasted tomatoes in our American Chop Suey recipe
More Ways to Use Honey in Savory Cooking
Love using honey in savory dishes? You're not alone! Honey adds incredible depth and balance to all kinds of recipes beyond just desserts. Check out our honey BBQ sauce recipe for another delicious way to incorporate honey into your cooking.
For even more inspiration, browse our complete collection of healthy honey recipes featuring everything from main dishes to sides and condiments.
Why This Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe Works
There's something magical about transforming such simple ingredients into something so delicious. These honey roasted cherry tomatoes have become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope they become one in yours too. The beautiful thing about this recipe is its adaptability - feel free to experiment with different honey varieties from our collection or add your favorite herbs to make your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do roasted cherry tomatoes last?
Roasted cherry tomatoes will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve after a day or two, making them perfect for meal prep. The honey acts as a natural preservative, help maintaining freshness.
Can I freeze roasted tomatoes?
Yes! Roasted cherry tomatoes freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, or add them directly to hot dishes like soups, stews, and sauces while still frozen.
What temperature should I roast tomatoes?
The ideal temperature for roasting cherry tomatoes is 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the tomatoes to caramelize slowly without burning, creating that perfect golden, jammy consistency. If you notice they're browning too quickly, reduce the heat to 350°F.
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
While this recipe is optimized for cherry tomatoes, you can use larger tomatoes cut into wedges. Roma or plum tomatoes work well. Keep in mind that larger tomatoes contain more moisture and may need an additional 10-15 minutes of roasting time to achieve the same concentrated flavor.
Do I have to use honey or can I substitute sugar?
Honey is key to this recipe's unique flavor profile and caramelization. While you could technically ise maple syrup or agave as alternatives, we don't recommend substituting granulated sugar as it won't create the same sticky glaze or depth of flavor that raw honey provides.
What kind of honey works best for roasted tomatoes?
Any variety of raw honey works beautifully, but lighter honeys like Wildflower or Sunflower allow the tomato flavor to shine through, while darker honeys like Buckwheat add more robust, earthy notes. Experiment with different honey varieties from our raw Eastern Shore Honey collection to find your favorite combination.
Can I make these roasted tomatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roasted cherry tomatoes are perfect for meal prep. Make them up to 5 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. They're delicious served cold, at room temperature, or gently reheated. Many people find they taste even better the next day.
What if I don't have fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but you can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder in a pinch. Add it directly to the honey and oil mixture. For even more depth, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, mellower garlic flavor.
Related Recipes You'll Love
- Honey BBQ Sauce - Sweet and tangy sauce perfect for grilling
- Hot Honey - Add some heat to your honey
- More Healthy Honey Recipes - Browse our full collection
