Irresistible Parmesan Baked Tomatoes Recipe to Savor

The aroma of roasted tomatoes, mingled with the nutty fragrance of melted Parmesan cheese, fills the air as you pull these beauties from the oven. Imagine slicing into a warm, juicy tomato, oozing with flavor and crispy on top—it’s an experience that makes your taste buds do a happy dance.

I still remember the first time I made Parmesan baked tomatoes for a picnic. I was trying to impress my friends with my culinary prowess. Spoiler alert: it worked! These vibrant gems became the star of our outdoor feast, and now they hold a special place in my heart. Whether as a side dish at dinner or a delightful snack while lounging on the patio, every bite promises pure bliss.

Ingredients for Parmesan Baked Tomatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Tomatoes: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes; vine-ripened varieties offer the best flavor.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works wonders for flavor and texture; avoid pre-grated versions if possible.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and helps cheese crisp perfectly.

• Garlic Powder: This adds a delightful depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic works too if you prefer.

• Dried Oregano: A sprinkle of oregano complements the tomatoes beautifully; feel free to adjust based on your taste.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate all flavors; use freshly cracked pepper for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Parmesan Baked Tomatoes

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab your favorite baking dish—something that makes you feel like a culinary rock star!

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Slice each tomato in half horizontally and scoop out some seeds if they look excessively juicy—nobody wants tomato soup on their plate! Place them cut-side up in your baking dish.

Step 3: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Give each tomato half a generous drizzle of olive oil. Don’t be shy; this is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Season Like a Pro

Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried oregano over the tomatoes. Then comes the pièce de résistance: a hearty grating of Parmesan cheese on top—just imagine how glorious this will be when it melts!

Step 5: Bake Away

Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown and bubbly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone clamoring for what’s cooking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let them cool just slightly (if you can resist). Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish—the choice is yours! These baked tomatoes are sure to steal the show!

Now that you know how to whip up these delicious Parmesan baked tomatoes, get ready to wow your family and friends at your next gathering. Trust me; they’ll be begging for seconds—and possibly even thirds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing your tomatoes in half and scooping out some of the insides. Next, mix your Parmesan with herbs and stuff the tomatoes. Finally, bake them until golden while you whip up a delicious side dish to accompany this masterpiece.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative or add some chopped olives for a salty kick. You can also sprinkle in some chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Parmesan baked tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy topping stays crispy.

I remember the first time I made these Parmesan baked tomatoes for my friends. Their reactions were priceless—eyes widening and forks hovering because they couldn’t wait to dig in!

FAQs :

What are Parmesan Baked Tomatoes?

Parmesan Baked Tomatoes are a delicious and healthy dish made by roasting fresh tomatoes topped with grated Parmesan cheese. The combination of juicy tomatoes and savory cheese creates a delightful flavor. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for a quick side dish or a light meal. You can use different varieties of tomatoes, but Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work best for baking. Enjoy them as part of a salad, alongside grilled meats, or even as a flavorful topping for crusty bread.

How do I make the best Parmesan Baked Tomatoes?

To create the best Parmesan Baked Tomatoes, start with ripe, high-quality tomatoes. Cut them in half and scoop out some seeds to concentrate the flavor. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs like basil or oregano before adding the Parmesan cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling. Serve immediately for optimal taste.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses when making Parmesan Baked Tomatoes. While Parmesan provides a unique flavor and texture, cheeses such as mozzarella or goat cheese can also work well. Mozzarella will give you that creamy stretchiness, while goat cheese adds a tangy twist. Feel free to mix different cheeses together for an exciting flavor profile while still keeping the essence of baked tomatoes intact.

What dishes pair well with Parmesan Baked Tomatoes?

Parmesan Baked Tomatoes complement various dishes beautifully. They serve as an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, beef, or turkey. You can also pair them with pasta dishes or grain bowls for added flavor and nutrition. For a lighter option, enjoy these baked tomatoes alongside a fresh garden salad or as a topping on bruschetta for an elegant appetizer at your next gathering.

Conclusion for Parmesan Baked Tomatoes :

In summary, Parmesan Baked Tomatoes are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. By using ripe tomatoes and quality cheese, you can create a delightful dish that pairs well with many meals. Remember to season appropriately and consider experimenting with different cheeses to enhance the flavors further. This recipe offers versatility whether served as a side dish or an appetizer. Enjoy your culinary creation!

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Parmesan Baked Tomatoes

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• Author: Laura Milligan
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Parmesan Baked Tomatoes are a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy roasted tomatoes with a crispy layer of melted Parmesan cheese. This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether served as a delectable side dish at dinner or a flavorful appetizer at gatherings. With vibrant colors and rich flavors, these baked tomatoes are sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make with minimal prep time, they provide a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish.
2. Slice each tomato in half horizontally and scoop out some seeds to prevent excess juiciness. Place cut-side up in the baking dish.
3. Drizzle each tomato half with olive oil.
4. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and oregano. Top generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and bubbly.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm as an appetizer or side dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tomato half (70g)
• Calories: 95
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Substitute fresh herbs like basil for oregano to enhance flavor. Experiment by using mozzarella for a creamier texture or goat cheese for added tang.