Bring bold flavor to your table with these Low Sodium Charred Tomatoes—a vibrant, heart-healthy side dish or topping that’s as quick as it is flavorful. Fresh cherry tomatoes are halved and tossed in a simple yet aromatic blend of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and freshly ground black pepper. Charred to smoky perfection in a hot skillet, these tomatoes are then brightened with a splash of fresh lemon juice and garnished with fragrant basil leaves. With just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time, this recipe makes a low-sodium, plant-based delight that’s perfect alongside grilled proteins, stirred into pasta, or heaped onto bruschetta. Packed with flavor, texture, and vibrant color, this dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to sacrifice taste.
Begin by washing and drying the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Slice each tomato in half and place them in a large mixing bowl.
In the bowl, add olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and freshly ground black pepper to the tomatoes. Toss to ensure all the tomatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned tomatoes to the skillet in a single layer, cut-sides down.
Cook the tomatoes without stirring for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until they are charred on the cut side. Be cautious not to move them prematurely to allow proper charring.
Once the tomatoes are charred, gently toss them in the skillet and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they are slightly softened but still hold their shape.
Remove the skillet from the heat, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the charred tomatoes. Toss lightly to combine.
Transfer the tomatoes to a serving plate and garnish with fresh basil leaves torn into smaller pieces.
Serve warm as a side dish or as a topping for bruschetta, pasta, or salads.
Calories |
326 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.9 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 21 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 16.0 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.7 g | 17% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.4 g | ||
| Protein | 3.5 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 54 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 796 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.