Why You’ll Love Sun Dried Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

This recipe is easy and economical, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal hands‑on time. It brings out the intense flavor of cherry tomatoes and lets you enjoy summer produce all year long. Plus, it’s versatile—use the dried tomatoes in countless dishes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 cups cherry tomatoes or as many as you like
½–¾ teaspoon dried thyme
½–¾ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C) and position a rack in the center.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes.
Cut the tomatoes in half and place them in a mixing bowl.
Sprinkle the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the tomatoes and toss to coat.
Arrange the seasoned tomatoes cut side up on the baking sheet so they’re not touching.
Bake for 3–4 hours, until the tomatoes have shrunk, deepened in color, and feel slightly rubbery.
Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag for longer storage.

Servings and timing

Makes about 2 cups of dried cherry tomatoes.
Prep time: approximately 20 minutes
Cook time: 3–4 hours
Total time: 3 hours 20 minutes (approximate)

Variations

Herb‑infused: Add other dried herbs such as basil or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Oil‑packed: After drying, you can store the tomatoes in olive oil with garlic and herbs for extra richness.
Dehydrator method: Use a dehydrator set at a low temperature if you prefer not to use an oven.

Storage/Reheating

Store dried tomatoes in a sealed container in the freezer for long‑term storage. If kept in the refrigerator, use within a few days. To rehydrate, soak them in warm water, wine, or broth before adding to recipes.

FAQs

How long do sun dried cherry tomatoes last once dried?

Dried tomatoes can keep for several months in the freezer. In the refrigerator, they should be used within a few days unless packed in oil.

Can I dry cherry tomatoes without an oven?

Yes, a dehydrator can be used instead of an oven for a similar result.

Do I need to soak dried tomatoes before using them?

Soaking in warm liquid rehydrates the tomatoes and makes them tender for salads, sauces, or other dishes.

What dishes work well with sun dried tomatoes?

They’re great in pasta, frittatas, salads, breads, sandwiches, and grain bowls.

Can I use other tomato varieties?

Yes, larger tomatoes like Roma can also be dried using a similar method.

How do I know when the tomatoes are done drying?

They should be deeply colored, slightly wrinkled, and rubbery, not wet or squishy.

Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Try garlic powder, basil, or crushed red pepper for extra flavor.

Should I salt the tomatoes before drying?

Seasoning with salt enhances flavor but is optional based on your taste.

Can I store dried tomatoes in oil long‑term?

Storing in oil can extend fridge life slightly, but for long‑term storage it’s best to freeze first.

Are oven‑dried and sun‑dried tomatoes the same?

Oven‑dried tomatoes mimic traditional sun‑dried tomatoes, offering similar concentrated flavor even without using the sun.

Conclusion

This sun dried cherry tomatoes recipe is a simple, satisfying way to preserve the bright flavor of fresh tomatoes. With minimal prep and a slow oven‑drying process, you’ll create a versatile ingredient that enhances countless dishes throughout the year.