Oven Dried Tomato Relish
A vibrant roasted tomato relish with garlic, basil, capers, and balsamic vinegar, perfect for summer gatherings or as a flavorful condiment for meats and cheeses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Core and halve the tomatoes.
- Combine virgin olive oil, cracked black pepper, coarse salt, and minced garlic to make a pepper rub.
- Coat the tomato halves with the pepper rub.
- Arrange the coated tomatoes on a baking rack and bake until dried and slightly caramelized, about 30 minutes.
- Roughly chop the baked tomatoes and place in a bowl.
- Add diced red onion, chopped basil, capers, balsamic vinegar, and virgin olive oil to the chopped tomatoes.
- Mix well to combine and serve as a relish.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your pepper rub. If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil can be used, but reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more potent. You can also substitute capers with olives for a different taste profile. Make sure to keep an eye on the tomatoes while baking to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
This relish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a vibrant flavor. Serve it as a topping for bruschetta or use it in Mediterranean recipes like a Greek Casserole Dinner (Mousaka Kreas). It can also enhance pasta dishes and salads, such as a Rice And Veggie Salad, making it a versatile addition to your meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. To enjoy it warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, just until warmed through. Avoid boiling to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Dried Tomato Relish contains roughly 202 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2189mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any variety of tomatoes, but the flavor and texture may vary. Roma tomatoes are a great option for drying due to their lower moisture content, while heirloom varieties can add a unique taste. Just adjust the baking time as needed based on the size and juiciness of the tomatoes.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. The use of olive oil, fresh vegetables, and herbs makes it a wholesome choice. If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Can I freeze the oven-dried tomato relish?
Yes, you can freeze the relish for longer storage. Place it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and enjoy the flavors that develop over time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).