Imagine a dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine in just one bite - crispy, golden breadcrumbs dancing atop juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes, with the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese. This "Assorted Tomatoes with Parmesan and Olive Oil Breadcrumbs" recipe is not just a side dish; it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 assorted tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle for even heating.
- Wash the assorted tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water, then pat dry with clean paper towels. Slice the tomatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds, arranging them on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and finely chopped fresh basil. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the tomato slices, ensuring each slice is lightly coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural tomato flavors.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture generously over the tomato slices, pressing gently to help the topping adhere.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy, and the tomatoes are slightly softened but still maintain their shape.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- • Choose a variety of tomatoes for visual appeal and complex flavor profiles - mix heirloom, cherry, and roma tomatoes for best results. • Use high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor impact. • Ensure your breadcrumbs are evenly distributed and lightly pressed to create a uniform, crispy topping. • Watch the tomatoes closely during the last few minutes of roasting to prevent burning. • For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a tiny pinch of dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. • Serve immediately after roasting to maintain the crispness of the breadcrumb topping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
