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A Garden-to-Table Journey
My friend, Joyce Wallace, who I mention here in the blog often, is a fantastic gardener, and she grows the most delicious heirloom cherry tomatoes from seed in every color imaginable - deep reds, sunny yellows, rich purples, and vibrant oranges. On my last visit to her garden, the summer tomatoes on Joyce's vines were ripening quickly, and I couldn't help but notice their deep red hue as the sun reflected off them. The rainbow of colors against the green foliage was simply breathtaking.
Who would have known these small orbs could be transformed into such a delicious creation? What I had in mind was something that combined the sweetness of honey with earthy roasted cherry tomatoes. To my delight, it turned out better than I could imagine – sweet yet slightly salty flavor bursts that tantalize your taste buds in every bite!
The Magic of Cherry Tomatoes
Don't let the size of cherry tomatoes fool you into thinking there isn't much to appreciate. These little gems are bursting with flavor and sweet as honey naturally. When slow-roasted, cherry tomatoes caramelize and become even sweeter than they are when raw, developing complex flavors with a delightful concentration of umami.
The intense heat of roasting breaks down the cell walls of the tomatoes, releasing their natural sugars and juices while evaporating excess moisture. This process creates a richer, more concentrated tomato flavor that simply can't be achieved any other way.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Did you know that tomatoes are nutritional superstars? They contain beneficial nutrients and antioxidants and are a rich source of:
- Vitamins A and C
- Folic acid
- Biotin
- Molybdenum
- Vitamin K
They're also an excellent source of:
- Copper
- Potassium
- Manganese
- Dietary fiber
- Beta-carotene
- Vitamin B6
- Folate
- Niacin
- Vitamin E
- Phosphorus
The lycopene in tomatoes, which gives them their red color, is actually more bioavailable when tomatoes are cooked – making these roasted cherry tomatoes not just delicious, but extra nutritious too!
Versatility in the Kitchen
If you're looking for an easy-to-make side dish or appetizer, look no further: Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Honey is just what you need. But their usefulness doesn't end there! These versatile little flavor bombs can elevate nearly any dish:
- Serve them on farro salad with a sprinkle of tangy goat cheese
- Create an elegant honey-roasted cherry tomato bruschetta on a fresh baguette
- Toss them into angel hair pasta with pine nuts, freshly chopped basil, and cubed smoked turkey for a satisfying summer supper
- Add them to a veggie salad to create a layer of flavor that will amaze and impress your guests
- Pair them as a side dish with baked honey mustard chicken for an irresistible flavor combination
- Blend them into a rich, flavorful sauce for grilled meats or roasted vegetables
- Serve them alongside a creamy burrata with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a simple yet elegant appetizer
How to Make Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Honey
Ingredients:
- 2 pints fresh cherry tomatoes (preferably a colorful mix of varieties)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons high-quality honey
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried herbs de Provence
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly oil a roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet.
- Halve the tomatoes and place them cut-side up in the pan. They should fit snugly with little or no space between them.
- Crush the garlic with a pinch of salt, then beat it with honey, olive oil, and a good grinding of pepper. If using herbs, add them to this mixture.
- Spoon this sticky, garlicky mixture over the tomatoes, ensuring each half gets a bit of the goodness.
- Roast for about 30 minutes until golden, juicy, and bubbling.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving, as the flavors intensify as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
These tomatoes are superb whether served hot or cold. Their sweet and tangy flavor profile makes them incredibly versatile. I like to finish them with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and perhaps a few fresh basil leaves when they're available.
For an extra special touch, try drizzling a little aged balsamic vinegar over the roasted tomatoes just before serving. The acidity cuts through the sweetness perfectly and adds another dimension to the dish.
Storage Tips
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers (which rarely happens in my house!), these roasted tomatoes will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They actually improve in flavor after a day or two as the flavors meld together.
You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently before serving, or add them directly to soups and sauces while still frozen.
Final Thoughts
Fire up your ovens and get ready to enjoy this tasty yet healthy treat! The beautiful thing about this recipe is its simplicity and adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different varieties of honey or add additional herbs and spices to make it your own.
There's something deeply satisfying about transforming such humble ingredients into something so spectacular. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine!
What's your favorite way to enjoy cherry tomatoes? I'd love to hear your ideas in the comments below!
