Provencal Tomatoes Recipe (Tomates Provençales)

When it comes to classic French cuisine, few side dishes are as beloved and delicious as Tomates Provençales, also called Tomates à la provençale, or Provençal tomatoes in English.

This simple yet flavorful dish originated in the Provence region of France and is a staple of French home cooking. Made with fresh, ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, Tomates Provençales is a perfect side dish for any meal, from a casual family dinner to an elegant dinner party. 

Today I’ll be sharing my take on this classic French dish, including tips and tricks for making the perfect Tomates Provençales. With its burst of fresh flavors and rustic charm, this dish is sure to impress your guests and transport you to the sunny hills of Provence.

Popularized by Julia Child, Ina Garten, and Jacques Pépin, this dish has satisfied countless hungry people around the world. So, let’s get cooking and explore how to make Tomates Provençales!

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Tomates Provençales just like your French grand-mère would make it:

Ingredients

4 large ripe tomatoes

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup olive oil

How to Make Tomates Provençales

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cut the tomatoes in half horizontally, scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon.

In a small bowl, combine the garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Spoon the breadcrumb mixture into each tomato half, pressing down gently to ensure the mixture sticks to the tomato.

Drizzle each tomato with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.

Bake the tomatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumb mixture is golden brown and the tomatoes are soft and cooked through.

Serve the Tomates Provençales hot or warm as a side dish or appetizer.

Seasoning

What kind of seasoning goes on tomates provençales? The dish is typically seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that are commonly found in the Provençal region of France. The specific seasonings used may vary depending on the recipe, but some common ingredients include:

• Herbes de Provence: This is a blend of dried herbs that typically include thyme, rosemary, oregano, savory, and sometimes lavender. It is a classic seasoning for Tomates Provençales.
• Garlic: Minced or chopped garlic adds a savory depth of flavor to the dish.
• Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are often mixed with herbs and spices to create a flavorful topping for the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings are used to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Olive oil: Drizzling the tomatoes with olive oil before baking helps to create a crispy crust and adds a rich, fruity flavor to the dish.

Some recipes may also call for additional ingredients such as grated Parmesan cheese or anchovy filets, which can add a salty, umami flavor to the dish.

What to Serve with Tomates Provençales

Tomates Provençales is a delicious French dish that consists of baked tomatoes with herbs and breadcrumbs. It can be served as a side dish or as a light main course. Here are some suggestions for what to serve with Tomates Provençales:

1. Crusty bread: A fresh baguette or other crusty bread would be perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato juices.
2. Green salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing would complement the rich, savory flavors of the dish.
3. Grilled chicken: Grilled chicken or other meats would make a nice addition to the meal and provide some protein.
4. Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers would complement the dish and add some variety to the meal.
5. Rice or quinoa: Serving Tomates Provençales with rice or quinoa would make it a more substantial meal and provide some healthy carbohydrates.

Enjoy your delicious tomates provençales!