Tomato Spread with Garlic Butter and Herbs
This Tomato Spread with Garlic Butter and Herbs packs in the flavor! It has a deep tomato flavor that is earthy, bright, and velvety. Use it as a healthy snack with crusty bread, an appetizer, on a charcuterie board, or as a spread to liven up any sandwich or breakfast. It takes only 20 minutes and has only 6 main ingredients, but it'll bring those bold Italian flavors and aromas to the table.
Equipment
- Food processor optional
Ingredients
- 4 cups heirloom tomatoes, cut into quarters 4 cups is about 8 medium-sized tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional) to coat the pan
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp oregano minced
- 1 tbsp thyme minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt (more to taste)
Instructions
- Pour any excess liquid out of the 4 cups of quartered tomatoes. Heat up and coat a frying pan with oil. Once the pan is warmed up, add the tomatoes and simmer them on medium heat for about 5 minutes. While the tomatoes are cooking, mince the garlic and herbs in a food processor. (You don't need a food processor, but it makes the process faster.)
- Add the garlic, herbs, and salt to the tomato sauce. Turn the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes so that the sauce thickens. Taste and add salt if desired.
- Add the red pepper flakes (if using), the lemon, and the butter. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes or until it's thickened. It should not be watery. Taste again to season if necessary. Enjoy!
Notes
- PLAN AHEAD & STORAGE: The flavor will increase the longer you let it sit in the fridge. You can make it ahead, and let it sit for about 3- 5 days.
- SUGGESTIONS: You do not need to peel or deseed the tomatoes, unless you prefer to do so.
- VARIATIONS: You can use fresh or dried herbs, but I prefer fresh. You can mix and match the herbs, and substitute or add basil, but I prefer the oregano.
- Every tbsp. of fresh herbs equals a tsp. of dried herbs.
- Add a dollop of crème fraiche for a creamier flavor.