Cozy Parmesan Baked Tomatoes: A Simple Recipe for Comforting Family Dinners
As the seasons begin to change and the chill of autumn settles in, I find myself gravitating toward simple, comforting recipes that wrap me in warmth. One of my favorites is this incredibly easy and delightful recipe for Parmesan Baked Tomatoes. Memories of my grandmother’s garden floods back to me, where the sweetest, juiciest tomatoes grew sun-kissed, perfect for plucking right off the vine. Each bite of these roasted tomatoes brings me back to those blissful summer days, and the melted, golden crust of Parmesan cheese provides a delicious, indulgent touch that hugs the heart.
If you’re looking for a quick and delightful side dish for your easy weeknight dinner, these Parmesan Baked Tomatoes will soon have a special place in your recipe collection. Trust me; this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish!
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light meal.
- Family-friendly: Kids love the cheesy topping and natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Health-conscious: A great way to enjoy fresh vegetables with minimal effort.
- Flavor-packed: The rich, satisfying taste of roasted tomatoes topped with crispy Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Parmesan Baked Tomatoes
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delightful dish:
- 6 small tomatoes (halved)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pinch salt
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Let’s Make It Together
Here’s how to create these delicious, creamy Parmesan Baked Tomatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (207°C). The warmth of the oven will soon fill your kitchen with dreamy aromas!
- Rinse the tomatoes under cool water, then slice them in half. The vibrant colors will brighten your day!
- Toss the halved tomatoes gently in a mixing bowl with olive oil, allowing the rich flavor to coat them evenly.
- Season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper to taste. This simple seasoning will elevate the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Arrange the seasoned tomatoes in a baking dish, cut side up. Feel free to squeeze them in; they’ll cozy up just fine!
- Top each tomato with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Watch as each tomato gets a little makeover!
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese is melted and slightly browned. The heavenly scent will have everyone rushing to the table!
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately, allowing your family to savor this gooey delight together.
Delicious Variations to Try
Though this recipe is heavenly as-is, here are some fun twists you might adore:
- Herb-Infused: Sprinkle on some fresh basil or oregano before baking for an aromatic twist.
- Zesty Addition: Add finely chopped garlic or red pepper flakes for a zesty kick.
- Nutty Flavor: Combine the Parmesan with some crushed breadcrumbs for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Balsamic Drizzle: Before serving, drizzle with a touch of balsamic reduction for a tangy finish that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Here are my best kitchen secrets to ensure perfect Parmesan Baked Tomatoes every time:
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the tomatoes and store them in the fridge for up to an hour before baking. Just add a few minutes to the roasting time.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to mix in different cheeses, like mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor profile.
- Storing Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They still taste great reheated!
- Slicing Tricks: To prevent the tomatoes from toppling over, slice a small amount off the bottom of each tomato to create a stable base.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 Tomato Half
- Calories: 60
- Carbs: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 90mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare the tomatoes and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Try using different cheese or adding breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- How long does it last? These baked tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for a few days in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Baked Tomatoes are a simple yet heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of home and comfort. Their golden, cheesy tops and tender, juicy interiors are bound to win hearts at your dinner table. Don’t forget to save this Parmesan Baked Tomatoes to your cozy recipes board, so you’ll always have this comforting treat ready for when you need a little warmth in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!
Parmesan Baked Tomatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 small small tomatoes (halved)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pinch salt
- to taste Ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (207°C).
- Rinse the tomatoes under cool water and slice them in half.
- Toss the halved tomatoes in a mixing bowl with olive oil.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and ground black pepper.
Cooking
- Arrange the seasoned tomatoes in a baking dish, cut side up.
- Top each tomato with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
