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A roasted cherry tomato party in a bowl.

This recipe creates a delightful 'party in a bowl' by roasting sweet cherry tomatoes until bursting with flavor. These caramelized tomatoes are then gently combined with fresh basil pesto and creamy mozzarella pearls, resulting in a simple yet elegant dish perfect as a starter or a light meal. It's a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients.
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 561 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet Large, rimmed for roasting
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl For tossing and serving
  • 1 Measuring Spoons For pesto
  • 1 Tongs or Spatula For handling hot tomatoes
  • 1 Serving Bowl For final presentation

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 4 tablespoons fresh basil pesto
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  • Drizzle the tomatoes generously with 2-3 tablespoons of good quality olive oil, and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss gently to coat.
  • Spread the seasoned tomatoes in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper caramelization.
  • Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened, some have burst, and their skins are slightly blistered and caramelized. The exact time will depend on their size.
  • Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the roasted tomatoes cool slightly for 5-10 minutes.
  • Transfer the warm, roasted tomatoes and any accumulated juices to a clean large mixing bowl.
  • Add the 4 tablespoons of fresh basil pesto to the bowl with the tomatoes.
  • Gently fold in the 1 cup of mozzarella pearls until evenly distributed.
  • Serve immediately, or at room temperature, as a vibrant side dish or appetizer.

Notes

1. Opt for ripe cherry or grape tomatoes for the best flavor; their natural sweetness intensifies with roasting. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will steam the tomatoes instead of caramelizing them. Use two sheets if necessary. 2. A good quality extra virgin olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper are crucial for seasoning the tomatoes before roasting. 3. While the recipe specifies pesto, consider a homemade version for superior freshness. 4. Serve the 'party' slightly warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It's excellent as a vibrant side dish or a light appetizer, perhaps with some crusty bread to soak up the juices.