Cherry Tomato Confit
Every time I make Cherry Tomato Confit, I am transported back to my grandmother’s garden, where the sun kisses the ripe tomatoes, turning them into little gems of flavor. The vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges beckon me to create something special with their natural sweetness. This recipe is not just a method; it’s a way of capturing the essence of summer in a jar. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter as she would tell me stories while we picked tomatoes together, ensuring to choose only the juiciest ones. This dish is more than a simple confit; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty, a tribute to the joy of cooking fresh ingredients. You can enjoy these tomatoes over pasta, on toasted bread, or even as a delightful side to your favorite proteins. The beauty of Cherry Tomato Confit lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it brings to every meal.
Recipe Snapshot
2 hr 5 mins
5 mins
120 mins
Hard
150 kcal
1 g
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan
15 g
Oven, Grater, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Peeler, Frying Pan
Why This Cherry Tomato Confit Is a Winner
Flavor Explosion
What makes Cherry Tomato Confit truly special is the explosion of flavor that comes from slow-roasting the tomatoes. As they cook, their natural sweetness intensifies, resulting in a rich, robust essence that elevates any dish.
Versatility
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can use it in various ways—toss it with pasta, spread it on bruschetta, or include it on a charcuterie board. The possibilities are endless, and it complements many meals.
Health Benefits
Cherry tomatoes are not just delicious; they are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients. They help boost your immune system and provide a healthy dose of hydration.
Easy Preparation
Even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen, making Cherry Tomato Confit is straightforward! It requires minimal effort and allows you to enjoy the simplicity of cooking.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This confit can be prepared in bulk and stored in the refrigerator, making it an essential item to have on hand for quick meal assembly during the week.
Everything You Need for Cherry Tomato Confit
The key to mastering Cherry Tomato Confit lies in understanding the harmony between its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, transforming these small fruits into a luxurious, flavorful dish. The star, of course, is the cherry tomatoes, which offer a burst of sweetness. Coupled with garlic, lemon zest, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, this recipe creates a luscious concoction that is both comforting and sophisticated.
- 2-1/2 pounds cherry tomatoes (a mix of red, yellow, and orange, if desired) – The sweetness and acidity of these tomatoes make them perfect for roasting, allowing for a rich flavor profile.
- 4 large garlic cloves, smashed and peeled – Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
- 1-1/2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest – This adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the oil and tomatoes.
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus additional, if needed) – The heart of the confit, the olive oil ensures the tomatoes become tender and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon kosher or fine-flaked sea salt – A necessary seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper – For a hint of heat that balances the dish perfectly.
- 10-12 fresh basil leaves – Basil brings a fresh herbaceous quality that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- 3 sprigs thyme – Thyme adds an earthy depth to the confit, rounding out the flavors.
Cooking Instructions for Cherry Tomato Confit
Preparing Cherry Tomato Confit is a delightful experience. You’ll love how simple it is to transform fresh ingredients into something extraordinary. Let’s walk through the steps together!
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F. It’s crucial to ensure the oven is at the right temperature for slow roasting, which helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Place the cherry tomatoes and garlic cloves in a single layer in a 3-quart baking dish or gratin dish. This spacing allows for even cooking, ensuring the tomatoes roast properly.
- Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the tomatoes and garlic. The zest will infuse a lovely citrus aroma while roasting.
- Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, making sure it comes about halfway up the sides of the tomatoes. This bathing in oil is key to achieving that confit texture.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper. Sprinkle them generously to enhance the overall flavor.
- Add the herbs—both basil and thyme—to the baking dish. I like to nestle them between the tomatoes for maximum flavor absorption.
- Bake the dish uncovered for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Keep an eye on the tomatoes; they should be soft, with wrinkled skins, just starting to burst. You want them tender but not completely falling apart.
- Once done, allow the tomatoes to cool in the pan at room temperature. This resting time helps the flavors settle.
- Transfer the cooled tomatoes into airtight jars, pouring enough of the cooking oil over to submerge them by 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This oil keeps them fresh and flavorful.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Enjoy your Cherry Tomato Confit as a delightful topping or side dish!
Things Worth Knowing
- Slow roasting the cherry tomatoes at a low temperature allows for maximum flavor extraction and maintains their integrity.
- Using a mix of tomato colors not only makes your dish visually appealing but also adds diverse flavor notes.
- Experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or oregano, to create a unique twist on this confit.
- Ensure the olive oil is of good quality, as it greatly influences the overall taste of the confit.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Cherry Tomato Confit turns out perfectly, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Storage: After making your confit, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last up to five days.
- Freezing: This recipe is not suitable for freezing. The texture of the tomatoes may change.
- Serving: Pair your confit with grilled meats or as a topping for bruschetta. It’s perfect for entertaining!
- Fresh Herbs: Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs. Just about any of your favorites will work well.
- Heat it up: If you prefer a little kick, add red pepper flakes during cooking for a subtle spice.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If your tomatoes are tart, consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
Serving Options for Cherry Tomato Confit
There are so many delightful ways to enjoy your Cherry Tomato Confit. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Over Pasta: Toss the confit with freshly cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful dish.
- Bruschetta: Spread it on toasted bread with a sprinkle of feta for a delicious appetizer.
- On Salads: Add the confit to salads for a burst of flavor and color.
- With Grilled Chicken: Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a lovely complement.
- Charcuterie Boards: Use the confit as part of a charcuterie board, paired with cheeses and meats.
- Gifts from the Kitchen: Jar the confit as a thoughtful gift for friends or family who appreciate homemade delicacies.
FAQ
Conclusion
Cherry Tomato Confit is a beautiful way to celebrate the sweet, vibrant flavors of summer. Its simplicity allows the ingredients to shine, creating a dish that is both comforting and versatile. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll experience the joy of transforming fresh ingredients into something truly special. Enjoy it in various ways, and let the flavors of summer brighten your dining experience!
Cherry Tomato Confit
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F. It's crucial to ensure the oven is at the right temperature for slow roasting, which helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Place the cherry tomatoes and garlic cloves in a single layer in a 3-quart baking dish or gratin dish. This spacing allows for even cooking, ensuring the tomatoes roast properly.
- Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the tomatoes and garlic. The zest will infuse a lovely citrus aroma while roasting.
- Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, making sure it comes about halfway up the sides of the tomatoes. This bathing in oil is key to achieving that confit texture.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper. Sprinkle them generously to enhance the overall flavor.
- Add the herbs—both basil and thyme—to the baking dish. I like to nestle them between the tomatoes for maximum flavor absorption.
- Bake the dish uncovered for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Keep an eye on the tomatoes; they should be soft, with wrinkled skins, just starting to burst. You want them tender but not completely falling apart.
- Once done, allow the tomatoes to cool in the pan at room temperature. This resting time helps the flavors settle.
- Transfer the cooled tomatoes into airtight jars, pouring enough of the cooking oil over to submerge them by 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This oil keeps them fresh and flavorful.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Enjoy your Cherry Tomato Confit as a delightful topping or side dish!
