We’ve always been fans of sun-dried tomatoes for their burst of sweet-tangy flavor that elevates any dish. Our Sun Dried Cherry Tomatoes Recipe captures that essence using fresh, vibrant cherries, making it a simple way to preserve summer’s bounty right in your kitchen.
Originating from sunny Mediterranean regions, this method intensifies the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes through air-drying, turning them into a versatile pantry staple. We’re excited to share how easy it is to whip up this homemade treat that’ll add a gourmet touch to your meals.
Ingredients
For our Sun Dried Cherry Tomatoes recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that capture the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Below, we list them in the order they’ll be used, with prep notes for precision.
- Fresh cherry tomatoes: 2 pounds, washed and halved lengthwise to ensure even drying and maximize flavor intensity.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: ¼ cup, for coating the tomatoes to preserve moisture and enhance their rich, tangy sweetness.
- Sea salt: 1 teaspoon, coarsely ground and sprinkled lightly to draw out excess water and boost the natural umami.
- Garlic cloves: 4 cloves, minced for adding a subtle, aromatic depth as the tomatoes dry.
- Fresh basil leaves: ½ cup, roughly torn and optional, to infuse herbaceous notes that complement the sun-dried process.
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon, crushed to provide earthy undertones and tie into traditional drying methods.
Tools and Equipment
To seamlessly transition from our ingredient list and create flavorful Sun Dried Cherry Tomatoes, we need a selection of reliable tools that ensure precise preparation and effective drying. These essentials help us achieve that perfect sweet-tangy profile while maintaining safety and efficiency in our kitchen.
Here’s a breakdown of the key tools we recommend:
- Baking Sheets: Use sturdy, rimmed baking sheets to spread out the cherry tomatoes evenly. Opt for ones with non-stick surfaces or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote uniform air-drying.
- Parchment Paper: This heat-resistant liner keeps the tomatoes from adhering to the baking sheets and makes cleanup straightforward, especially if we’re using an oven for simulated sun-drying.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: A high-quality knife allows us to halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes quickly and safely, while a stable cutting board provides a solid surface for prep work.
- Oven or Dehydrator: For controlled drying, an oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F) works wonders for mimicking the sun’s warmth. If available, a food dehydrator offers even more consistent results by circulating air effectively.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for ingredients like olive oil and salt, so we rely on these to portion everything out precisely before drying begins.
- Airtight Jars or Containers: Once dried, these are essential for storing our Sun Dried Cherry Tomatoes, helping preserve their intensified flavors and extend shelf life for up to several weeks in the refrigerator.
By gathering these tools beforehand, we set ourselves up for a smooth process that captures the essence of Mediterranean traditions right in our own kitchen.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we can begin creating our flavorful sun-dried cherry tomatoes, capturing that irresistible sweet-tangy essence straight from Mediterranean traditions.
Prepare the Tomatoes
First, we rinse 2 pounds of fresh cherry tomatoes under cool water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove any impurities. Next, we halve each tomato using a sharp knife on a stable cutting board, exposing their juicy interiors for even drying and allowing flavors to intensify.
In a large mixing bowl, we combine the halved tomatoes with ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of coarsely ground sea salt, 4 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup of roughly torn fresh basil leaves (if using), and 1 teaspoon of crushed dried oregano, tossing everything gently with our hands to ensure each piece is evenly coated. This step infuses the tomatoes with aromatic herbs and a glossy sheen, promising a burst of savory depth that evokes sun-kissed Mediterranean fields.
Dry the Tomatoes
We preheat the oven to a low 200°F (95°C) or set up our dehydrator to maintain this temperature, creating the ideal environment for slow drying. On sturdy, rimmed baking sheets lined with parchment paper, we arrange the prepared tomatoes cut-side up in a single layer, spacing them slightly apart to promote air circulation and prevent sogginess.
Bake the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 hours, or dehydrate them for 8 to 10 hours, flipping them halfway through to ensure uniform drying—monitor closely as times may vary based on tomato size and oven accuracy. As they dry, we watch the tomatoes shrink and transform, developing a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture that heightens their natural tang, filling our kitchen with an irresistible, herbaceous aroma.
Store the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Once the tomatoes are fully dried and cooled to room temperature—achieving a leathery yet pliable consistency—we transfer them into clean, airtight jars or containers to preserve their vibrant flavors. For added preservation, we can submerge them in a fresh layer of extra-virgin olive oil, sealing the jars tightly to lock in freshness and extend shelf life.
Store the jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry, where they will keep for up to 6 months; if refrigerated, they last even longer, up to 12 months, while retaining that signature sweet-tangy profile perfect for elevating salads, pastas, or antipasti platters.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
As we wrap up our guide to crafting sun-dried cherry tomatoes, let’s explore how we can prepare them in advance and store them effectively to maintain their sweet-tangy flavor. This ensures our homemade treats stay fresh and ready to enhance salads, pastas, or antipasti platters.
Make-Ahead Strategies
To save time and enjoy sun-dried cherry tomatoes whenever we need them, we recommend these simple steps:
- Prep ingredients early: We can wash and halve the cherry tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator to prevent oxidation and keep their juices intact.
- Assemble the mixture ahead: Combine the halved tomatoes with olive oil, salt, garlic, basil, and oregano in a bowl, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before drying. This allows flavors to meld, intensifying the Mediterranean essence without starting the drying process.
- Dry in batches: If we’re making a large quantity, we can prepare and dry multiple trays over a couple of days. Cool the dried tomatoes completely before storing, so we build up our pantry stock efficiently.
Storage Methods
Proper storage is key to preserving the chewy texture and robust flavor of our sun-dried cherry tomatoes. We always use clean, dry containers to avoid moisture buildup.
For optimal results, follow these guidelines:
- In olive oil: Submerge the cooled tomatoes in extra-virgin olive oil in an airtight jar. This not only extends shelf life but also infuses the oil with garlic and herb flavors for versatile use in dressings or marinades.
- In a cool, dark place: Store jars without oil in a pantry away from heat and light to maintain quality.
- Refrigeration or freezing: For longer-term storage, keep them chilled or frozen to lock in freshness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Cool, dark place | Up to 6 months | Airtight container, room temperature (below 70°F) |
| Refrigerator | Up to 12 months | In oil or dry, sealed container at 40°F or below |
| Freezer | Up to 18 months | Vacuum-sealed bags for best preservation at 0°F or below |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how sun-dried cherry tomatoes bring Mediterranean magic to our kitchens.
This simple process lets us capture summer’s essence year-round, turning fresh picks into pantry staples that wow in any dish.
Let’s experiment with these gems in salads or pastas—it’s the perfect way to elevate our meals and savor homemade flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sun-dried cherry tomatoes?
Sun-dried cherry tomatoes are fresh cherry tomatoes dried to enhance their natural sweet-tangy flavor. Originating from Mediterranean traditions, they concentrate the fruit’s essence, making them a versatile pantry staple for adding depth to dishes like salads, pastas, and antipasti.
How do you make sun-dried cherry tomatoes at home?
To make them, rinse and halve 2 pounds of fresh cherry tomatoes. Mix with ¼ cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon sea salt, minced garlic, optional basil, and oregano. Spread on a baking sheet and dry in a low-heat oven or dehydrator for several hours until chewy. Cool and store in airtight containers.
What ingredients are needed for sun-dried cherry tomatoes?
The key ingredients include 2 pounds of fresh cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon coarsely ground sea salt, 4 minced garlic cloves, optional ½ cup torn fresh basil, and 1 teaspoon crushed dried oregano. These enhance flavor and preserve the Mediterranean taste.
What tools are required to prepare sun-dried cherry tomatoes?
You’ll need sturdy rimmed baking sheets, parchment paper, a sharp knife and cutting board, an oven or dehydrator, measuring cups and spoons, and airtight jars for storage. These ensure safe, efficient preparation and help achieve the perfect sweet-tangy profile.
How long do sun-dried cherry tomatoes last?
Properly stored in a cool, dark place, they last up to 6 months. In the refrigerator, they can keep for up to 12 months. For longer freshness, submerge in olive oil to maintain flavor and prevent spoilage.
Can sun-dried cherry tomatoes be used in various dishes?
Yes, they’re versatile and add a burst of flavor to salads, pastas, antipasti platters, pizzas, and sandwiches. Their concentrated sweetness enhances both simple and gourmet recipes, making them a go-to ingredient for everyday meals.