Every last bit of this dish was gone by the end of dinner. That's how tasty it was!

This recipe for baked marinated tomato slices with garlicky spinach and melted cheese on top is a delightful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer, even when the weather starts to cool down. I first stumbled upon this dish during a trip to a local farmer's market, where the vibrant colors of ripe tomatoes inspired me to create something simple yet satisfying. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick but still packed with flavor. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!

This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. If you're looking for something heartier, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. A glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea would complement the flavors perfectly.

Servings: 4

4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Arrange the tomato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle the marinade over the tomatoes and let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

While the tomatoes are marinating, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and sauté until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Top each tomato slice with a spoonful of the garlicky spinach, then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Sprinkle the dried oregano and basil over the cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

For a bit of a kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. If you're a fan of herbs, fresh basil or thyme can be used instead of dried. For a different cheese profile, swap out the mozzarella for feta or goat cheese. If you want to make this dish heartier, you can add some cooked quinoa or couscous to the spinach mixture before topping the tomatoes.