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Easy Oven Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Your Go-To Recipe for Flavorful Blistered Perfection

Discovering the simplest yet most delicious ways to enjoy fresh produce is a true culinary joy. This oven roasted cherry tomatoes recipe stands out as my absolute favorite, the easiest, and undeniably the most effortless method to transform humble cherry tomatoes into a burst of concentrated, sweet-savory flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed for maximum taste with minimal effort, making it a perfect staple for any meal and a fantastic way to utilize an abundance of summer tomatoes.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity. Imagine this: a sturdy baking pan or a heavy cast-iron skillet, generously coated with fragrant olive oil. Into this goes a vibrant medley of plump cherry tomatoes, optionally accompanied by delicate slices of red onion, a few aromatic cloves of garlic, and just a whisper of sea salt to enhance their natural sweetness. Then, the magic happens. You slide it into a hot oven for merely 30 minutes, allowing the dry heat to coax out their juices, caramelize their sugars, and create those coveted blistered skins. While your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that promises a delicious meal, you’re free to relax, unwind, or perhaps focus on preparing the main course that these glorious roasted tomatoes will perfectly complement. It’s truly a hands-off dish that delivers gourmet results.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Easy Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to add fresh, vibrant, and deeply satisfying flavor to their meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s why these oven-roasted cherry tomatoes will quickly become a cherished regular in your culinary repertoire:

Unbelievably Simple: With just a handful of staple ingredients and minimal prep work, this recipe is almost foolproof. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something impressive without the fuss.
Bursting with Intense Flavor: Roasting at high heat concentrates the natural sugars and juices of the tomatoes, intensifying their sweetness and savory notes. The result is a richer, more complex flavor profile than fresh tomatoes.
Incredibly Versatile: From a simple, elegant side dish to a flavorful topping for almost anything, these roasted tomatoes can elevate a myriad of dishes, making them a true kitchen MVP.
Healthy and Nutritious: Tomatoes are packed with essential vitamins (like C and K), minerals, and powerful antioxidants, especially lycopene, which is even more bioavailable after cooking. Roasting them with healthy olive oil and garlic only adds to their health benefits.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a generous batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a versatile ingredient ready to enhance your breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for days.
Uses Up Excess Produce: If you find yourself with an abundance of cherry tomatoes from your garden or a farmer’s market, this recipe is the perfect solution to prevent waste and transform them into something truly special.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

The true genius of this recipe lies in its reliance on a few fresh, high-quality ingredients that, when combined and roasted, create an explosion of flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is important:

Cherry Tomatoes: The undisputed star of the show! You’ll need at least one pint, but don’t hesitate to use more – they shrink quite a bit during roasting. I particularly love using multi-colored cherry tomatoes (red, yellow, orange) for an added visual appeal and subtle variations in sweetness and acidity. Look for firm, bright tomatoes without blemishes. Grape tomatoes are an excellent substitute if cherry tomatoes aren’t available. Their smaller size and thin skins make them ideal for quick roasting and blistering.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is crucial here. It not only prevents sticking but also helps the tomatoes caramelize beautifully, adds richness, and infuses them with its distinct fruity and peppery aroma. Approximately 2 tablespoons are usually sufficient for a pint of tomatoes, ensuring an even coating without making them greasy.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is absolutely essential for that aromatic depth. Thinly sliced garlic cloves soften and mellow in the oven, infusing the tomatoes with a sweet, pungent flavor. I recommend 3-4 cloves, but if you’re a garlic enthusiast, feel free to add a few more! Avoid minced garlic if possible, as it can burn easily during roasting; slicing allows it to cook more gently.
Onion (Optional, but Highly Recommended): Half a medium onion, sliced into thin strips or chopped, adds a wonderful layer of delicate sweetness and savory depth to the dish. Red onion provides a slightly sharper flavor and beautiful color, while yellow onion offers a milder sweetness. If you’re not an onion fan, or prefer a purer tomato flavor, feel free to omit it. However, I find it truly enhances the overall experience.
Pinch of Salt: A simple pinch of sea salt or kosher salt is all you need. Salt plays a vital role in drawing out the moisture from the tomatoes, concentrating their flavors, and balancing the sweetness. Add it to taste, but a good starting point is about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per pint of tomatoes.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- Fresh Herbs: Elevate the dish with sprigs of fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano added directly to the pan during roasting. For delicate herbs like fresh basil or parsley, stir them in just after roasting to preserve their vibrant flavor and color.
- Black Pepper: A generous grind of fresh black pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a splash of balsamic vinegar during the last few minutes of roasting provides a tangy-sweet finish that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who appreciate a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes tossed with the other ingredients adds a delightful kick.
- Lemon Zest: A tiny bit of freshly grated lemon zest can brighten up the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Create Perfect Blistered Cherry Tomatoes

Achieving perfectly roasted and beautifully blistered cherry tomatoes is incredibly simple and requires just a few minutes of active preparation. Follow these straightforward steps for a guaranteed delicious outcome:

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This high temperature is crucial for ensuring a nice, even cook, promoting caramelization, and achieving those desirable blistered skins on the tomatoes.
Prepare Your Aromatics: If you’re including them, thinly slice half a medium onion. Aim for uniform slices so they cook evenly and caramelize nicely. Next, thinly slice 3 cloves of fresh garlic. Uniformity here also helps prevent burning and ensures even flavor distribution.
Wash and Thoroughly Dry Tomatoes: Gently wash your cherry tomatoes under cold running water. This step is crucial: it’s important to thoroughly dry them using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Any excess water can cause the tomatoes to steam rather than roast, preventing them from blistering and caramelizing properly.
Combine Ingredients in the Pan: Select your chosen baking pan or heavy skillet. A cast-iron skillet is highly recommended as it distributes heat very evenly and can contribute to a slightly crisper texture. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of good quality olive oil into the pan. Add the washed and meticulously dried cherry tomatoes, the sliced onion (if using), the sliced garlic, and a generous pinch of sea salt.
Toss and Spread Evenly: Gently toss all the ingredients together directly in the pan. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure the tomatoes, onions, and garlic are thoroughly and evenly coated with the olive oil and salt. Once coated, spread them out into a single layer across the bottom of the pan. This is a critical step: overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in less flavorful and less appealing tomatoes. If you have a large quantity of tomatoes, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
Roast to Perfection: Place the pan in your preheated oven. Roast for approximately 30 minutes. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your tomatoes. You’ll know they are ready when their skins are beautifully blistered and slightly shriveled, some have burst open, and the tomatoes themselves are wonderfully softened and slightly caramelized, releasing their fragrant juices.
Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven. Your oven-roasted cherry tomatoes are now ready to be enjoyed! They are absolutely wonderful served warm, straight from the oven, but are also surprisingly delicious at room temperature.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Flavorful Oven Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

The true magic of these roasted cherry tomatoes lies in their incredible versatility. They’re far more than just a simple side dish; they can be the star or a crucial supporting player in countless meals, adding a burst of concentrated flavor and vibrant color wherever they go. Here are some of my favorite and most creative ways to incorporate them:

With Meatballs: As mentioned, I absolutely adore serving these alongside my turkey chorizo meatballs. The sweet and savory burst of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the meatballs beautifully, creating a perfectly balanced bite.
On Pizza: Elevate your homemade or even store-bought pizza! Scatter a generous handful of these blistered tomatoes over your pizza before or after baking for an explosion of fresh, tangy flavor that complements almost any topping.
Breakfast Booster: Transform your morning meal! Serve these alongside crispy hash browns and perfectly cooked eggs for a sophisticated and incredibly flavorful start to your day. They’re also fantastic stirred into scrambled eggs, added to an omelet, or even nestled beside a poached egg on avocado toast.
Elevated Toast and Bruschetta: Simply spoon the warm, juicy tomatoes over a lovely piece of toasted sliced bread, such as my homemade French bread. A sprinkle of fresh basil, a crumble of feta or goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze turn it into a gourmet appetizer or light lunch.
Pasta Perfection: One of the easiest and most satisfying uses! Toss the warm roasted tomatoes (and their flavorful juices) with freshly cooked pasta, a little reserved pasta water, grated Parmesan cheese, and a handful of fresh basil. This creates a quick, light, and incredibly delicious meal. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
Salad Superstar: Add a burst of juicy flavor to any salad. They are wonderful in green salads, vibrant grain bowls (with quinoa or farro), or even mixed into a refreshing pasta or potato salad.
As a Dip or Spread: Lightly mash the roasted tomatoes and mix them with some creamy feta or tangy goat cheese, a touch of olive oil, and fresh herbs for a delicious dip. Serve with crusty bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetables.
Alongside Grilled Meats or Fish: These tomatoes make a fantastic, light, and healthy accompaniment to grilled chicken breasts, pan-seared steak, or flaky white fish. Their acidity and sweetness balance rich flavors.
In Sandwiches and Wraps: Add them to a classic turkey or chicken sandwich, a veggie wrap, or even a grilled cheese for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
Soups and Sauces: While fantastic on their own, roasted cherry tomatoes can also be blended into a quick tomato soup or used as a flavorful base for a rustic sauce.

Expert Tips for Perfectly Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Every Time

While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few simple tips can elevate your roasted cherry tomatoes from good to absolutely sensational, ensuring perfect results on every attempt:

Do Not Crowd the Pan: This is arguably the most critical tip for successful roasting. If you pile too many tomatoes into a single pan, they will release moisture and steam instead of caramelizing and blistering. Always ensure the tomatoes are spread in a single layer with a little space between each one for proper air circulation. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Use a Heavy-Duty Pan: A good quality cast-iron skillet or a heavy-duty metal baking sheet is ideal. These materials conduct and retain heat more evenly than thinner pans, which is essential for achieving consistent caramelization and those coveted blistered skins.
Thoroughly Dry the Tomatoes: As emphasized in the instructions, patting the tomatoes completely dry after washing them is crucial. Excess moisture will cause them to steam rather than roast, leading to a softer, less flavorful result.
High Heat is Key: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) is the sweet spot. This high temperature helps to quickly blister the skins and tenderize the interior without turning the tomatoes mushy or drying them out too much.
Experiment with Aromatics and Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of garlic or onion to suit your personal taste. You can also add sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme directly to the pan with the tomatoes for an infused herby flavor. A sprinkle of dried oregano or basil also works well.
Monitor for Doneness: Keep an eye on your tomatoes, especially towards the end of the roasting time. They are perfectly ready when their skins are visibly wrinkly and blistered, many have burst open, and they have softened considerably. They should have a slightly shriveled appearance and be beautifully caramelized in spots.
Add Fresh Herbs After Roasting: For delicate fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives, it’s best to stir them in after the tomatoes come out of the oven. The residual heat will wilt them slightly, releasing their aroma without cooking away their fresh flavor.

Delicious Variations to Personalize Your Roasted Tomatoes

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe for oven roasted cherry tomatoes, feel free to unleash your creativity and experiment with different flavor profiles to match your mood or meal. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Mediterranean Twist: After roasting, sprinkle with a generous amount of dried oregano, a few Kalamata olives (pitted and halved), and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve with crumbled feta cheese for an authentic Greek-inspired side.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, toss a pinch or two of red pepper flakes with the olive oil and other ingredients before roasting. The heat mellows slightly in the oven but still provides a pleasant warmth.
Herbaceous Delight: For a more aromatic profile, mix in fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs directly with the tomatoes before roasting. Alternatively, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped basil, parsley, or chives over the finished dish.
Sweet & Tangy Balsamic: For an irresistible sweet and tangy glaze, drizzle the tomatoes with balsamic vinegar during the last 10 minutes of roasting. The vinegar will reduce and become slightly syrupy. Alternatively, drizzle with a ready-made balsamic glaze after they come out of the oven.
Smoky Flavor: A tiny pinch of smoked paprika added to the olive oil and tomatoes before roasting can impart a wonderful, subtle smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the tomato’s sweetness.
Italian Herb Blend: Use a ready-made Italian seasoning blend along with the salt for a classic flavor profile that complements pasta dishes especially well.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

If by some miracle you happen to have any leftovers of these delicious oven roasted cherry tomatoes (it’s a rare occurrence!), here’s how to properly store and reheat them to enjoy later:

Storage: Allow the roasted cherry tomatoes to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Don’t be surprised if the olive oil solidifies slightly when cold; this is entirely normal and will liquefy again upon reheating or reaching room temperature.
Reheating: You have a few options for enjoying leftovers. They are delightful served cold or at room temperature, particularly in salads or on toast. If you prefer them warm, spread them on a baking sheet and gently reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can gently warm them in a skillet over low heat on the stovetop. Be careful not to overcook them during reheating, as they can become too mushy if heated for too long.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oven Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Can I use other types of tomatoes for roasting?: While cherry or grape tomatoes are absolutely ideal for this recipe due to their small size, high sugar content, and thin skins which blister beautifully, you can certainly roast larger tomatoes. If using Roma, heirloom, or other larger varieties, cut them into smaller, uniform pieces (halves, quarters, or wedges) to ensure even cooking and faster roasting times. They may also release more moisture, so don’t overcrowd the pan.
Do I need to peel the garlic cloves?: Yes, for this recipe, you’ll want to peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. This allows their flavor to fully infuse the tomatoes and other ingredients as they roast, creating a more cohesive and aromatic dish. Whole unpeeled cloves can also be roasted for a milder, spreadable garlic paste, but the sliced method is preferred here for infusion.
What kind of pan is best for roasting cherry tomatoes?: A heavy-duty baking sheet with a rim, a ceramic baking dish, or a cast-iron skillet all work wonderfully. The key is to use a pan that can conduct and retain heat well to ensure even roasting, good caramelization, and proper blistering of the tomato skins. Avoid thin, flimsy pans that can lead to uneven cooking.
Can I add other vegetables to the pan?: Absolutely! This recipe serves as a fantastic base for roasting other quick-cooking vegetables alongside the tomatoes. Bell peppers (sliced), zucchini (diced), asparagus spears, or even thin slices of mushrooms can be added to the pan. Just be mindful that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the density and water content of the added vegetables.
Are these roasted tomatoes good for meal prepping?: Yes, they are exceptionally good for meal prepping! You can easily roast a larger batch at the beginning of the week. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they’ll be ready to add a burst of flavor to your salads, eggs, pasta dishes, sandwiches, or grain bowls throughout the week.
How do I get the tomatoes to blister more?: To encourage more blistering, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C). Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this causes steaming instead of roasting. A dry tomato surface helps too. You can also try giving them a quick turn under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the very end, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Oven Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Kelly Kirkendoll

Print Recipe
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Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Italian, Ketogenic, Paleo, soy-free, Vegan

Ingredients

▢ 1 pint cherry tomatoes (I love to use multi-colored cherry tomatoes)
▢ 2 Tbsp olive oil
▢ 1/2 onion sliced or chopped
▢ 3 cloves of garlic, sliced
▢ pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees Celsius).
Slice half an onion and 3 cloves of garlic.
Wash and thoroughly dry your cherry tomatoes.
In a pan or heavy skillet, toss the tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt with 2 Tbsp olive oil. Spread into a single layer.
Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until blistered and softened.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

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Looking for more delicious and easy roasted vegetable side dishes to complement your meals? Be sure to explore these other fantastic favorites from Kitchen Gone Rogue:

Skillet Roasted Baby Potatoes
Red Thai Roasted Cauliflower
Greek Lemon Potatoes

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