Description
Ina Garten’s basil scalloped tomatoes showcase summer’s finest produce with a perfect balance of crispy bread and juicy tomatoes. Garden-fresh ingredients meld into a rustic, irresistible side dish that you’ll crave at every seasonal gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups bread cubes (preferably from day-old bread)
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Flavor Enhancers:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating it to 350°F (175°C), ensuring an even temperature throughout.
- Create a flavorful coating for bread cubes by tossing them with of olive oil, finely minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until each cube is thoroughly seasoned.
- Craft a vibrant tomato mixture by combining diced ripe tomatoes, rich brown sugar, remaining olive oil, and freshly chopped basil leaves, stirring until ingredients are well integrated.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking, then arrange a uniform layer of seasoned bread cubes as the foundation of the dish.
- Carefully distribute the prepared tomato mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring an even spread across the entire surface.
- Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the tomato layer, creating a delectable cheesy topping.
- Position the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and bubbling tomatoes that indicate perfect doneness.
- Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the temperature settle before serving.
- Present as a versatile side dish or a light main course, optionally accompanied by a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for the best texture.
- Fresh basil adds brightness—don’t skip it.
- Perfect as a side or vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg