Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish in this recipe?
The main dish is Herb-Infused Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, a vibrant and flavorful side or appetizer.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 200 °C (400 °F) for roasting the tomatoes.
How long do the tomatoes need to roast?
The tomatoes should be roasted for 20-30 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients: cherry tomatoes, rosemary, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and coarse sea salt.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
While dark balsamic vinegar provides the best flavor and color, you can use white balsamic or apple cider vinegar as a substitute.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, all the ingredients including tomatoes, rosemary, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 80 calories.
What is the best way to prepare the rosemary?
Chop the needles of two sprigs finely for the roasting mixture and keep the third sprig whole for garnishing.
Do I need to peel the cherry tomatoes?
No, the tomatoes should be halved but left unpeeled to maintain their shape during roasting.
What type of salt is recommended?
Coarse sea salt is recommended to provide a nice texture and flavor contrast.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, these roasted tomatoes can be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled as part of a salad.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
You can use honey, maple syrup, or a granulated sugar substitute if you prefer.
What kind of oil is best for roasting?
Olive oil is ideal for its flavor and high-quality fat content.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 6g of fat per serving, primarily from the olive oil.
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third of the amount of fresh rosemary since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Is this dish high in protein?
No, it contains approximately 0.5g of protein per serving as it is a vegetable-based side dish.
How do I know when the tomatoes are finished roasting?
The tomatoes are ready when they look soft, tender, and the skins have started to slightly caramelize.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Absolutely, adding minced garlic to the mixture before roasting would enhance the savory profile.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe is flexible, but it uses 1 kg of tomatoes which typically serves 4 to 6 people as a side.
Is it necessary to use an oven-proof dish?
Yes, an oven-proof dish or a rimmed baking sheet is necessary to contain the balsamic glaze and tomato juices.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, you can roast them in an air fryer at 200 degrees C for about 10-15 minutes, checking frequently.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What does the balsamic vinegar add to the dish?
The balsamic vinegar adds a rich tang and sweetness that creates a delicious glaze when roasted.
Is this dish suitable for a party?
Yes, it is tagged as party food and makes a beautiful and elegant appetizer for special occasions.
Can I use large tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
You can, but you would need to cut them into smaller chunks and the roasting time may vary.
Does this dish contain many carbohydrates?
Each serving contains 8g of carbohydrates, mostly from the natural sugars in the tomatoes and the added brown sugar.
How do I garnish the dish?
Garnish with a whole sprig of fresh rosemary for an impressive and aromatic finish.
What are the primary flavor notes of this dish?
The primary flavors are sweet, tangy, and earthy thanks to the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and rosemary.
Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe because it involves simple mixing and roasting.