Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Balsamic Roasted Plum Tomatoes?
They are succulent plum tomatoes roasted with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic until tender and caramelized, inspired by the Barefoot Contessa.
What is the recommended oven temperature for roasting these tomatoes?
The oven should be preheated to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius) for optimal roasting.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
Line your sheet pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
How should the tomatoes be arranged on the pan?
Place the halved plum tomatoes on the pan in a single layer with the cut sides facing upward.
What ingredients are in the balsamic glaze mixture?
The mixture consists of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper.
How long do the tomatoes need to roast?
Roast the tomatoes for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are tender and starting to caramelize.
Should the tomatoes be served hot or cold?
These roasted tomatoes can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 5 servings.
Do I need to remove the seeds from the plum tomatoes?
Yes, for the best results, the tomatoes should be halved lengthwise with the cores and seeds removed.
What type of vinegar is used in this recipe?
Balsamic vinegar is used to add a sweet and tangy flavor to the roasted tomatoes.
Is there sugar in this recipe?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of sugar are included to help enhance the natural sweetness and aid in caramelization.
Can I use these tomatoes as a topping?
Absolutely, they are excellent as a topping for salads, pastas, or served as a standalone side dish.
Who is the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa.
What kind of garlic should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 large garlic cloves, which should be minced before being added to the oil and vinegar mixture.
How do I know when the tomatoes are finished roasting?
The tomatoes are done when they appear concentrated, tender, and show signs of caramelization.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy cooking and focuses on simple, fresh ingredients like tomatoes and olive oil.
How many plum tomatoes do I need?
The recipe requires 12 plum tomatoes, halved and prepared.
Can I use regular table salt instead of kosher salt?
The recipe specifies 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt for the best flavor profile.
What is the preparation method for the garlic?
The garlic should be minced to ensure even distribution of flavor across the tomatoes.
What are some common tags for this recipe?
Common tags include roasted tomatoes, balsamic, mediterranean flavor, and easy recipes.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of olive oil.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It has a rich, caramelized flavor that balances sweetness from the sugar and tomatoes with the tang of balsamic vinegar.
Is this a Mediterranean-style dish?
Yes, it is tagged with Mediterranean flavor due to the use of olive oil, garlic, and roasted vegetables.
Can I prepare this recipe for a summer gathering?
Yes, these tomatoes are ideal for summer gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Should the tomatoes be cooled before serving?
It is recommended to allow them to cool slightly after removing them from the oven before serving.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Vegetable dish.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper.
Do I need to whisk the dressing before drizzling?
Yes, you should whisk the oil, vinegar, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well blended.
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
Plum tomatoes are specifically used because of their shape and texture when roasted.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe, involving simple preparation and a single roasting step.