Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Oven roasted cherry tomatoes with balsamic vinegar is an easy recipe that’s a delicious base for many rustic Italian-inspired dishes, like cherry tomato pasta sauce! This Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is perfect for casual dinners, elegant gatherings, or meal prep. Its unique flavor profile and vibrant colors will impress anyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful dish ready in no time.
- Versatile Base: Use it for pasta, bruschetta, or as a side dish—this recipe adapts to any meal.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of balsamic vinegar and roasted garlic creates a mouthwatering taste that elevates any dish.
- Healthy Option: Packed with fresh ingredients, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Seasonal Delight: Enjoy the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes during their peak season.

Tools and Preparation
To successfully prepare the Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe, gather the necessary tools and ensure you’re ready for cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting and easy cleanup with its rimmed edges.
- Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients easily before transferring them to the baking sheet.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting tomatoes quick and safe.
Ingredients
For this delightful Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds ripe cherry tomatoes (halved or grape tomatoes)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 2 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Salt and pepper
- 1 pound spaghetti (or fettuccini)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup shaved parmesan cheese
How to Make Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grab a large rimmed baking sheet to prepare for roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly.
- Cut them in halves and place them on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and sugar over them. Gently toss to coat.
Step 3: Season and Roast
- Spread the tomatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Generously sprinkle salt and pepper over the top.
- Roast in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes until they are very wilted, and juices have thickened.
Step 4: Serve or Store
Serve warm right away or refrigerate until you’re ready to use them.
Step 5: Cook Your Pasta
Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain it while reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Once your roasted cherry tomatoes are out of the oven:
Place the cooked pasta into a large bowl.
Pour the roasted cherry tomatoes along with their juices over the pasta.
Add fresh basil leaves and shaved parmesan cheese. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 7: Adjust Consistency
If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually (1/4 cup to 1/2 cup) until achieving your desired sauce consistency.
Serve warm, enjoy your Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe!
How to Serve Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Balsamic roasted cherry tomatoes are versatile and can elevate many dishes. They add a burst of flavor that complements various meals, making them perfect for any occasion.
As a Pasta Sauce
- Toss them with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal.
- Combine with olive oil and cheese for an easy side dish.
On Crostini
- Spread them on toasted bread slices for a delightful appetizer.
- Top with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
With Grilled Meats
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a fresh contrast.
- The sweetness of the tomatoes enhances the savory notes of the meats.
In Salads
- Add them to mixed greens with goat cheese and walnuts for a refreshing salad.
- Use in a caprese salad, layering with mozzarella and basil.
As Part of an Antipasto Platter
- Include them in your antipasto spread with olives, cheeses, and cured meats.
- Their tangy-sweet flavor pairs well with various accompaniments.
How to Perfect Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
To achieve the best results with this recipe, consider the following tips that ensure your cherry tomatoes are flavorful and perfectly roasted.
- Use ripe tomatoes – Select fully ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Give tomatoes space on the baking sheet to roast evenly.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste before serving; feel free to tweak salt and pepper to your liking.
- Experiment with herbs – Try adding oregano or rosemary alongside thyme for varied flavors.
- Serve warm – Enjoying them warm enhances their taste and texture in your dishes.
Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Pairing side dishes with balsamic roasted cherry tomatoes can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread – Crunchy on the outside, soft inside; perfect for soaking up juices.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini complements the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes.
- Quinoa Salad – A refreshing option that adds protein; mix in feta cheese and cucumbers.
- Roasted Potatoes – Crispy potatoes offer a hearty side that pairs well with any main dish.
- Steamed Asparagus – A simple yet elegant vegetable side that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Ignoring Tomato Quality: Using unripe or poor-quality tomatoes can ruin the dish. Always select ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If you place too many tomatoes on the baking sheet, they will steam instead of roast. Spread them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your tomatoes with salt and pepper can lead to bland results. Use generous amounts to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Roasting in a cold oven affects cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven to 400°F before roasting.
- Neglecting Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water means you might end up with a dry dish. The reserved water helps create a silkier sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- They maintain quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Warm in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Gently heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe:
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can use grape tomatoes or larger varieties cut into smaller pieces, but cherry tomatoes provide the sweetest flavor.
What dishes can I make with roasted cherry tomatoes?
Roasted cherry tomatoes are versatile! Use them in pasta dishes, salads, bruschetta, or as a topping for grilled meats.
How do I know when my tomatoes are done roasting?
Your tomatoes should be very wilted and slightly caramelized with thickened juices after roasting for 30-40 minutes at 400°F.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or basil, or toss in olives or capers for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. These sweet and tangy roasted beauties can elevate any dish, from pasta to bruschetta. Experiment with your favorite herbs and accompaniments to make this recipe truly your own!
Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Balsamic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe, where sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes meet the rich tang of balsamic vinegar. This simple yet impressive dish takes just 10 minutes to prep and is ideal for casual meals or elegant gatherings. Whether tossed with pasta, served on crostini, or paired with grilled meats, these roasted tomatoes will elevate any dish with vibrant color and mouthwatering taste. Perfect for meal prep, they can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3–4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a rimmed baking sheet.
- Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes, then cut them in half and place them on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes. Add minced garlic, thyme, and sugar; toss gently to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper. Spread tomatoes in a single layer.
- Roast in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes until wilted and juices are thickened.
- Serve warm as a side dish, pasta sauce, or topping for bruschetta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg