Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes offer intense flavor and chewy texture, perfect for salads, pastas, and antipasto platters. Rich, savory, and aromatic, ideal for Mediterranean cuisine lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut larger tomatoes into quarters and cherry tomatoes in half.
- Arrange the cut tomatoes on a cookie sheet, cut side up.
- Season with coarse salt to taste.
- Place the cookie sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven and dry for about 7 hours, watching to prevent burning.
- When done, the tomatoes should have a dried, shriveled appearance.
- Dip each tomato in vinegar.
- Layer the dipped tomatoes in sterile glass jars.
- Cover the tomatoes with olive oil.
- Add fresh herbs such as rosemary, basil, or thyme.
- Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate. Tomatoes will last for months.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use ripe, fresh tomatoes, preferably Roma or cherry varieties. If you prefer a quicker method, consider using a dehydrator instead of the oven. You can substitute vinegar with lemon juice for a different tang. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the flavor profile, making it a versatile addition to Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Sun-dried tomatoes make a delightful addition to salads, pastas, or sandwiches. They pair beautifully with Gazpacho, adding depth to the dish. You can also top them on bruschetta or incorporate them into a fruit antipasto platter for a vibrant presentation. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sun-dried tomatoes in an airtight container, submerged in olive oil, in the refrigerator. They can last for several months when kept cool and dark. To enjoy them later, simply take out the desired amount and use them directly in recipes or as a topping without the need for reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sun-Dried Tomatoes contains roughly 17 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% 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 other types of tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, while Roma and cherry tomatoes are ideal, you can also use standard tomatoes. Just ensure they are ripe for the best flavor. Larger tomatoes should be cut into smaller pieces to ensure even drying.
How can I use these sun-dried tomatoes in recipes?
Sun-dried tomatoes are incredibly versatile! Add them to pasta dishes, salads, or sandwiches for a burst of flavor. They can also be blended into dips or spreads, enhancing the taste of dishes like Broiled Pesto Tomatoes.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegan as it primarily uses tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you use, like vinegar, are also vegan-friendly. Enjoy these tomatoes in vegan recipes like salads or grain bowls.
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).