Tiny Tomato-tizers
Ever realize you have too much of a produce item you’re never going to finish before it goes bad? This happened last week. I had purchased a box of grape tomatoes to use on salads. However, Mr. E and I were leaving towards the end of the week to attend a friend’s wedding in Florida, and I knew they’d be in poor shape by the time we’d get home. So, I did what any other creative person would do- I turned them into an appetizer to enjoy before dinner. And they were met with positive reviews by Mr E.
Grape and cherry tomatoes are sweeter versions of their big cousins. And health benefits run in the family. From heart-protecting and cancer-fighting antioxidants to cholesterol-lowering nutrients, these little red treats aren’t messing around. Pop a few for a low calorie snack- 1 cup will only cost you 27 calories! Small tomatoes are in their peak season early summer, so now is a perfect time to pick some up.
This is a quick appetizer to whip up if visitors stop by unexpectedly or you are looking for something to add to your next cocktail party. If you have a box of small tomatoes, cheese, and spices hanging around, then you’re ready to go. I prefer making these in my small toaster/convection oven rather than heating the entire house up using my oven. Give these red beauties a shot and pair with your favorite pizza wine- I highly recommend a nice Zinfandel.
RECOMMENDED ITEMS: convection toaster oven & appetizer serving platter
Ingredients
- 20 grape tomatoes halved lengthwise
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 TB shredded hard cheese Asiago or Parmesan recommended
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp dried basil
Instructions
- Preheat oven 350ºF.
- Line a baking pan with non-stick foil or parchment paper.
- Arrange tomatoes on tray with cut side facing up.
- Sprinkle garlic, cheese, oregano and basil on tomatoes.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Info
5 halves= 29 calories, 1g fat (0g sat fat), 4g carbs, 1g fiber, 2g protein, 43 mg sodium (Source: SELF Nutrition Data)
DISCLAIMER: All opinions are my own and are not influenced or biased by any third parties. I am not compensated for mentioning any specific brands or retailers on this blog.