Dehydrating Cherry Tomatoes

This post is all about dehydrating cherry tomatoes!

If you’re an avid gardener or simply a lover of fresh produce, you’ve likely faced the dilemma of having too many cherry tomatoes.

These sweet, juicy gems are prolific producers, often yielding more than we can use fresh.

Instead of letting these precious fruits go to waste, why not dehydrate them?

Dehydrating cherry tomatoes is a fantastic way to preserve their flavor and nutritional value, providing you with a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes throughout the year.

In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of dehydrating cherry tomatoes, guide you through the process, and offer some recipe ideas from other bloggers to inspire you.

Why Dehydrate Cherry Tomatoes?

Long Shelf Life: Dehydrated cherry tomatoes can last for months when stored properly, allowing you to enjoy the taste of summer long after the growing season has ended.

Concentrated Flavor: Drying cherry tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and flavor, making them a delicious addition to many dishes.

Versatility: Once dehydrated, cherry tomatoes can be rehydrated for use in recipes or enjoyed as a snack straight from the jar.

Space-Saving: Dehydrated tomatoes take up significantly less space than fresh ones, making them ideal for those with limited storage.

How to Dehydrate Cherry Tomatoes

Dehydrating cherry tomatoes is a straightforward process that can be done using a dehydrator or an oven. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Using a Dehydrator

Supplies Needed:

• Dehydrator
• Cherry tomatoes
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Non-stick dehydrator sheets or parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size and your preference. Smaller pieces will dehydrate more quickly and evenly.
2. Arrange on Trays: Place the tomato pieces on the dehydrator trays, cut side up. Ensure they are spaced out and not touching to allow for proper air circulation.
3. Dehydrate: Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C). Dry the tomatoes for 8-12 hours, checking occasionally. They are done when they are leathery but not brittle.
4. Cool and Store: Let the dehydrated tomatoes cool completely before storing them in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags. Store in a cool, dark place.

Using an Oven

Supplies Needed:

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cherry tomatoes
• Knife
• Cutting board

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and cut the cherry tomatoes as described above.
2. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Line baking sheets with parchment paper and place the tomatoes on them, cut side up.
3. Bake: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, usually around 140-170°F (60-75°C). Place the baking sheets in the oven and prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape. Dry the tomatoes for 6-12 hours, checking periodically.
4. Cool and Store: Let the tomatoes cool completely before storing them as described above.

Recipe Ideas Using Dehydrated Cherry Tomatoes

Dehydrated cherry tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless recipes. Here are a few ideas from other bloggers to get you started:

1. Pasta Salads: Rehydrate your dehydrated cherry tomatoes and toss them into pasta salads for a burst of flavor. Check out this Pasta Salad from Bon Appetit for inspiration.
2. Soups and Stews: Add dehydrated tomatoes directly to soups and stews. They will rehydrate as they cook, infusing the dish with their concentrated flavor. Try this Chicken and Tomato Stew from Simply Recipes.
3. Homemade Pizza: Use dehydrated tomatoes as a topping for homemade pizza. Their chewy texture and intense flavor make a great addition. This Margherita Pizza from Epicurious is a perfect base.
4. Snacks: Enjoy them as a healthy snack on their own or mix them into a trail mix with nuts and seeds.

FAQ

1. How long do dehydrated cherry tomatoes last?
When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, dehydrated cherry tomatoes can last up to a year.

2. Do I need to blanch cherry tomatoes before dehydrating?
Blanching is not necessary for cherry tomatoes. Simply wash, cut, and dehydrate.

3. How do I rehydrate dehydrated cherry tomatoes?
To rehydrate, soak the dried tomatoes in warm water for about 20-30 minutes until they are plump. Drain and use them as needed.

4. Can I season my cherry tomatoes before dehydrating?
Yes, you can sprinkle the tomatoes with salt, herbs, or spices before dehydrating to add extra flavor.

5. What is the best way to store dehydrated cherry tomatoes?
Store dehydrated cherry tomatoes in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags in a cool, dark place. For long-term storage, you can also freeze them.

Dehydrating cherry tomatoes is an excellent way to handle an abundant harvest and enjoy the taste of summer throughout the year.

Whether you’re adding them to your favorite pasta salad, enriching a hearty stew, or simply snacking on them, these versatile dried tomatoes are sure to become a staple in your pantry.

With the benefits of prolonged shelf life, concentrated flavor, and space-saving storage, dehydrating cherry tomatoes is a practical and delicious solution for any home gardener or tomato lover.

For more dehydrating tips and recipes, be sure to check out my other posts on Naturally Jamie.

Happy dehydrating!