Tomatoes Provencal Recipe

Tomatoes: The star of the dish, providing a juicy and sweet base.

Breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy texture to the topping.

Garlic: Infuses the topping with a robust, aromatic flavor.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.

Olive oil: Helps bind the topping ingredients and adds richness.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth.

To enhance the flavor of your tomatoes, consider using fresh breadcrumbs instead of store-bought. Simply take a few slices of day-old bread, tear them into pieces, and pulse in a food processor until you achieve a coarse texture. This will give your breadcrumb mixture a more rustic and flavorful profile.

• halved tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers provide a similar texture and a sweet, slightly smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can provide a similar crunchy texture and can be seasoned to match the flavor profile of breadcrumbs.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlicky flavor, though it is less pungent and more evenly distributed.

• chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped cilantro: Chopped cilantro offers a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that can add a different but complementary note to the dish.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in cooking.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a bit of moisture and color.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a similar spiciness with an extra kick, though it should be used sparingly.

• Allow the tomatoes provencal to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the cooled tomatoes to an airtight container. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer to avoid squishing.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, place the cooled tomatoes provencal on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching each other.
• Freeze the tomatoes on the baking sheet for about 2 hours or until they are solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the tomatoes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for reference.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the tomatoes provencal in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Tomatoes Provencal in an oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the tomatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure they are evenly heated.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the Tomatoes Provencal cut side down and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, until warmed through and slightly crispy on the bottom.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the tomatoes in the basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway to ensure they are heated evenly and the topping remains crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the tomatoes until the topping is golden and the tomatoes are tender.

• Baking dish: Holds the halved tomatoes in place while they bake.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and olive oil.

• Knife: Essential for halving the tomatoes and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the tomatoes and mincing the garlic.

• Spoon: Used to spoon the breadcrumb mixture over the tomatoes.

• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the breadcrumbs and olive oil.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the minced garlic and chopped parsley.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when placing the baking dish in and out of the oven.

Pre-make the breadcrumb mixture: Combine breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and olive oil ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Use a food processor: Mince the garlic and chop the parsley quickly by pulsing them in a food processor.

Opt for pre-made breadcrumbs: Save time by using store-bought breadcrumbs instead of making your own.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients to save time.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy cleanup.