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Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Baked Parmesan Tomatoes are a quick and easy side dish that combines ripe, juicy tomatoes with savory Parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs. This warm, melty treat offers a burst of umami flavor and crispy golden topping, making it perfect to accompany grilled meats, pasta, or toasted bread. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a versatile, healthy, and customizable dish that brightens up any meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh Tomatoes (Roma or cherry) – about 1 pound
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup
  • Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Fresh Garlic (minced or sliced) – 2 cloves
  • Italian Herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) – 1 teaspoon total
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon
  • Freshly ground Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon

Optional Ingredients

  • Bread Crumbs – 2 tablespoons (for extra crunch)
  • Red Pepper Flakes or Cayenne – to taste (for spicy variation)
  • Fresh Rosemary or Sage – as a herb alternative
  • Additional Vegetables (diced zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms) – ½ cup
  • Parmesan Cheese Substitutes (Pecorino Romano or Asiago) – ½ cup
  • Nutritional Yeast (for vegan option) – ½ cup

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and help the Parmesan cheese brown beautifully.
  2. Slice or Halve the Tomatoes: Depending on the size of your tomatoes, either slice larger Roma tomatoes into thick rounds or halve cherry tomatoes. Arrange them evenly spaced in a single layer in the prepared baking dish for even cooking.
  3. Season and Add Garlic: Sprinkle the tomatoes with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced or sliced garlic. The garlic will roast with the tomatoes, mellowing and adding depth to the flavor.
  4. Drizzle Olive Oil and Sprinkle Herbs: Drizzle quality olive oil over the tomatoes, then evenly sprinkle your choice of Italian herbs to add an aromatic Mediterranean flair.
  5. Add Parmesan and Optional Breadcrumbs: Generously cover the tomatoes with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For extra texture and crunch, add a light sprinkle of bread crumbs on top of the cheese.
  6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. The tomatoes should be tender and juicy.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan from a block for best flavor and melting quality.
  • Choose firmer tomatoes to maintain shape and texture during baking.
  • Avoid overcrowding the tomatoes to ensure even roasting instead of steaming.
  • Use a fruity, high-quality olive oil to enhance richness and aroma.
  • Watch the baking time carefully to prevent drying out the tomatoes.
  • For vegan option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and skip bread crumbs or use vegan versions.
  • Breadcrumbs can be omitted or replaced with gluten-free alternatives for gluten-free needs.

Nutrition

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