Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Oven-Baked Bliss

Craving the rich, concentrated flavor of sun-dried tomatoes but don’t want to wait for the sun to do its magic? This recipe is your answer! Making sun-dried tomatoes in your oven is surprisingly easy and delivers delicious results that can be enjoyed year-round.

These oven-baked beauties are bursting with savory goodness and add a punch of flavor to pasta sauces, salads, pizzas, and more. Imagine transforming ordinary dishes into culinary masterpieces with just a sprinkle of these homemade gems.

Ready to embark on this simple journey? Let’s get started!

Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Crisp and flavorful, oven sun dried tomatoes are a game-changer for any meal. This simple recipe yields a delicious, chewy snack or addition to pasta dishes, salads, and more.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 cup sun dried tomatoes (about 200g)

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (1 kg) ripe tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• Optional: garlic powder, dried herbs (e.g., basil, oregano)

Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the tomato halves, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, sugar, and any desired herbs or spices. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the tomatoes are dry and slightly chewy.

Ingredients for Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

To make delicious oven sun dried tomatoes, it’s essential to start with the right ingredients and equipment. The best tomato varieties for sun drying are those with dense, meaty flesh and low water content, such as Roma, Plum, or Cherry tomatoes.

The following ingredients are necessary for this recipe:

• 1.2 kg / 2.6 lbs fresh tomatoes, sliced into 6 mm / 1/4 inch thick rounds
• 60 ml / 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 10 g / 2 teaspoons salt
• 5 g / 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2.5 g / 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2.5 g / 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 2.5 g / 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Optional ingredients:
  • 5 g / 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 5 g / 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 30 g / 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

In addition to these ingredients, you will need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, a wire rack, and an oven set to 65°C / 150°F for low-temperature drying.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes pack a punch of flavor and are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Making your own at home is surprisingly easy and allows you to control the sweetness and intensity of the flavor. This guide walks you through the process, ensuring perfect, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 60°C (140°F). This low temperature is crucial for slow, even drying.
2. Slice your tomatoes. Choose ripe tomatoes with firm flesh. Slice them about 5mm thick.
3. Arrange the tomato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching or overlapping.
4. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil. Use about 1 tablespoon per 240g (1 cup) of tomatoes.
5. Season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices like oregano, basil, or garlic powder to your liking.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
7. Dry the tomatoes for 6-8 hours. Check them periodically and flip them halfway through to ensure even drying.
8. Once the tomatoes are shriveled and leathery, remove them from the oven. They should feel firm to the touch but not hard.
9. Allow the tomatoes to cool completely on the baking sheet.
10. Store the sun-dried tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months.

Enjoy your homemade sun-dried tomatoes in pasta dishes, salads, pizzas, or simply as a delicious snack!

Pro Tips for Making Perfect Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

Selecting the right tomatoes is crucial for achieving perfect oven sun dried tomatoes. Opt for plum or Roma tomatoes, which have less water content and a higher solid content than other varieties.

• Choose ripe but firm tomatoes, as they will yield better results and be less prone to spoilage.
• Avoid using cherry or grape tomatoes, as they can become too dry and develop an unpleasant texture.

Preventing Moisture and Achieving Perfect Dryness

To prevent excess moisture and ensure even drying, make sure to:

• Cut the tomatoes in half or quarter to increase their surface area and promote even drying.
• Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Monitor the temperature and adjust as needed to prevent over-drying. Aim for 65°C (150°F) to 70°C (158°F) for optimal results.
• Flip the tomatoes halfway through the drying time to ensure even drying and prevent hot spots.

Avoid the common pitfall of over-drying, which can result in tomatoes that are too brittle and tasteless. Keep an eye on the tomatoes and remove them from the oven when they reach your desired level of dryness.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

When making oven sun dried tomatoes, there are several options for substituting ingredients or using different tomato varieties. For a similar flavor profile, consider using 240 g / 1 cup of cherry tomatoes or 180 g / 1 cup of grape tomatoes instead of the standard tomato variety.

• Basil substitution: Replace 15 g / 1/4 cup of fresh basil with 7 g / 1 tablespoon of dried basil or 30 g / 1/4 cup of fresh oregano for a slightly different flavor.
• Garlic alternative: Use 3 g / 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead of 6 g / 2 cloves of fresh garlic for a milder taste.
• Tomato variety alternative: Try using 240 g / 1 cup of heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes, sliced into 6 mm / 1/4 inch thick pieces, for a meatier texture and richer flavor.

Keep in mind that these substitutions may affect the final flavor and texture of the oven sun dried tomatoes. Store them in an airtight container at 20°C / 68°F to preserve freshness.

Flavor Your Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Once you’ve mastered the basic oven-dried tomato recipe, the possibilities for flavor combinations are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Mediterranean Medley

Combine the tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, rosemary, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bake at 100°C (212°F) for 2-3 hours, until the tomatoes are deeply concentrated and slightly wrinkled.

Sweet and Spicy

Add a touch of sweetness and heat by tossing the tomatoes with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Bake at 120°C (248°F) for 2-3 hours, until the tomatoes are caramelized and slightly sticky.

Citrus Burst

For a bright and tangy flavor, mix the tomatoes with orange zest, lemon juice, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Bake at 100°C (212°F) for 2-3 hours, until the tomatoes are softened and infused with citrus aroma.

Storing Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

Once your oven sun dried tomatoes are ready, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you preserve their quality:

• Airtight Containers: Store your oven sun dried tomatoes in airtight containers, such as glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. This will prevent moisture and other contaminants from entering the container.
• Cool, Dark Place: Store the containers in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing them near direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Refrigerate or Freeze: If you won’t be using your oven sun dried tomatoes within a few weeks, consider refrigerating or freezing them. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or frozen for up to a year.

When storing your oven sun dried tomatoes, make sure they are completely dry and free of moisture. If you notice any signs of mold or spoilage, discard the tomatoes immediately.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your oven sun dried tomatoes for months to come and preserve their delicious flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

When making oven sun dried tomatoes, several issues can arise. Fortunately, most problems have simple solutions. Here are some common issues and their fixes:

• Mold or Yeast Growth: This can occur if the tomatoes are not dry enough or if they are stored in an airtight container while still warm. To prevent this, ensure the tomatoes reach an internal temperature of 60°C / 140°F and cool completely before storing.
• Tomatoes Not Drying Evenly: This can be due to uneven slicing or inconsistent oven temperature. Try slicing the tomatoes to a uniform thickness and rotating the baking sheet every 30 minutes to promote even drying.
• Tomatoes Becoming Too Dark or Developing Off-Flavors: This can happen if the tomatoes are dried at too high a temperature. Reduce the oven temperature to 65°C / 150°F and monitor the tomatoes’ color and flavor.
• Tomatoes Sticking to the Baking Sheet: To prevent this, line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, and spray with a small amount of oil (about 15 ml / 1 tablespoon) before adding the tomatoes.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you can overcome common issues and achieve perfectly dried, flavorful oven sun dried tomatoes every time.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Sun Dried Tomatoes

Sun dried tomatoes are a concentrated source of nutrition, boasting a rich flavor profile and a host of health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they make a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet.

These dried delights are particularly high in vitamin K, which plays a vital role in blood clotting and bone health. They also offer a good amount of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production.

A serving of sun dried tomatoes (approximately 30g / 1 ounce) provides:

• Calories: 100 kcal
• Fat: 5g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Dietary Tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegan

Frequently Asked Questions About Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

Oven sun dried tomatoes are a delicious and healthy addition to many dishes, but we know you may have some questions.

Q: How long do sun dried tomatoes take to make in the oven?

A: The drying time for oven sun dried tomatoes can vary depending on the temperature and thickness of the tomato slices. Typically, it takes 3-4 hours at 150°C (300°F) or 6-8 hours at 120°C (250°F).

Q: Can I use any type of tomato for oven sun dried tomatoes?

A: Yes, you can use a variety of tomatoes, but plum tomatoes or cherry tomatoes work best due to their high water content and dense flesh.

Q: How do I store oven sun dried tomatoes?

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freeze for up to 6 months.

Q: Can I use oven sun dried tomatoes in place of fresh tomatoes in recipes?

A: Yes, oven sun dried tomatoes are a great addition to many dishes, but keep in mind they have a more intense flavor than fresh tomatoes.

Key Takeaways for Making Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

To achieve perfectly dried tomatoes, remember these essential points. Start by selecting ripe, flavorful tomatoes, ideally plum or cherry tomatoes, which have a higher solid content and will yield better results.

• Preheat the oven to 65°C / 150°F, the ideal temperature for drying tomatoes without cooking them.
• Use 240 g / 1 cup of tomatoes, sliced into 6 mm / 1/4 inch thick pieces for even drying.
• Drizzle with 15 ml / 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt to enhance flavor and texture.
• Dry the tomatoes in the oven for 6-8 hours, or until they reach the desired level of dryness.

Monitoring the tomatoes’ progress and adjusting the drying time as needed is crucial to prevent over-drying. Store the dried tomatoes in an airtight container to preserve their flavor and texture. By following these key takeaways, you’ll be able to make delicious oven sun dried tomatoes at home.

A Few Notes From My Sun-Drying Adventures

Making sun dried tomatoes at home is a rewarding experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is simply divine! I’ve found that using a good quality olive oil is crucial for flavor. Don’t skimp on it – your taste buds will thank you.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different tomato varieties, and my favorite for sun drying is Roma. They have a meaty texture and a rich, sweet flavor that intensifies during the drying process.

Remember, patience is key! Drying tomatoes takes time, but the result is worth the wait. A good indicator that your tomatoes are done is when they are leathery and pliable, not rock hard.

Once your sun dried tomatoes are cool, store them in a sterilized jar with a good glug of olive oil, and they’ll keep for weeks in the refrigerator. I love using them in pasta sauces, salads, or simply as a delicious snack.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Oven Sun Dried Tomatoes

With your oven sun dried tomatoes now ready, you’ll discover the depth of flavor and texture they bring to various dishes. They’re perfect for adding to pasta sauces, salads, and sandwiches. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite ways to use them. If you’re looking for more ideas, try pairing them with fresh mozzarella and basil for a simple yet elegant appetizer, or add them to a hearty pizza.

We hope you enjoyed making and devouring these homemade sun dried tomatoes. Happy cooking!