Savory Middle Eastern Tomato Medley
Indulge in a delightful Mediterranean-inspired breakfast with this Savory Middle Eastern Tomato Medley. This dish features tender, sautéed tomatoes and onions brought to life with spices and fresh herbs. It's a comforting and warm dish, perfect for starting your day on a flavorful note. Traditionally enjoyed with pita bread or served alongside a variety of cheeses and olives, this recipe captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine and brings a touch of harmony to your breakfast table. Easy to prepare and bursting with freshness, it’s a dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (For cooking)
Cooking onion
1 medium (Chopped)
Fresh tomatoes
5 plum (Chopped)
Sea salt
To taste (For seasoning)
Fresh ground black pepper
To taste (For seasoning)
Sweet butter
1 tablespoon (optional) (For added flavor)
Fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons (optional) (Chopped)
Unrefined extra virgin olive oil
Drizzle (For finishing)
Pita bread
For serving (Warm)
Instructions
1
In a frying pan, heat about 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat. Adjust the quantity of oil based on the number of servings you are preparing.
2
Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until it becomes translucent and soft. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as you want a mild sweetness.
3
Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pan, stirring well to combine. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4
Increase the heat to medium-high and cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Use a spatula to gently squash the tomatoes, allowing them to release their juices while maintaining a chunky texture.
5
If desired, add sweet butter and fresh chopped cilantro toward the end of the cooking process, cooking for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
6
Transfer the tomato medley to a shallow serving bowl and drizzle with unrefined extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
7
Serve with warm pita bread and various sides such as olives, cheese, and, if you like, a side of eggs for a complete Middle Eastern breakfast experience. Enjoy your meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Middle Eastern Tomato Medley?
It is a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast dish featuring sautéed tomatoes and onions seasoned with fresh herbs and spices.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include vegetable oil, a cooking onion, plum tomatoes, sea salt, and fresh ground black pepper.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onion for about 3-4 minutes or until it becomes translucent and soft.
What type of tomatoes are best for this dish?
The recipe specifically calls for five fresh plum tomatoes.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, the base recipe is vegan as long as you omit the optional sweet butter.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the tomato medley itself is gluten-free; simply serve it with a gluten-free bread alternative instead of pita.
What is the purpose of squashing the tomatoes?
Squashing the tomatoes with a spatula allows them to release their juices while maintaining a desirable chunky texture.
When should I add the fresh cilantro?
Fresh chopped cilantro should be added toward the end of the cooking process to meld the flavors.
How do I finish the dish before serving?
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and drizzle it with unrefined extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
What should I serve with the tomato medley?
It is traditionally served with warm pita bread, olives, cheese, and optionally a side of eggs.
How much oil is needed for cooking?
The recipe suggests starting with approximately 2 tablespoons of cooking oil.
Can I add butter to the recipe?
Yes, adding one tablespoon of sweet butter toward the end is an optional step for extra flavor.
What heat setting should I use for the tomatoes?
Cook the tomato mixture on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes.
Should the onions be browned?
No, you should be careful not to let them brown too much to maintain a mild sweetness.
What kind of salt is recommended?
Sea salt is recommended to season the dish to taste.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is considered a quick and easy recipe suitable for a busy morning.
What type of onion should I use?
One medium cooking onion, chopped, is required for this recipe.
Can I use any type of olive oil?
The recipe recommends unrefined extra virgin olive oil for the final drizzle.
What is the texture of the final dish?
The dish has a chunky yet tender texture with plenty of natural juices from the tomatoes.
How many servings does this make?
The quantity can be adjusted based on the number of people, starting with 5 plum tomatoes as a base.
Can I add extra spices?
While the recipe uses salt and pepper, the Middle Eastern profile allows for various regional spice additions if desired.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
It is a comforting and warm dish intended to be served immediately after cooking.
Can I use dried cilantro?
Fresh cilantro is preferred for its brightness, but dried can be used in a pinch, though the flavor will differ.
Does the recipe require specific cooking equipment?
A standard frying pan and a spatula are all you need to prepare this dish.
Is this a healthy breakfast option?
Yes, it is a healthy choice featuring fresh vegetables and heart-healthy oils.
What makes this 'Middle Eastern'?
The combination of sautéed tomatoes, olive oil, and the tradition of serving with pita and olives reflects regional culinary styles.
Can I add garlic?
While not in the original ingredient list, garlic would be a common and compatible addition to the sautéed onions.
How do I warm the pita bread?
You can warm pita bread in a low oven, on a stovetop griddle, or briefly in a microwave.
What is the total cooking time?
The total cooking time is approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, though it is best enjoyed fresh.