Squashed Tomatoes
Bursting with rustic Italian charm, "Squashed Tomatoes" is a simple yet flavorful dish that transforms ripe Roma tomatoes into a rich, chunky sauce infused with garlic, fresh basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar. This quick recipe, ready in under 40 minutes, features blistered and gently smashed tomatoes, releasing their succulent juices to meld with the aromatic blend of extra virgin olive oil and optional red chili flakes for a subtle kick. Perfect as a versatile topping for crusty bread, a cozy companion to your favorite pasta, or a vibrant side dish, this recipe celebrates the bright, fresh flavors of summer produce with minimal effort. Ideal for weeknight meals or casual entertaining, "Squashed Tomatoes" is a must-try for lovers of bold, wholesome Mediterranean cuisine.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 pieces ripe Roma tomatoes
- 3 pieces fresh garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 5 pieces fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
Wash the Roma tomatoes and slice them in half lengthwise. Set aside.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Add the halved tomatoes to the skillet, cut side down. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skins begin to blister.
Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, gently crush the tomatoes to release their juices.
Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes if using. Stir to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and let the tomatoes simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they break down into a thick, chunky sauce.
Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and stir them into the sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Drizzle in the balsamic vinegar, give everything a final stir, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve warm as a side dish, over pasta, or as a topping for crusty bread. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
484 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.1 g | 55% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.0 g | 30% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1213 mg | 53% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 27.9 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.1 g | 25% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.9 g | ||
| Protein | 6.2 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 96 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 1292 mg | 27% | |
*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.
