Name: Herb Roasted Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

There's something absolutely magical about Herb Roasted Tomatoes-juicy, caramelized edges, a hint of garlic, and that burst of fresh herb flavor in every bite. This is hands down one of the best and easiest ways to let ripe tomatoes shine!

The combination of oven-roasted sweetness and aromatic herbs transforms humble tomatoes into a show-stopping side. These tomatoes come out tender, slightly blistered, and the perfect balance of savory and bright.

You'll love this recipe for its simplicity-everything comes together in one pan, making it a breeze for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. It's my go-to appetizer for summer gatherings, but I also love piling them onto toast for a quick lunch.

Inspired by lazy summer dinners and market-fresh veggies, this is a dish I could eat every week.

A tray of freshly roasted tomatoes garnished with herbs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Absolutely bursting with sweet, juicy tomato flavor
Ridiculously simple to prepare with minimal cleanup
Super versatile-serve as a side, topper, or appetizer
Completely vegan, gluten-free, and crowd-pleasing

Key Ingredients for Herb Roasted Tomatoes

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Ripe Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the undeniable star here, providing the dish's signature juicy, sweet-tart flavor. Use firm, ripe Roma or cherry tomatoes for the best texture and roasting results. If you have heirloom tomatoes, they'll lend incredible depth and color. Slice them evenly so they roast up beautifully together. You can absolutely swap in grape tomatoes or even mixed colors to make the dish extra vibrant.

Fresh Herbs

Aromatic herbs give these tomatoes that craveable Mediterranean flair. I highly recommend a blend of fresh thyme, basil, and parsley, but oregano or rosemary also work deliciously. Finely chop herbs to help them stick to the tomatoes and impart maximum flavor. In a pinch, dried herbs are a fine substitute-just use about one-third as much since they're more concentrated.

Garlic

A few cloves of minced garlic infuse the tomatoes with wonderful depth and a hint of mellow, savory flavor as they roast. For a milder touch, slice the garlic thin instead of mincing, or try roasted garlic for extra sweetness. If you're out of fresh garlic, a pinch of garlic powder will work.

Olive Oil

Good-quality extra virgin olive oil helps the tomatoes caramelize and keeps them luscious, not dry. Drizzle generously-this oil combines with the tomato juices for a mouthwatering finish. If you're out of olive oil, avocado oil works well, but you'll lose a bit of that classic Mediterranean aroma.

Balsamic Vinegar

A splash of balsamic vinegar adds subtle acidity and sweetness, balancing the richness of the oil and herbs. This also amps up the umami flavors and complements the tomatoes. Red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon are nice substitutes if you want to experiment.

Instructions for Herb Roasted Tomatoes

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting at a higher temperature helps the tomatoes caramelize on the edges while staying juicy inside.

Prep the Tomatoes

Rinse and dry your tomatoes well, then cut them in half lengthwise. Place them in a single layer on a large baking sheet, cut side up for maximum flavor absorption.

Season and Toss

In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the mixture over the tomatoes and gently toss to coat each piece evenly. Don't forget to tuck some garlic and herbs under the tomatoes for extra flavor.

Roast to Perfection

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, edges are caramelized, and juices are bubbling. Keep an eye out-the tomatoes should look slightly blistered but not mushy.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, then sprinkle with extra fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy immediately as a side, over pasta, or piled onto crusty bread.

Recipe Variations

Add a Cheesy Finish

For a tangy twist, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the warm tomatoes just before serving. The cheese will soften slightly and add creaminess-just skip this for a vegan version.

Make It Spicy

Add a hefty pinch of red pepper flakes or thinly sliced fresh chili to the herb mixture before roasting. This gives the tomatoes a gentle kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

Try Different Herbs

Don't have fresh basil or parsley? Use rosemary, oregano, dill, or even chives! Mixing up the herb combination keeps this dish exciting and lets you use whatever you have on hand.

Gluten-Free and Keto-Friendly

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, but for a keto boost, serve with grilled halloumi or avocado slices for added healthy fats.

Roasted Tomato Medley

Use a mix of heirloom, cherry, and grape tomatoes for a visually stunning, multi-colored presentation. The variety of flavors and textures is so fun!

Serving Suggestions

Herb Roasted Tomatoes shine as a vibrant side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or steak. Spoon them over creamy polenta, toss with hot pasta, or pile atop toasted sourdough for an easy appetizer. They also make a phenomenal topping for grain bowls, salads, or even scrambled eggs. Garnish with a shower of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flair.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover roasted tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. These are not ideal for freezing, as the texture becomes very soft, but leftovers are delicious stirred into soups or sauces!

Frequently Asked Questions About Herb Roasted Tomatoes (FAQ)

Q: What kind of tomatoes work best for roasting?

A: Roma, cherry, or grape tomatoes work best-look for firm, ripe fruit. You can use heirloom tomatoes for added flavor and color.

Q: Can I make Herb Roasted Tomatoes ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Roasted tomatoes can be made a day in advance, stored in the fridge, and reheated before serving.

Q: Are roasted tomatoes suitable for meal prep?

A: Yes! They're great in salads, sandwiches, grain bowls, and pasta throughout the week. Keep them chilled and use within four days.

I hope you fall in love with these Herb Roasted Tomatoes as much as I have! They're proof that simple ingredients can create something sublime. Give this recipe a try, and be sure to leave a comment or rating to let me know how it turns out for you!

★★★★★ 4.80 from 179 ratings