There’s something special about slow-cooked dishes that bring out the rich flavors and aromas of each ingredient. In this recipe for Slow Baked Tennessee Tomatoes, we’ll take a simple yet delicious approach to showcasing the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes. The slow baking process intensifies the flavors, resulting in tender, juicy tomatoes bursting with taste in every bite. This dish is perfect as a side to complement your favorite main course or as a standalone light meal on a warm summer evening.
**Slow Baked Tennessee Tomatoes**
**Ingredients:**
– 6 large ripe tomatoes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Cut each tomato in half horizontally.
3. Gently scoop out the seeds and excess pulp from each tomato half, creating a well in the center for the filling.
4. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Place the hollowed-out tomato halves in the prepared baking dish, cut side up.
6. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over each tomato half, making sure to coat the exposed flesh.
7. Divide the breadcrumb and cheese mixture among the tomato halves, generously filling each well.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
9. Bake the tomatoes for 1 hour, allowing them to slowly cook and absorb the flavors of the filling.
10. After an hour, remove the foil from the baking dish and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
11. Once done, take the tomatoes out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbaceous aroma and added freshness.
These Slow Baked Tennessee Tomatoes are a delightful way to savor the essence of summer produce. The tender texture of the tomatoes paired with the savory garlic, cheesy breadcrumbs, and fragrant olive oil create a harmonious blend of flavors that will impress your taste buds. Whether you serve them as a side dish or a light entrée, these slow-baked tomatoes are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the simple elegance of this dish and savor the slow-cooked goodness with every bite.
