The challenge is that the tomatoes are packed so tightly together that some are partially hidden, which creates an optical illusion. Common answers include 12 or 13. The exact count is disputed, and the resulting “answer” often depends on how you interpret the overlapping shapes .
🍅 Recipe: Quick Roasted Tomato Sauce
Since we are talking about a plate of fresh tomatoes, here is a simple recipe for a classic sauce that works well with any small variety:
· Ingredients: 2 lbs of small tomatoes (halved), 3 cloves of garlic, 3 tbsp of olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
· Instructions:
- Roast: Toss the tomatoes and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until they burst.
- Blend: Transfer the roasted mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to purée it to your desired consistency.
- Simmer: Pour the sauce into a pan and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Stir in fresh basil before serving.
⚖️ Nutrition Note
Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins C and K, and are rich in the antioxidant lycopene, which is linked to several health benefits.