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Provençal-style tomatoes

The Provençal tomato is a tomato variety known for its intense flavor, meaty texture, and versatility in the kitchen. Originally from the Provence region in southern France, this tomato has become a star ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, especially in dishes that call for a balanced touch of sweetness and acidity.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 people
Course: Aperitivo
Cuisine: Francés
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 tomatoes
  • salt
  • pepper
  • 1 bunch parsley
  • 1 head garlic
  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • 1 oven tray
  • 1 knife
  • 1 cutting board

Method
 

  1. 1. Wash and remove the stem from the tomatoes. Cut them in half widthwise.
  2. 2. Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 6. Arrange the tomatoes in the previously greased dish, cut side up.
  3. 3. Salt, pepper. Blend the parsley leaves, garlic cloves and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the tomatoes.
  4. 4. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 45 min and done!

Notes

Chef's tip

For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a pinch of Provençal herbs (thyme or rosemary) to the breadcrumb mixture. For an even juicier version, add a pinch of sugar over the tomatoes before baking to balance the acidity.

Nutrition (per 100g)

  • Calories: ~75 kcal
  • Protein: 1.5g
  • Fat: 5g (mainly from the olive oil)
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g

Benefits of Provençal-style tomatoes

  • Rich in lycopene: Cooked tomato is an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects the heart and skin.
  • Cardiovascular health: Garlic and olive oil help regulate cholesterol and improve circulation.
  • Low in saturated fat: A healthy, light option to pair with any dish.

Benefits according to Traditional Chinese Medicine

  • Tomato: Of a cooling nature, it helps generate bodily fluids, quenches thirst and cools the blood.
  • Garlic: Of a warm, pungent nature, it warms the digestive system, eliminates toxins and mobilizes stagnant Qi.
  • Parsley: Helps harmonize the stomach and supports the digestion of food.
  • Olive oil: Nourishes Yin and lubricates the intestines, easing transit.
Together, this dish balances the tomato's cooling nature with the garlic's warmth, creating a harmonious recipe that supports digestion without overheating the body.