Roast Cherry Tomatoes and Feta: A Symphony of Sweetness and Salt

The late summer garden is a glorious, overflowing treasure trove, and for me, no ingredient embodies that bounty quite like cherry tomatoes. I remember one particularly abundant season, my kitchen overflowing with baskets of them, their skins glistening like tiny jewels. My mother and I, inspired by the sheer volume, decided to create something simple yet deeply satisfying for supper. We wanted to capture that sun-ripened sweetness, tempered by a delightful savory counterpoint. This recipe, born from a surplus of garden goodness, became an instant favorite, a testament to how the simplest ingredients, treated with a little care, can create pure magic. It’s a dish that speaks of warmth, sunshine, and shared meals, a true culinary hug.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: As prepared
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, letting the quality of the ingredients shine.

• 1 kilogram cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh marjoram, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ – ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a lot of fancy gadgets for this one.

• Oven
• Shallow ovenproof dish (or two if one isn’t large enough)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Instructions

The beauty of this dish lies in its almost effortless preparation. The oven does the heavy lifting, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special.

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This is a crucial first step to ensure even cooking and optimal caramelization of the tomatoes.
2. Carefully arrange the halved cherry tomatoes in a single layer within your ovenproof shallow dish. If your dish isn’t large enough to accommodate all the tomatoes in one layer, it’s perfectly acceptable to use a second dish. However, maintaining that single layer is key for even roasting. Ensure the cut sides are facing upwards, which allows them to soften and release their delicious juices.
3. There’s no need to grease the dish; the tomatoes will release enough of their own moisture.
4. Now, it’s time to build flavor. Evenly sprinkle the salt, freshly ground black pepper, and all the finely chopped fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, marjoram, parsley, chives, and basil) over the tomatoes. The medley of herbs will infuse the tomatoes with wonderful aromatic notes as they roast.
5. Next, scatter the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. The breadcrumbs will toast and add a lovely textural element, while the Parmesan will contribute a delightful umami richness.
6. Finally, dot the crumbled feta cheese all over the tomatoes. The amount of feta can be adjusted slightly to your preference, but this range ensures a good balance of creamy, salty goodness.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them – you’re looking for the tomatoes to be tender and slightly collapsed, and the cheese to be melted and bubbling. The edges of the tomatoes should be just starting to char slightly, which is where a lot of that concentrated sweetness comes from.
8. Once baked, let the dish cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and prevents you from burning your tongue on molten cheese and hot tomatoes.

Expert Tips & Tricks

As a chef, I always look for ways to elevate even the simplest dishes. Here are a few thoughts on getting the most out of your Roast Cherry Tomatoes and Feta:

• Tomato Variety Matters: While any cherry tomato will work, a mix of colors and varieties can add visual appeal and subtle differences in sweetness and acidity. Sungolds, Romas, and small heirlooms all bring something unique to the table.
• Herb Harmony: Don’t be afraid to adjust the herb ratios to your liking. If you’re particularly fond of basil, add a little more. If marjoram isn’t your favorite, reduce it slightly. The key is a balanced blend.
• Breadcrumb Boost: For an extra layer of crunch, you can lightly toast the breadcrumbs in a dry pan before sprinkling them over the tomatoes. This ensures they stay crisp even after baking. Panko breadcrumbs also offer a wonderfully airy crispness.
• Garlic Infusion: For an added layer of complexity, you can mince 1-2 cloves of garlic and toss them with the tomatoes and herbs before baking. Be mindful not to burn the garlic, so add it during the last 10 minutes of roasting if you’re worried.
• Feta Fun: If you prefer a milder feta, you can soak it in water for about 30 minutes before crumbling to reduce some of its saltiness.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.

Serving:
Serve warm directly from the oven. It’s utterly divine on its own, allowing the pure flavors to shine. For a more substantial meal, it’s wonderful spooned over a bed of lightly dressed mixed greens. It also makes a superb side dish for grilled meats or fish, the sweet and salty tomatoes cutting through the richness. And for a true taste of Mediterranean comfort, stir it into cooked pasta for an instant, effortless sauce. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving can add a final touch of richness and gloss.

Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While best enjoyed fresh, it can be gently reheated in a low oven (around 150°C/300°F) or carefully in a microwave. Be aware that the texture of the tomatoes will soften further upon reheating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving, keeping in mind that exact values can vary based on specific ingredients used:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	135.9 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	–	50 g (37%)
Total Fat	5.6 g	8%
Saturated Fat	3.4 g	17%
Cholesterol	18.9 mg	6%
Sodium	603 mg	25%
Total Carbohydrate	16.3 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	3.7 g	14%
Sugars	7.8 g	31%
Protein	6.9 g	13%

Note: The “Calories from Fat” entry in the source data was a bit unconventional, so it’s been interpreted to reflect the percentage of daily value for total fat.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is wonderful as is, here are a few ways to put your own spin on it:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the herbs for a touch of heat.
• Vegan Delight: Omit the Parmesan and feta. Instead, use a good quality vegan feta alternative and perhaps a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure your breadcrumbs are also vegan.
• Balsamic Sweetness: Drizzle a tablespoon or two of balsamic glaze over the tomatoes before baking for an added layer of sweet and tangy complexity.
• Mediterranean Medley: Introduce other Mediterranean flavors like chopped Kalamata olives or small cubes of roasted bell peppers alongside the tomatoes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use larger tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
A: While you can use larger tomatoes, you’ll need to chop them into bite-sized pieces. Cherry tomatoes offer a perfect burst of flavor and sweetness when roasted whole.

Q: What kind of dish is best for roasting the tomatoes?
A: A shallow, ovenproof dish is ideal. This allows for even heat circulation and ensures the tomatoes roast rather than steam. Ceramic, glass, or metal dishes all work well.

Q: How do I know when the tomatoes are perfectly roasted?
A: They should appear softened and slightly collapsed, with their skins beginning to wrinkle and blister. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with some golden-brown spots.

Q: Is it important to have them in a single layer?
A: Yes, a single layer ensures that the tomatoes roast evenly and caramelize beautifully. If they are piled up, the ones on top might steam rather than roast.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can halve the tomatoes and chop the herbs in advance. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the dish just before serving for the freshest flavor and best texture.

Final Thoughts

This humble dish of roast cherry tomatoes and feta is a testament to the magic that happens when simple, high-quality ingredients are treated with a little respect. It’s a recipe that nourishes the soul as much as the body, perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side, or a delightful appetizer. I encourage you to try it, especially when cherry tomatoes are at their peak. Share it with loved ones, savor the flavors, and perhaps discover your own favorite way to enjoy this sun-kissed delight. I’d love to hear your culinary adventures with this dish!