Blistered Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Basil Recipe

If you are craving something vibrant, bursting with flavor, and effortlessly elegant, then this Blistered Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Basil Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture juicy cherry tomatoes transformed by gentle blistering in olive oil and garlic, releasing their natural sweetness while adding a caramelized depth that pairs beautifully with fragrant fresh basil. It’s a dish that’s deceptively simple, yet undeniably delicious, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or as a stunning side that elevates any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Blistered Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Basil Recipe lies in its handful of straightforward ingredients—each chosen to highlight the natural flavors and create a symphony of taste and texture in every bite.

• Cherry Tomatoes (2 cups): Choose ripe and juicy ones for maximum sweetness and flavor intensity.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Use extra-virgin olive oil for a rich, peppery base that lifts the dish.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): This adds a warm, aromatic punch that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Sea Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the tomatoes’ natural flavors and balances the dish.
• Black Pepper (0.5 teaspoon, freshly cracked): Adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor.
• Fresh Basil (1 handful): Tossed in at the end, it adds a fresh, herbal brightness.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional, 0.25 cup, freshly grated): Provides a savory, nutty finish if you want to take it a step further.

How to Make Blistered Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Basil Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything you need. Give the cherry tomatoes a thorough wash and dry them well so they can blister evenly when cooked. Mince your garlic finely so it releases its flavor quickly without burning.

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

Place a large skillet on medium heat and pour in the extra-virgin olive oil. Heat it until it shimmers slightly, which means it’s ready to infuse the garlic and tomatoes with rich flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want to smell that irresistible garlic aroma while watching it turn a light golden color—be careful not to let it burn, as it can quickly become bitter.

Step 4: Add the Cherry Tomatoes

Next, add your cherry tomatoes in a single layer to the skillet. Avoid piling them on top of each other to ensure each tomato makes good contact with the pan and blisters properly.

Step 5: Season and Stir

Sprinkle the tomatoes with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir gently to coat the tomatoes evenly, but keep them mostly in one layer for that signature blistered effect.

Step 6: Cook Until Blistered

Let the tomatoes cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, shaking the pan gently now and then. You’ll see their skins start to char and wrinkle, releasing their juices and sweetening even more. This is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Add Fresh Basil

Remove the skillet from heat and immediately toss in a handful of fresh basil. The residual heat will wilt the leaves just enough to release their fragrance and bright flavor without losing their vibrant color.

Step 8: Optional Parmesan Topping

If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the warm tomatoes. The salty, nutty cheese adds an irresistible creaminess to the dish.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your blistered cherry tomatoes immediately while warm. Whether as a main feature or a flavorful side, this dish shines when fresh and ready to delight!

How to Serve Blistered Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Basil Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil is the classic garnish, but you can also add a drizzle of good-quality balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat and acidity. A few pine nuts or toasted breadcrumbs can add a delightful crunch too.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the juices or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light, Mediterranean-inspired meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it over creamy polenta or tossed with cooked pasta for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the blistered tomatoes on crostini as an appetizer or mix them into salads to add a warm, roasted element. They also make a fantastic topping on pizza or grilled vegetables, bringing vibrant color and bold flavor to any plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover blistered cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep in mind, the fresh basil flavor is best added fresh when reheating, so store it separately if possible.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal since the texture of the tomatoes will change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider using the tomatoes later in cooked dishes like sauces or soups rather than enjoying them fresh.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm your blistered cherry tomatoes in a skillet over low heat just until heated through. Avoid microwave reheating to preserve texture and flavor. Add fresh basil after reheating for a fresh burst of herbal aroma.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes for this recipe?

While cherry tomatoes work best due to their size and sweetness, you can experiment with grape tomatoes or even small heirloom varieties. Just adjust cooking time as larger tomatoes may need longer to blister properly.

What can I substitute for basil if I don’t have any?

If fresh basil isn’t available, try using fresh oregano, parsley, or even mint for a different but still delicious herbal note. Each will change the flavor profile, so pick according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This dish contains no gluten ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-free diets. Just ensure any additional sides you serve alongside are also gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative to keep this dish completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor.

What’s the best way to avoid burnt garlic?

Garlic cooks very quickly and can burn easily. Make sure your olive oil is hot but not smoking, and sauté the garlic only until fragrant and lightly golden—about 30 seconds—before adding the tomatoes.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the warm glow of blistered cherry tomatoes with garlic and basil to make any meal feel special. This Blistered Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Basil Recipe is a vibrant celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. I encourage you to try it soon—it just might become your new weeknight favorite!

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