Prepare to transform ordinary tomatoes into a mouthwatering culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! These Oregano Parmesan Broiled Tomatoes are not just a side dish – they're a gourmet experience that takes just 15 minutes to create. Imagine golden, crispy Parmesan melting over juicy, caramelized tomatoes, infused with fragrant fresh oregano – a simple yet elegant recipe that will instantly elevate any meal and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler in your oven to high heat, positioning the rack about 4-5 inches from the top heating element.
- Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Carefully slice the tomatoes in half horizontally, exposing the inner flesh and seeds.
- Place the tomato halves cut-side up on a rimmed baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Drizzle each tomato half evenly with olive oil, ensuring the surface is lightly coated.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper, distributing the seasoning evenly across the cut surfaces.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh oregano generously over each tomato half, allowing the herbs to adhere to the olive oil.
- Top each tomato half with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese, covering most of the exposed surface.
- Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 7-10 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The cheese should become golden brown and slightly crispy, and the tomatoes should start to soften and caramelize.
- Remove from the broiler and let the tomatoes rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set and the tomatoes to cool slightly.
- Serve immediately as a side dish, appetizer, or garnish, while the tomatoes are still warm and the cheese is crisp.
Tips
- Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture and flavor. Roma or beefsteak varieties work wonderfully for this recipe.
- Pat the tomatoes completely dry before adding oil to ensure proper caramelization and prevent soggy results.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and the best melting quality.
- Watch the broiler carefully – the difference between perfectly golden and burnt can be just seconds.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or red pepper flakes before broiling.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the crispy cheese and warm, tender tomatoes at their peak deliciousness.
- If you don't have fresh oregano, dried herbs can be substituted, but use about 1/3 the amount.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
