Perfectly Blistered Tomatoes – ready in just 10 minutes. This recipe combines sweet cherry tomatoes with minced garlic, sliced shallots, and fresh basil in a simple dish that makes a delicious addition to your favorite pastas, sandwiches, and salads!

The first time I realized there was something special about blistered tomatoes was when I tasted them on a grilled cheese. I was instantly sold. Because there’s something about infusing fresh tomatoes with olive oil and garlic and fresh herbs… they become almost elegant, and instantly elevate any dish you add them to.

They add an almost creamy richness to pastas like Sausage & Pepper Linguine, and they would take this Whipped Ricotta Bruschetta to a whole new level. They’d also be amazing on warm salads like this Basil Pesto Panzanella!

But the truth is you don’t need any special way to enjoy them, because they’re delicious all on their own. They make the perfect side dish for grilled chicken or steak… and we love eating them with crusty bread as a simple appetizer.

what you’ll need for this recipe

Tomatoes – I used 2 cups of tomatoes from my garden (a mixture of cherry and grape tomatoes.)

Olive oil – 2 Tablespoons olive oil adds delicious flavor and helps keep the tomatoes from sticking to the skillet. Use flavored olive oil for a delicious twist!

Shallot, Garlic, Basil – Sliced shallot, minced garlic cloves, and fresh basil add delicious flavor.

Salt & pepper – A sprinkle of salt & pepper help bring out all the other flavors in the recipe!

Tips on Blistering Cherry Tomatoes

Don’t overcrowd the skillet. In order for tomatoes to blister, they need to be touching the hot surface of the pan. Spread them out in a single layer, leaving some room to stir.

Use medium-high heat. Medium-high is the perfect temperature for the skins to blister without over-cooking the insides of the tomatoes.

If possible, use cast iron. Cast iron skillets get screaming hot, which helps in the blistering process.

Don’t overcook. Cook until al dente so you don’t end up with mushy tomatoes.

Recipe Variations

Add additional thinly sliced vegetables, such as mushrooms, red pepper, or zucchini
Add or substitute fresh thyme, oregano, parsley, or any of your favorite fresh herbs
Add additional seasonings, such as Italian seasoning, onion powder, black pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes
Use flavored olive oil (e.g. basil, garlic, or rosemary) to infuse even more flavor into the dish
Top with fresh parmesan cheese, crumbled feta, or crumbled goat cheese
Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze

making blistered tomatoes in the oven

Instead of using a pan on the stovetop, you can also roast tomatoes in the oven for a similar effect. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, sliced shallots, minced garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Spread the mixture on a rimmed baking sheet and bake at 400° for 15-20 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.

storing & reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat in a small skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

More Delicious Tomato Recipes

If you love tomatoes and/or have a garden full of them… be sure to check out some more of our favorite ways to use them!