Introduction
If you’re looking to elevate your appetizer game, this roasted tomato and garlic sauce is a delightful option. With a balance of savory spices and a hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for pairing with empanadas or as a dip for your favorite snacks. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the aromatic goodness of garlic, creating a sauce that’s versatile enough for various dishes.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 medium tomatoes (approximately 125g/4oz each), halved and cored
2 garlic cloves, peeled
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon white sugar
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice (or substitute with lemon juice or vinegar)
2 tablespoons sliced green onion
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
Approximately 1 cup of sauce
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F (200°C fan).
2. In a bowl, toss the halved tomatoes with olive oil. Place them cut side up on a baking tray and roast for 20 minutes.
3. After 20 minutes, add the peeled garlic cloves to the tray. Continue roasting for an additional 15 minutes until the edges of the tomatoes are browned. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the tray.
4. Transfer the roasted tomatoes and garlic to a container suitable for a stick blender. Add cumin, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
5. Add the sliced green onion to the mixture and blend until finely chopped.
6. Pair the sauce with empanadas, or use it as a dip for corn chips, vegetable sticks, or bread.
Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Enjoy this delightful sauce at your next gathering!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 220°C/425°F (200°C for fan).
Roast tomatoes
In a bowl, combine the halved tomatoes with extra virgin olive oil, ensuring they’re well coated. Place the tomatoes cut side up on a baking tray. Roast them in the oven for 20 minutes.
Add garlic
After 20 minutes of roasting, take the tray out of the oven and add the peeled garlic cloves alongside the tomatoes. Return the tray to the oven and roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the tomatoes’ edges are browned. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the mixture to cool on the tray.
Blend ingredients
Transfer the cooled roasted tomatoes and garlic into a container that is suitable for a stick blender. Add ground cumin, ground cayenne pepper, white sugar, kosher salt, and lime juice. Use the stick blender to blend the mixture until it is smooth.
Incorporate green onion
Add the sliced green onion to the blended mixture. Blend again until the green onion is finely chopped and thoroughly incorporated.
Serve
This sauce pairs perfectly with empanadas, or serve it as a dip for corn chips, vegetable sticks, or bread.
Notes
Storage
Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Cook techniques
Roasting Tomatoes
Roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and creates a rich, flavorful base for sauces. Preheat the oven and ensure the tomatoes are cut side up to allow for even caramelization.
Infusing Flavors with Garlic
Adding garlic during the roasting process enhances the depth of flavor. By introducing the garlic halfway through roasting, it softens while avoiding over-browning.
Blending for Smoothness
Using a stick blender allows for a quick and easy way to achieve a smooth consistency. It blends all ingredients thoroughly to create a cohesive sauce.
Incorporating Fresh Ingredients
Adding fresh green onion after blending provides a crisp texture and bright flavor. This step elevates the overall taste and aroma of the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables instead of tomatoes?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers or roasted zucchini, but the flavor profile will change significantly.
What can I serve with this sauce?
This sauce is versatile and can be paired with empanadas, used as a dip for corn chips, vegetable sticks, or spread on bread.
How long can I store the leftover sauce?
Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Is there a way to adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
Yes, you can modify the amount of cayenne pepper to increase or decrease the heat according to your preference.
Conclusion
This roasted tomato and garlic sauce is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it can elevate various dishes while providing a healthy option made from fresh ingredients. Whether used as a dip or a sauce, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice that can be enjoyed in numerous ways.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Tomato Salsa
Combine the roasted sauce with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and extra lime juice for a vibrant salsa perfect for tacos or grilled meats.
Pasta Sauce
Mix the roasted tomato sauce with cooked pasta, a touch of cream, and grated parmesan for a creamy, comforting pasta dish.
Vegetable Stir-fry
Use the sauce as a base for a vegetable stir-fry, adding your choice of seasonal vegetables and protein like tofu or chicken.
Shakshuka
Pour the roasted tomato mixture into a skillet, create wells, and crack eggs into them. Cook until the eggs are set for a delicious shakshuka.
Soup Base
Blend the roasted sauce with vegetable or chicken broth and add your favorite vegetables to create a warming soup.
Marinade for Grilling
Use the sauce as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or vegetables before grilling for an added layer of flavor.
