This Slow-Roasted Tomatoes Recipe transforms cherry or Roma tomatoes into sweet, caramelized gems with a rich, concentrated flavor, enhanced by olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional garlic and thyme. Ready in about 1 hour 45 minutes, it’s a versatile side dish or ingredient for pasta, salads, or spreads.
Jump to RecipeSlow-Roasted Tomatoes Recipe Ingredients
- 2 lb. cherry or Roma tomatoes
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil
- 2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. ground black pepper
- 8 peeled garlic cloves (optional)
- 3 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
How To Make Slow-Roasted Tomatoes
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C/gas 2).
- Prepare the Tomatoes: If using Roma tomatoes, cut lengthwise into quarters. Leave cherry tomatoes whole. Arrange tomatoes in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Season and Oil: Drizzle olive oil evenly over the tomatoes, turning Roma slices or stirring cherry tomatoes to coat. Sprinkle evenly with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, tuck garlic cloves and thyme sprigs in and around the tomatoes.
- Roast: Bake for about 1 1/2 hours, until the tomatoes are shriveled and just beginning to burst. Check occasionally to ensure they don’t overcook.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish, or use in pasta, salads, or as a topping for bruschetta.

Recipe Tips
- Why roast at a low temperature? Slow roasting at 300°F concentrates the tomatoes’ sweetness without burning, creating a tender, caramelized texture.
- Can I use other tomato varieties? Yes, any small to medium tomatoes work, but adjust roasting time slightly for larger or smaller sizes.
- Can I make this ahead? Yes, roast up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. Reheat gently or serve cold in salads.
- How do I prevent sticking? Ensure tomatoes are well-coated with olive oil and use a parchment-lined baking sheet for easier cleanup.
What To Serve With Slow-Roasted Tomatoes
These flavorful tomatoes pair wonderfully with:
- Crusty bread or crostini for a simple appetizer
- Grilled chicken or fish for a light, summery meal
- A fresh mozzarella or burrata salad for a Mediterranean vibe
How To Store Slow-Roasted Tomatoes
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, cover with additional olive oil to preserve flavor.
Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Slow-Roasted Tomatoes Nutrition Facts
Serving: 1 portion (1/6th of recipe)
- Calories: ~100 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Protein: ~2g
- Fat: ~7g
- Saturated Fat: ~1g
- Sugar: ~6g
- Fiber: ~3g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods used.
FAQs
Yes, the tomatoes are delicious with just olive oil, salt, and pepper, but garlic and thyme add extra depth.
Grape tomatoes or small heirloom varieties work well; adjust roasting time slightly if sizes vary.
Yes, substitute with 1/2 tsp. dried thyme, sprinkled evenly over the tomatoes before roasting.
Try More Recipes:
Slow-Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
Course: Side DIshCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes1
hour30
minutes100
kcalSweet and caramelized slow-roasted tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, optionally enhanced with garlic and thyme, perfect as a side or versatile ingredient.
Ingredients
2 lb. cherry or Roma tomatoes
3 Tbsp. olive oil
2 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper
8 peeled garlic cloves (optional)
3 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C/gas 2).
- Quarter Roma tomatoes or leave cherry tomatoes whole. Arrange on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, toss to coat, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Tuck in garlic cloves and thyme sprigs, if using.
- Roast for 1 1/2 hours until shriveled and just bursting.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with bread, pasta, or as a side.
Notes
- Roast slowly for concentrated flavor.
- Refrigerate for 5 days or freeze for 6 months.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Omit garlic and thyme for a simpler dish.
- Check occasionally to avoid overcooking.
