Ingredients
Tomato Mixture
- 2 (10 oz) packs cherry tomatoes
- 5 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese & Herbs
- 8-ounce fresh mozzarella ball
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, chives), minced
For Serving
- Toasted baguette slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the tomato mixture.
- Prepare Tomatoes: Place the cherry tomatoes in an 8×10 inch or 2-quart baking dish evenly spread out.
- Add Aromatics and Oil: Peel and smash the garlic cloves, thinly slice the shallot, then add both to the baking dish with the tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil to coat all ingredients.
- Season: Sprinkle the tomato mixture evenly with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a slight heat.
- Roast: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Assemble: Remove the roasted tomatoes from the oven. Arrange the fresh mozzarella ball in the center of a serving plate and spoon the warm tomato mixture around it.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the tomatoes with the minced fresh herbs, then serve immediately alongside toasted baguette slices for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- Red pepper flakes are optional; omit if you prefer no heat.
- Use fresh mozzarella for best creamy texture and flavor.
- To enhance flavor, fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, and chives provide a bright finish.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture experience.
- To toast baguette slices, brush with a little olive oil and bake until golden.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
