Gifts Wrapped in Glass: Day 10

I hope this series on Gifts Wrapped in Glass has been full of inspiration for you. I am pleased to have shelves full of great things to give at a moments notice. I feel very organized this year!

This jar, is a little different from the others however. This jar, is rather perishable. I call these the

  Italian Gift Jars. 

They are my all time favorite Gift in a Jar.

The jars contain fresh roasted tomatoes packed in olive oil.  Author Francis Mayes talks about making jars such as these on a weekly basis while living in Italy. I have always wanted to go to Italy.

I have this little obsession with all things Italian. You may think these tomatoes are a seasonal thing, but it's easy to make them year round by substituting canned tomatoes for fresh, and using dried herbs.

When using fresh tomatoes, core and slice them into thick 1/2" slices. Spread tomatoes flat on a cookie sheet. Drizzle heavily with olive oil, I use at least a cup of oil per tray.

Sprinkle heavily with chopped garlic, I use about 12-15 tablespoons per tray.

Spread chopped herbs such as basil, oregano, thyme and rosemary on top. I use big handfuls from the garden, at least a handful of each herb. Probably 3-4 tablespoons of dried herbs.

The object is to COMPLETELY COVER THE TOMATOES WITH ALL THESE YUMMY THINGS.

Then you put the trays in the oven and roast them at 250 degrees for 2 hours.

Beware, your mouth is guaranteed to water during this process.

Slide the roasted tomatoes into a wide mouth Mason Jar when cool. I love the pint sized jars with the snap on lid for this purpose. I add a bit of extra oil if the tomatoes aren't completely covered. The oil helps preserve the fruit. These jars will keep in the refrigerator for about a week. 

I use these for many things in the kitchen. Chop them in the blender for spaghetti sauce, chop them to add to bruschetta, add them to BLT sandwiches or chili. They are yummy in omelets or baked egg dishes as well. They are great to have on hand, and make a wonderful gift for someone else.

If it's not during the garden season, you can make these jars with whole plum canned tomatoes. Simply drain the liquid off the tomatoes, slice and roast. 

Tune in tomorrow for more Gifts Wrapped in Glass!