Walking into my kitchen, I’m hit with the smell of roasted garlic and herbs. It’s like a trip to the Mediterranean. This dish of herb-roasted olives & tomatoes is a favorite of mine. It adds a burst of color and flavor to my meals every week.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- A versatile Mediterranean-inspired side dish that combines cherry tomatoes, garlic-stuffed olives, and aromatic herbs
- Takes just 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an easy and convenient option
- Yields 4 cups, serving as a flavorful appetizer or complementary side to various main dishes
- Highlights the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its use of high-quality olive oil and a blend of fragrant herbs
- Can be incorporated into a variety of recipes, from frittatas and pasta salads to pizza toppings and quiche
Introduction to Mediterranean-Style Roasted Vegetables
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious herb-roasted olives and tomatoes dish. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, making them a tasty side or appetizer. This Mediterranean cuisine recipe highlights the healthy and flavorful aspects of this cooking style.
Benefits of Mediterranean Cooking
Mediterranean cuisine focuses on plant-based foods, healthy fats, and balanced nutrition. Adding this roasted vegetables dish to your meals offers many benefits. You’ll get:
- Antioxidants from olives and tomatoes
- Heart-healthy fats from olive oil
- Fiber and vitamins from the vegetables
Why This Dish Stands Out
This herb-roasted olives and tomatoes dish is special because of its simple yet bold flavors. The mix of juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and herbs makes a flavorful side dish that’s easy to make and impressive.
Quick Overview of Ingredients
The main ingredients are:
- Assorted olives, like Kalamata, Castelvetrano, and Manzanilla
- Cherry or grape tomatoes
- Garlic cloves
- High-quality olive oil
- A mix of fresh herbs, like oregano, thyme, and basil
These ingredients come together to make a Mediterranean-inspired roasted vegetables dish. It’s perfect as a healthy snack or flavorful side dish.
Essential Ingredients for Herb-Roasted Olives & Tomatoes
To make this tasty Mediterranean dish, you’ll need a few key items. Start with 2 cups of mixed cherry tomatoes. Choose different colors and sizes for a nice look. Next, add 1 cup each of garlic-stuffed olives, Greek olives, and pitted ripe olives.
For a great aroma, use 8 minced garlic cloves. You’ll also need 3 tablespoons of olive oil for the perfect drizzle. To boost the flavors, add 1 tablespoon of herbes de Provence. This is a mix of dried basil, oregano, and other herbs.
Feel free to add a sprinkle of oregano, thyme, or fresh basil leaves. For a heartier appetizer, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or crumbled feta cheese.
“The combination of juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs creates a truly delightful Mediterranean flavor profile.”
With these key ingredients, you’re ready to make a vibrant and tasty herb-roasted olive and tomato dish. It’s sure to wow your guests.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cherry Tomatoes | 2 cups |
| Garlic-stuffed Olives | 1 cup |
| Greek Olives | 1 cup |
| Pitted Ripe Olives | 1 cup |
| Garlic Cloves | 8, minced |
| Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Herbes de Provence | 1 tablespoon |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect baked vegetable dishes and easy roasted vegetables, you need some key tools. First, a 15x10x1-inch baking pan or a small baking dish is best. This size lets the veggies roast evenly without being too crowded.
Recommended Baking Dishes
For a nice appetizer look, try a Staub oval baking dish. Its shallow, wide shape lets the veggies get a great caramelized finish.
Additional Kitchen Tools
- A sharp knife for chopping the vegetables
- Measuring cups and spoons for the right amounts
- A mixing bowl for tossing the veggies with seasonings
Temperature Control Essentials
An oven that keeps the right temperature is key for perfect roast veggies. Make sure to use an oven thermometer to check the temperature.
With the right tools, you’ll make delicious easy roasted vegetables. They’ll impress your family and friends for sure.
Preparing Your Ingredients
To make the perfect herb-roasted vegetable side dish, start by preparing your ingredients well. Cut the cherry tomatoes and olives in half for easy eating. Peel and crush the garlic cloves gently to get their flavorful oils out. If you’re using sun-dried tomatoes, drain and chop them roughly before adding them to the mix.
Get the good olive oil ready, along with a mix of fresh, fragrant herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps with even cooking and brings out the best flavors in your vegetable side dish.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and olives.
- Peel and crush the garlic cloves.
- Drain and chop the sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
- Measure the olive oil and fresh herbs.
- Bring all ingredients to room temperature for even cooking.
“Proper prep work is the foundation for delicious vegetable side dishes that are bursting with herb-infused flavors.”
Step-by-Step Roasting Process
Get ready to make your herb-roasted olives and tomatoes with this easy guide. First, heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a big baking dish, mix cherry tomatoes, garlic cloves, and olives. Then, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
Roast the mix for 15-20 minutes, stirring now and then. This will soften the tomatoes and caramelize their edges. For a Mediterranean twist with baked feta, lower the oven to 350°F (175°C) and roast for 20-25 minutes.
Seasoning Techniques
- Coat the veggies with extra-virgin olive oil for even coverage.
- Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Visual Cues for Perfect Roasting
Watch your baked vegetable dishes closely. Look for soft tomatoes and lightly browned edges. These signs mean your herb-roasted olives and tomatoes are done and ready to enjoy.
“Roasting is a simple yet transformative technique that can breathe new life into even the most unremarkable ingredients, like tomatoes and olives.”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cherry Tomatoes | 2 lbs |
| Garlic Cloves | 3 heads |
| Oven Temperature | 375°F |
| Roasting Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Recommended Herbs | Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary |
| Olive Oil | 1 1/4 cups |
| Kosher Salt | 1 tsp |
Herb Selection and Flavor Combinations
Choosing the right herbs is key to making perfect herb-roasted olives and tomatoes. Herbes de Provence, a blend from the Mediterranean, is a must-have. It combines oregano, thyme, and basil for a strong, fragrant taste.
Want to try something new? Add fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary. They bring a nice contrast to the olives’ earthiness and the tomatoes’ sweetness. A bit of red pepper flakes can also add a spicy kick.
The goal is to let the olives and tomatoes shine while adding herbs. Don’t use too many strong herbs. You want a balanced flavor that excites your taste buds.
“The perfect herb-roasted olives and tomatoes are all about finding the right balance between the natural flavors and the carefully curated herb selection.”
Feel free to mix and match herbs and spices to find your favorite. This dish is versatile, so you can make it your own. Enjoy a delicious, memorable taste of the Mediterranean.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
Make your Mediterranean feast even better by adding the herb-roasted olives and tomatoes to an antipasto platter. They go great with crusty bread, gluten-free flatbreads, or cucumber for a light snack. They also add flavor to grilled meats or fish as a side dish.
Pairing Recommendations
For more Mediterranean taste, pair the roasted olives and tomatoes with cured meats, cheeses, and marinated veggies. It’s perfect as a appetizer idea or part of a big spread. For vegans, swap burrata cheese with a plant-based option.
Garnishing Tips
- Add fresh parsley on top for color and herbal taste.
- Drizzle honey to balance the tomatoes’ and olives’ acidity.
- Use lemon wedges for a tangy touch.
- Top with flaky sea salt or black pepper for more flavor.
Follow these tips to make the herb-roasted olives and tomatoes a stunning and tasty part of your menu. Enjoy them as part of an antipasto platter or a versatile appetizer idea that will impress your guests.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed olives, pitted | 2 cups |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/3 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 6 cloves |
| Shallot, quartered | 1 shallot |
| Lemon, quartered | 1 lemon |
| Fresh thyme sprigs | 2 sprigs |
| Fresh oregano sprigs | 2 sprigs |
| Burrata cheese | 3-4 balls |
| Honey | 2-3 tablespoons |
Storage Tips and Leftover Management
Enjoying the flavors of your easy roasted vegetables doesn’t have to stop after one meal. With the right storage and leftover care, you can enjoy your Mediterranean cuisine for days. This way, you can relish the taste of your dish for a longer time.
To store leftovers, put them in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. When reheating, you have a couple of choices. For the best taste, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. Or, you can use the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds until hot.
Preparing the easy roasted vegetables ahead of time is also a great idea. Bake them just before serving. This ensures you have a tasty, Mediterranean cuisine-inspired side dish whenever you want.
“The key to enjoying these roasted vegetables for days is proper storage and reheating. With a little planning, you can savor their flavors long after the initial meal.”
These easy roasted vegetables are perfect for a quick side on a busy weeknight. They’re also great for adding to other dishes. They’ll be a favorite in your Mediterranean cuisine collection for sure.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Herb-Roasted Olives and Tomatoes is a tasty side dish inspired by the Mediterranean. It’s also packed with nutrients and health benefits. This plant-based recipe is great for adding to your list of healthy snacks and meals.
Caloric Content
A generous 1/4 cup serving has about 71 calories. It’s a guilt-free and satisfying choice.
Key Nutrients
- This dish is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and olives. These fats can lower cholesterol and improve heart health.
- It’s a good source of vitamins A and C, and potassium. These nutrients provide a nutrient-dense boost to your meal.
- The tomatoes in this recipe are full of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene has been linked to cancer prevention and better skin health.
Dietary Considerations
Herb-Roasted Olives and Tomatoes is a versatile dish that fits many diets. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and perfect for Mediterranean and plant-based diets. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for healthy snacks and side dishes.
| Nutrient | Amount per 1/4 cup serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 71 |
| Fat | 7g (1g saturated) |
| Sodium | 380mg |
| Carbohydrates | 3g (1g sugars, 1g fiber) |
| Protein | 0g |
Adding this nutrient-dense, healthy snack to your diet lets you enjoy Mediterranean flavors. It also supports your overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
Herb-roasted olives and tomatoes are a tasty way to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at home. You can change up the herbs and ingredients to fit your taste and diet. It’s easy to make, tastes great, and is good for you, making it perfect for snacks or parties.
This recipe is great for a quick side dish or a hit appetizer. The dish’s bright colors, fragrant herbs, and roasted veggies will wow you. It’s a treat for your taste buds, bringing the bold flavors of the Mediterranean right to your plate.
Try out this easy recipe and enjoy the mix of herbs, olives, and tomatoes. It’s perfect with grilled meats, pasta, or as a snack on its own. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
F.A.Q
What are the main ingredients in this herb-roasted olives and tomatoes dish?
The main ingredients are cherry tomatoes, garlic-stuffed olives, and Greek olives. You’ll also need pitted ripe olives, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil.
How long does this recipe take to prepare and cook?
It takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook this dish.
What are the health benefits of this Mediterranean-style dish?
This dish is full of heart-healthy fats from olive oil and olives. It’s also packed with vitamins A and C, and potassium. It’s great for Mediterranean and plant-based diets.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need a knife, measuring cups and spoons, a mixing bowl, and an oven. A Staub oval baking dish is best for appetizers like this.
How should the ingredients be prepared before roasting?
Halve the cherry tomatoes and olives for easy eating. Peel and crush the garlic cloves. Drain and chop sun-dried tomatoes. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.
What are some variations or additions to the recipe?
You can add sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese for a heartier appetizer. Try different herbs like parsley or rosemary. Red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.
How should the roasted olives and tomatoes be served?
Serve it on an antipasto platter or as a standalone appetizer. It’s great with crostini or cucumber slices. It also pairs well with crusty bread or gluten-free flatbreads. Serve it with grilled meats or fish for a flavorful side dish.
How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in a 350°F oven or microwave in 20-second increments.
