Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Honey, Parsley, Lemon Zest & Thyme
Sweet and juicy roasted cherry tomatoes tossed with honey, fresh parsley, lemon zest, and thyme, then roasted until tender and lightly caramelized. This quick and easy side dish adds bright, fresh flavor to salmon, chicken, pasta, or salads. Perfect for healthy meals, meal prep, and elegant entertaining.
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet or sheet pan
- 1 Parchment paper (or silicone baking mat)
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Zester or fine grater (for lemon zest)
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Sharp knife (for parsley and optional garlic)
- 1 Mixing spoon or spatula
- 1 Oven mitts
- 1 Small serving dish (for presentation or storage)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, or 1 tbsp dried
- ½ tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh
- Zest of ½ a lemon
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 garlic clove minced or a pinch of chili flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, toss tomatoes with olive oil, honey, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and any optional additions.
- Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking once halfway through, until the tomatoes are soft, wrinkled, and slightly caramelized.
- Cool slightly and serve warm or store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For the best roasted cherry tomatoes, use ripe, high-quality tomatoes and roast at a high temperature so they caramelize quickly and develop rich, sweet, and savory Mediterranean flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and juiciness.
- Roasting at 400°F (200°C) helps the tomatoes caramelize without becoming mushy.
- A small amount of honey enhances sweetness and balance, but can be adjusted or omitted if preferred.
- Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme give the most vibrant flavor, but dried herbs work well in a pinch.
- Add lemon zest at the end or before roasting for a brighter citrus finish.
- Optional garlic or chili flakes add depth and a subtle kick of heat.
- Serve warm for best flavor, or chill and use as a meal prep topping or salad addition.
- Great as a Mediterranean-style side dish, salmon topping, or pasta enhancer.
Nutrition
Serving: 180 gramsCalories: 66kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 10mgPotassium: 175mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 538IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 13mgIron: 1mg
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