When you think of sun-dried tomatoes, a whirlwind of culinary possibilities arises. You can toss them into pasta for added flavor, sprinkle them over a fresh salad for an explosion of taste,
First up, crank your oven up to 200°F (or about 95°C). This low and slow method is key. By keeping the temperature low, you allow the tomatoes to dry without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
While the oven heats up, wash your cherry or grape tomatoes gracefully under cold water. Ensure they’re clean and vibrant. Cut each tomato in half lengthwise, exposing the juicy insides. Place them face-up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving each tomato its moment in the spotlight.
Step 3: Season the Tomatoes
Drizzle your olive oil over the tomatoes. This is where the flavor kicks in. Sprinkle the pinch of sea salt gently over them, ensuring each tomato gets kissed by the seasoning. Then, scatter the fresh basil on top. It's simple, but each ingredient shines through.
Step 4: Dry the Tomatoes
Once your oven is preheated and the tomatoes are lined up beautifully, slide them into the oven. Let them dry for about 4 to 6 hours. Keep an eye on them around the four-hour mark. They should shrink, thicken, and become slightly leathery but still retain some moisture.
Step 5: Cool and Store
After your tomatoes are done drying, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. Once cooled, they’re ready to be either used immediately or stored in an airtight container.
Notes
Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Always go for the freshest tomatoes. The riper, the better! They’ll yield a sweeter, richer flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd: Give those little guys some space. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of dry, which is a big no-no.
Check Them Regularly: Now and then, crack that oven door open and check the tomatoes. Each oven is different, and monitoring them will help you avoid over-drying.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add garlic powder, herbs de Provence, or even chili flakes to the mix for an extra kick.
Store Properly: If you want to store your sun-dried tomatoes, consider packing them in a jar with olive oil and herbs. This adds even more flavor and helps preserve them for longer.