Tofu Meatballs in Burst Tomato Sauce

Name: Tofu Meatballs in Burst Tomato Sauce
Cuisine: European, Italian, Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more; 1 14-oz. package extra-firm tofu, drained, patted dry; 1 large egg; 7 garlic cloves, 3 finely grated, 4 thinly sliced; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp. dried oregano; ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes; 1 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about ½ cup), plus more for serving; 2½ tsp. Diamond Crystal or 1½ tsp. Morton kosher salt, divided, plus more; 1 large shallot, halved, thinly sliced; 2 Tbsp. double-concentrated tomato paste; Freshly ground black pepper; 1½ lb. cherry tomatoes (about 3 pints), halved if large