Dehydrated tomatoes are like little bites of sunshine. They take the juicy, vibrant flavor of fresh tomatoes and concentrate it into a chewy, delicious snack. Making them at home is easy and a fantastic way to preserve tomatoes when they're in season. Plus, you get to enjoy that rich tomato taste all year round.
Whether you have a garden overflowing with tomatoes or just picked up too many at the store, dehydrating them is a simple solution. You don't need much—just some tomatoes, a bit of seasoning, and a dehydrator or oven. It's a no-fuss process that leads to a versatile and tasty result.
Why This Recipe Works
This dehydrated tomatoes recipe is a game-changer because it transforms an abundant seasonal produce into a gourmet ingredient that you can enjoy any time. The slow drying process intensifies the tomato's natural flavors, making them even more delicious and versatile. These tomato gems are not just snacks; they're power-packed with concentrated tomato goodness, making them perfect for enhancing the flavors in your cooking. The addition of herbs and a hint of garlic amplifies their taste, making them a fantastic addition to dishes that need a bit of a flavor kick.
Moreover, dehydrating tomatoes is incredibly cost-effective and sustainable. Instead of letting excess tomatoes go to waste, you can preserve them in this delicious form. They require minimal storage space and can last for months, ensuring you have a stash of flavorful tomatoes ready to use in your kitchen. Whether you're tossing them into a pasta, sprinkling them on a pizza, or rehydrating them for a sauce, these dehydrated tomatoes bring a depth of flavor that fresh tomatoes simply can't match during the off-season. It's a simple process with outstanding results, making it a must-try for anyone who loves cooking with tomatoes.
Ingredients
Roma Tomatoes: Firm and less juicy, making them ideal for dehydrating. Substitute: Cherry tomatoes for a sweeter, snack-sized option.
Olive Oil:Adds flavor and helps preserve the tomatoes. Substitute: Avocado oil for a milder taste.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the tomatoes. Substitute: Herbed salt for additional flavor.
Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor. Substitute: Onion powder for a different but complementary taste.
Italian Herbs: A mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a Mediterranean flavor. Substitute: Dried rosemary or marjoram for variation.
Tips
- Cut the tomatoes evenly to ensure uniform drying.
- Remove seeds to reduce moisture and speed up the drying process.
- Place tomatoes skin side down on the dehydrator trays to prevent sticking.
- Store dehydrated tomatoes in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to extend shelf life.
- Rehydrate tomatoes in olive oil or water before use for a plumper texture.
How to Serve
Dehydrated tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a myriad of dishes. Their concentrated tomato flavor and slight chewiness add depth to any meal.
- In Pasta Dishes: Chop them up and toss them into pasta sauces or sprinkle over a fresh pasta salad for a burst of flavor.
- As a Pizza Topping: Rehydrate slightly and use as a topping on homemade pizzas or flatbreads for a sun-dried tomato effect.
- In Baked Goods: Incorporate into bread, focaccia, or scones for a savory treat with a Mediterranean twist.
Similar Recipes
Dehydrated Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 10 Roma tomatoes halved and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
- Slice the Roma tomatoes in half lengthwise and gently remove the seeds with a spoon.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
- Brush each tomato half lightly with the olive oil mixture.
- Place the tomato halves skin side down on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they are not touching.
- Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) for 6-8 hours or until the tomatoes are dry but still pliable.
- Allow the tomatoes to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Nutrition
Notes
• Remove seeds to reduce moisture and speed up the drying process.
• Place tomatoes skin side down on the dehydrator trays to prevent sticking.
• Store dehydrated tomatoes in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to extend shelf life.
• Rehydrate tomatoes in olive oil or water before use for a plumper texture.