sweet roasted tomatoes

When Manu worked here in Barletta, he would come home every day for lunch, as custom permits. He loved that 1-5 break to eat and sleep, but now that he commutes to Bari, about 40 minutes away, he doesn't have the luxury of coming home. He calls me when he goes down to the local bistro for a quick bite and we chat about what we're having. Yup, he's usually jealous of what I'm whipping up in our miniscule kitchen.

Yesterday I had a few mediocre tomatoes, so I roasted them. Roasting brings out new flavors; bland or mealy tomatoes turn sweet and super juicy. I topped them with what we had on hand: parsley, oregano, garlic, fresh parmigiano, salt, pepper, olive oil. After that I gave them a good chop and tossed with with angel hair pasta. A lunch for one that stood out from the rest!

Sweet Roasted Tomatoes

Slice tomatoes horizontally so they can sit up. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and whatever herbs you desire. I like a mix of parsley, oregano, garlic and fresh grated cheese. Drizzle with good olive oil and another  sprinkle of salt and pepper. Roast at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes or until soft and bubbly. Serve as a side dish, chopped up and tossed with pasta or however you wish. 

Hm, now I'm wondering what I'll make for myself today. Any suggestions? Where and what do you usually have for lunch? 

P.S. Something that you probably didn't know about Italians here!