Oven Roasted Tomatillos Recipe
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Roasted tomatillos are a fantastic addition to any meal, bringing a unique tangy flavor that sets them apart from tomatoes. This easy recipe transforms them into a delicious side dish or a flavorful base for salsa. Perfect for those looking to try something new and healthy, roasted tomatillos are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Roasted Tomatillos
- Incredible Flavor: Roasting tomatillos brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their tangy flavor. The slight char from the oven adds a smoky depth, making them irresistible.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Just a few minutes of prep, and the oven does the rest, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Dish: Roasted tomatillos can be enjoyed as a side dish or blended into a delicious salsa. Their unique taste pairs well with a variety of main courses.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Tomatillos are low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals. Roasting them with a touch of olive oil keeps the dish healthy and full of nutrients.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a family meal, roasted tomatillos are a great addition. Their vibrant flavor and simple preparation make them a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients For Roasted Tomatillos
- Tomatillos: The star of the dish, tomatillos have a tangy flavor that becomes rich and sweet when roasted.
- Olive Oil: Helps to coat the tomatillos evenly, ensuring they roast beautifully and develop a deep flavor.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the tomatillos.
- Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice to balance the tanginess.
- Garlic Powder (Optional): Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the tomatillos perfectly.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Roasted Tomatillos
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Baking Sheet: Provides a flat surface for roasting the tomatillos evenly.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents the tomatillos from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup easier.
- Large Bowl: Useful for tossing the tomatillos with olive oil and seasonings before roasting.
How To Make Roasted Tomatillos
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Remove the husks from the tomatillos and wash them under running water until the sticky film is gone.
- Place the cleaned tomatillos on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle the tomatillos with olive oil and rub them to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Roast the tomatillos in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they are soft and the skins are charred.
- Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve roasted tomatillos alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a tangy and flavorful side.
- Salsa: Blend the roasted tomatillos with onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice to create a delicious homemade salsa.
- Tacos: Add roasted tomatillos to your tacos for an extra burst of flavor.
- Salad: Chop the roasted tomatillos and add them to salads for a unique twist.
- Soup: Use roasted tomatillos as a base for a tangy and refreshing tomatillo soup.
Tips For Success
- Choosing Tomatillos: Select firm tomatillos with bright green husks. Avoid any with blemishes or soft spots.
- Removing the Husk: Peel the husks off the tomatillos and rinse them under running water to remove the sticky residue. This helps in achieving an even roast.
- Even Coating: Make sure to coat the tomatillos evenly with olive oil. You can use a brush or your hands to ensure they are well-coated, which helps in achieving a deep, roasted flavor.
- Seasoning: While this recipe uses simple salt and pepper, feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Garlic powder, cumin, or chili powder can add extra layers of flavor.
- Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the tomatillos while they roast. They should be soft with charred skins, which usually takes about 25 minutes. If they start to blacken too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly.
- Cooling: Allow the roasted tomatillos to cool slightly before handling. This makes them easier to work with if you plan to blend them into salsa or chop them for other recipes.
- Blending: If making salsa, blend the tomatillos while they are still warm for a smoother texture. Add other ingredients like onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice to enhance the flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be used in various dishes like salads, and soups, or as a topping for grilled meats.
Variations And Substitutions
- Spicy Roasted Tomatillos: Add a bit of heat by sprinkling the tomatillos with chili powder or cayenne pepper before roasting. You can also roast them alongside sliced jalapeños for extra spice.
- Herb-Infused: For a fragrant twist, toss the tomatillos with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or oregano before roasting. The herbs will infuse the tomatillos with additional flavor.
- Garlic-Lover’s: If you love garlic, add a few whole garlic cloves to the baking sheet. They will roast alongside the tomatillos and can be blended into salsa or served whole for a sweet, roasted garlic addition.
- Citrus Zest: For a fresh and zesty variation, sprinkle some lime or lemon zest over the tomatillos before roasting. The citrus will brighten the flavors and add a pleasant aroma.
- Smoky Flavor: Enhance the smoky flavor by adding a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the seasoning mix. This gives the roasted tomatillos a deeper, more complex taste.
- Different Oils: Experiment with different oils like avocado oil or coconut oil for a subtle change in flavor. Each oil brings its own unique taste and nutritional benefits.
- Vegan and Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free, but you can always add a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of dairy-free cheese when serving for extra richness.
- Low-Sodium: For a lower sodium option, reduce the amount of salt or use a salt substitute. You can also enhance the flavor with additional herbs and spices instead of relying on salt.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover roasted tomatillos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To extend their shelf life, you can freeze roasted tomatillos. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat roasted tomatillos, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are hot.
- Using Leftovers: Leftover roasted tomatillos can be used in various dishes. Blend them into a salsa, add them to soups or stews, or chop them and mix into salads. They can also be a great addition to tacos or burritos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tomatillos that aren’t fully ripe?
Yes, you can use tomatillos that are slightly underripe. They will have a firmer texture and a more tangy flavor, which can add a nice contrast to the dish. Roasting will soften them and bring out their natural sweetness.
Do I need to peel the tomatillos before roasting?
Yes, it’s important to remove the husks from the tomatillos and wash them under running water to remove the sticky film. This ensures they roast evenly and develop the best flavor.
Can I roast tomatillos on the stovetop instead of in the oven?
While roasting in the oven is recommended for even cooking, you can also roast tomatillos on the stovetop. Use a dry skillet over medium-high heat and turn them occasionally until they are charred and soft.
How can I tell when the tomatillos are done roasting?
The tomatillos are done when their skins are charred, and they are soft to the touch. This usually takes about 25 minutes at 425°F. If they start to blacken too quickly, you can reduce the oven temperature slightly.
What can I do with roasted tomatillos besides making salsa?
Roasted tomatillos are versatile and can be used in many dishes. Add them to soups, stews, and salads, or use them as a topping for tacos and burritos. They can also be pureed into sauces or dips.
Are roasted tomatillos healthy?
Yes, roasted tomatillos are a healthy addition to your diet. They are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium. Using olive oil in the roasting process adds healthy fats, making this dish nutritious and delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to roast with the tomatillos?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or garlic cloves to the baking sheet. These will roast alongside the tomatillos and add more depth and variety to the dish.
How do I make roasted tomatillo salsa?
To make roasted tomatillo salsa, blend the roasted tomatillos with onions, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt. Adjust the ingredients to taste, and blend until you reach your desired consistency. This salsa can be served with chips, tacos, or grilled meats.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make roasted tomatillos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat them before serving or use them directly in recipes that call for roasted tomatillos.
What is the difference between tomatillos and green tomatoes?
Tomatillos and green tomatoes are different fruits. Tomatillos have a husk and a tangy, slightly acidic flavor, while green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes with a firmer texture and a more tart taste. They are not interchangeable in recipes.
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Roasted Tomatillos
Recipe Video
Ingredients
- 1 lb tomatillos husked and washed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder optional
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- 1 Large bowl
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Remove the husks from the tomatillos and wash them under running water to remove the sticky film.
- Place the tomatillos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the tomatillos with olive oil and rub them to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the tomatillos are soft and the skin is charred.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Roasted tomatillos can be enjoyed as a side dish or blended into a salsa.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
Nutrition
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