Charred Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Cherry tomatoes: These small, round tomatoes are known for their sweet flavor and juicy texture. They are perfect for quick cooking methods like charring.

Olive oil: A staple in many kitchens, olive oil adds a rich, fruity flavor and helps to achieve the perfect char on the tomatoes.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes and balances their sweetness.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the dish, complementing the sweetness of the tomatoes.

To achieve the perfect char on your cherry tomatoes, make sure the skillet is thoroughly preheated before adding the olive oil. This ensures that the tomatoes will start to sear immediately, locking in their juices and enhancing their natural sweetness. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to allow each tomato half to make direct contact with the hot surface, which is crucial for even charring.

• halved cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes have a similar size and sweetness, making them a perfect substitute.

• halved cherry tomatoes - Substitute with diced Roma tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are meatier and less juicy, which can work well when charred.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for charring.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil also has a high smoke point and a light flavor, ideal for cooking at high temperatures.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar salty flavor with a slightly different texture.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains and can be easier to control when seasoning.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used if you prefer a less pungent taste.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: For a spicier kick, crushed red pepper flakes can add heat and a different dimension of flavor.

• Allow the charred cherry tomatoes to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Transfer the cooled tomatoes to an airtight container. A glass container with a tight-fitting lid is ideal to maintain their flavor and texture.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The charred cherry tomatoes will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Spread the cooled tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together.
• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the tomatoes are frozen solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the tomatoes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the charred cherry tomatoes in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or use them cold in salads, pastas, or as a topping for bruschetta.

• Microwave: Place the charred cherry tomatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly warmed.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover cherry tomatoes. Stir occasionally and heat for about 3-4 minutes until they are warmed through.

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

• Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the cherry tomatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• Steamer: Place the cherry tomatoes in a heatproof dish that fits inside your steamer. Steam over boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until they are heated through. This method helps retain their moisture and flavor.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking at high heat, perfect for achieving a nice char on the cherry tomatoes.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip and move the cherry tomatoes around in the skillet to ensure even cooking.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, salt, and pepper accurately.

• Cutting board: A surface used to safely halve the cherry tomatoes before cooking.

• Chef's knife: A sharp knife used to cut the cherry tomatoes in half.

• Serving dish: A dish used to serve the charred cherry tomatoes immediately after cooking.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating the skillet while you prepare the cherry tomatoes to save time.

Use pre-halved tomatoes: Buy pre-halved cherry tomatoes or prepare them in advance to reduce prep time.

Batch cooking: Cook larger quantities of cherry tomatoes at once and store leftovers for future meals.

Quick seasoning: Mix salt and pepper together beforehand for faster seasoning.

High heat efficiency: Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the olive oil to speed up the charring process.