Description
This simple and delicious recipe features large Roma tomatoes baked to perfection with layers of freshly shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, topped with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Quick to prepare and perfect as a light appetizer or side dish, the baked tomatoes offer a delightful combination of warm, melted cheese and aromatic herbs with a perfectly roasted tomato base.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Tomatoes
- 4 large Roma tomatoes, sliced
Cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
Herbs and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Arrange tomato slices: Place the sliced Roma tomatoes evenly on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap to ensure even cooking.
- Add cheese layers: Top each tomato slice with a generous layer of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, creating a rich and flavorful cheese topping.
- Sprinkle basil: Evenly sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the cheese-covered tomatoes to add fresh herbal aroma and flavor.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle the top of each tomato slice with olive oil to help the cheese melt beautifully and add a subtle richness.
- Bake the tomatoes: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and heated through.
- Broil for browning: Switch the oven to broil and broil the tomatoes for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden-brown, slightly crispy cheese crust. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Freshly shredding the cheese ensures better melting and taste.
- Adjust the broiling time according to your oven to prevent burning.
- This dish can be served warm as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light snack.
- For a variation, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 tomato slice with cheese)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg