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Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Baked Parmesan Tomatoes are a simple, flavorful side dish featuring ripe tomatoes topped with a crispy, golden Parmesan cheese crust. This quick and easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of juicy tomatoes and savory, crunchy cheese, ideal for pairing with meats, pastas, or vegetarian meals. Ready in under 30 minutes, this healthy and visually appealing dish adds vibrant color and rich Mediterranean flavors to any table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 500g fresh Roma or cherry tomatoes, washed and halved or quartered
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • Fresh basil or rosemary (as herb alternatives)
  • Finely chopped spinach or kale (for added nutrients)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly. Depending on their size, slice them into halves or quarters to create flat surfaces for the cheese topping. Pat them dry with a paper towel to minimize excess moisture, which helps the Parmesan crisp up perfectly.
  2. Season the tomatoes: Place the tomato pieces in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs evenly over the tomatoes. Toss gently to coat every piece with the seasoning.
  3. Add the Parmesan topping: Generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each tomato slice. If using breadcrumbs, mix them with the Parmesan before sprinkling for added crunch. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top to promote a golden finish.
  4. Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking dish on the middle rack and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the tomatoes are tender but still hold their shape.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and allow the tomatoes to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps lock in moisture and enhances their flavors.

Notes

  • Choose firm tomatoes such as Roma for best shape retention during baking.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal melting and crispiness.
  • Don’t omit the olive oil as it adds flavor and helps achieve a golden crust.
  • Watch closely toward the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
  • For fresh herb flavor, add chopped basil or parsley just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Baked Parmesan Tomatoes, Parmesan tomato side dish, crispy tomato recipe, easy baked tomatoes, Mediterranean side, low carb side dish