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Tomato and Herb Crumble

This dish features ripe tomatoes topped with toasted breadcrumbs and fresh herbs, baked until the tomatoes are softened and the breadcrumb topping is golden and crispy. The final dish presents a vibrant, rustic appearance with a tender tomato base and a crunchy topping that offers a satisfying textural contrast.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Provence-inspired
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups ripe tomatoes chopped
  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs toasted in dry pan
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted

Equipment

  • Baking dish or ovenproof skillet
  • Frying pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop the tomatoes into halves or quarters for easier handling and set aside.
  2. Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, just about 30 seconds, until it releases a warm aroma.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes to the garlic and cook gently for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release some juice. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper for flavor.
  4. While the tomato mixture simmers, toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  5. Mix the melted butter into the toasted breadcrumbs to coat evenly, creating a crispy topping with a buttery flavor.
  6. Transfer the cooked tomato mixture into a baking dish or ovenproof skillet, spreading it out into an even layer.
  7. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the tomato mixture, covering it completely for a crispy crown.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. The aroma of herbs and toasted breadcrumbs will fill your kitchen.
  10. Serve warm, spooned onto plates, enjoying the contrast of tender tomatoes and crunchy topping with fresh herbs on top.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar before serving.