Sweet Basil-Infused Tomato Melange

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. Prepare Tomatoes

Peel and core the tomatoes. This step is essential because removing the skin and core allows the tomatoes to absorb the flavors more deeply and ensures a smoother texture.

3. Arrange Basil

Scatter a few basil sprigs evenly across the bottom of a baking dish that is just large enough to hold the tomatoes snugly. This will infuse the dish with a subtle, aromatic hint of basil as it bakes.

4. Arrange Tomatoes

Arrange the peeled and cored tomatoes, core side down, over the basil in the baking dish. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the tomatoes to enhance their natural sweetness and bring out their full flavor.

5. Add Olive Oil

Pour about ½ cup of olive oil over the tomatoes. The olive oil not only adds richness but also helps to concentrate and intensify the flavors as the tomatoes bake.

6. Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. You’ll know the tomatoes are ready when they are lightly browned on top and completely tender.

7. Serve

When the tomatoes are done, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Serve the tomatoes warm, and don’t forget to save the flavorful oil left behind in the dish. This infused oil can be used to make a delightful vinaigrette or drizzled over bread for an extra touch of deliciousness.