Blistered Tomatoes are a quick and delightful dish that brings the freshness of summer to your table. This vibrant recipe showcases juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor, served beautifully alongside creamy burrata and fragrant basil leaves. Perfect for appetizers or light meals, Blistered Tomatoes are sure to impress at any gathering with their simple preparation and satisfying taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 10 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- Bursting with Flavor: The high heat transforms cherry tomatoes into sweet, blistered morsels that complement the creamy burrata perfectly.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a topping for crusty bread—endless possibilities await!
- Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil ensures every bite is packed with vibrant flavors.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful presentation of this dish makes it a standout on any table.
Tools and Preparation
To make the most out of your Blistered Tomatoes, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Serving dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Retains heat exceptionally well, ensuring even cooking and perfect blistering of the tomatoes.
- Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing basil and prepping ingredients efficiently.
Ingredients
Delicious 10 minute tomato recipe served with creamy burrata and fresh, fragrant basil leaves.
For the Blistered Tomatoes
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 5 basil leaves (thinly sliced)
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
How to Make Blistered Tomatoes
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
In a cast iron skillet over high heat, heat the vegetable oil until it’s shimmering.
Step 2: Add Cherry Tomatoes
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Allow them to sit without stirring for 4-5 minutes so they can blister.
Step 3: Stir and Season
Give the tomatoes a gentle stir for an additional minute. Then sprinkle them with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Step 4: Assemble Your Dish
Place the burrata cheese in the center of a serving dish. Pour the blistered tomatoes around it for an appealing presentation.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with thinly sliced basil along with another pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top if desired. Enjoy your delicious Blistered Tomatoes!
How to Serve Blistered Tomatoes
Blistered tomatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. These vibrant little bites can be served in various ways, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions.
As a Fresh Appetizer
- Pair with toasted bread for a delightful bruschetta.
- Serve alongside a cheese platter, complementing rich flavors.
Over Pasta
- Toss with your favorite pasta for a quick and flavorful dish.
- Add in some sautéed garlic for an extra kick.
On a Salad
- Mix with leafy greens for a fresh and colorful salad.
- Drizzle with balsamic reduction for added sweetness.
With Grilled Proteins
- Serve as a side to grilled chicken or beef, enhancing the meal’s flavor.
- Use as a topping on grilled lamb chops for an elegant touch.
How to Perfect Blistered Tomatoes
To achieve the best blistered tomatoes, follow these simple tips. They will help enhance the flavor and texture of this delightful dish.
- Choose ripe tomatoes: Look for firm cherry tomatoes that are vibrant in color for the best taste.
- Use high heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that the tomatoes blister quickly while maintaining their shape.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each tomato space to blister; otherwise, they may steam instead.
- Stir minimally: Allow the tomatoes to sit undisturbed initially for optimal blistering before giving them a gentle stir.
- Season well: A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Best Side Dishes for Blistered Tomatoes
Blistered tomatoes pair wonderfully with many side dishes, enhancing your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, perfect for dipping into juices from the tomatoes.
- Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, it complements the richness of burrata nicely.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add depth and flavor alongside blistered tomatoes.
- Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta provides a hearty base that pairs well with the burst of flavors from tomatoes.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can balance out the sweetness of blistered tomatoes beautifully.
- Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs makes a light yet satisfying side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cooking too long: Mistake: Leaving the tomatoes in the skillet for too long can lead to mushiness. Avoid it by cooking them just enough to blister and retain their shape.
- Skipping seasoning: Mistake: Forgetting salt and pepper can make the dish bland. Avoid it by seasoning during cooking for better flavor.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Mistake: Not using fresh, high-quality tomatoes affects taste. Avoid it by selecting ripe cherry tomatoes for a delicious outcome.
- Overcrowding the pan: Mistake: Adding too many tomatoes at once can steam them instead of blistering. Avoid it by cooking in batches if needed for optimal results.
- Neglecting garnishes: Mistake: Omitting fresh basil or balsamic vinegar can diminish flavor. Avoid it by adding these ingredients for a fresh finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Blistered Tomatoes
- Freeze within 2 hours of cooking in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Use within 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Blistered Tomatoes
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Blistered Tomatoes?
Blistered tomatoes are cherry tomatoes cooked quickly over high heat, causing their skins to blister while keeping the inside juicy. They’re often seasoned and served as a side or appetizer.
How do you serve Blistered Tomatoes?
Blistered tomatoes pair beautifully with creamy burrata cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes! While cherry tomatoes are best for blistering, you can also use grape or even larger heirloom varieties. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Are Blistered Tomatoes healthy?
Absolutely! They’re low in calories and packed with vitamins. The addition of fresh basil offers more health benefits along with great flavor.
Can I make Blistered Tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving for the best taste.
Final Thoughts
This recipe for Blistered Tomatoes is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different herbs or cheeses based on your preference. Enjoy this delightful appetizer at your next gathering!
Blistered Tomatoes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Blistered Tomatoes are a vibrant celebration of summer flavors that can elevate any meal or gathering. This delightful dish transforms juicy cherry tomatoes into sweet, blistered bites, complemented by the creamy richness of burrata cheese and aromatic basil leaves. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or a topping for crusty bread, Blistered Tomatoes are sure to impress with their stunning presentation and burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 5 basil leaves (thinly sliced)
- 8 ounces burrata cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat until shimmering.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and let them sit without stirring for 4-5 minutes to blister.
- Gently stir the tomatoes for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper.
- Place burrata cheese in the center of a serving dish, arranging the blistered tomatoes around it.
- Garnish with sliced basil and drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
