Scalloped Tomatoes is a comforting and flavorful dish that makes the most of ripe, juicy tomatoes combined with crusty bread, garlic, and fresh herbs. This Southern-inspired side dish has a rich, tangy sweetness from the tomatoes, balanced by the crunch of the bread and the savory taste of Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for using up day-old bread and can accompany a variety of mains, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. This dish comes together easily and offers a delicious way to savor the end-of-summer tomato harvest.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (about 6-7 medium tomatoes)
- 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the tomatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes with sugar, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Set aside.
- Toast the bread: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed bread and toast, stirring occasionally, until the bread is golden and crispy. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Assemble the dish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the tomatoes. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, distributing it evenly. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and chopped basil over the top.
- Bake: Dot the top with small pieces of butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the tomatoes are bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired. Serve warm.
Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Scalloped Tomatoes!
