Nothing beats the flavor of a fresh tomato, especially if you pick one straight from the garden. Whenever August rolls around I find myself with a surplus of these giant red gems in my backyard. Luckily, there are so many delicious possibilities to use fresh tomatoes, from tangy condiments to use year-round to refreshing salads to fuel your summer. Below, I’ve gathered some of my favorite fresh tomato recipes to put that excess bounty to good use.
1. Easy 3-Ingredient Tomato Soup
Sometimes, the most simple things in life are the best. Or at least tastiest- as evidenced by this easy 3-ingredient tomato soup. Butter, onions, and tomatoes come together to create this rich, velvety tomato soup. The butter adds a creamy texture while the onions and tomatoes bring a punchy flavor. Plus, you can use canned or fresh tomatoes depending on what you have on hand (or in your garden). Pair this cozy soup with a grilled cheese or slice of rosemary focaccia for an easy weeknight meal.
get the recipe2. Fresh Tomato Risotto with Grilled Greens
Have you ever wanted to try making risotto? It’s easier than you think. Risotto is one of those hack recipes that sounds super fancy, but it’s so simple to make. The actual risotto itself takes 6 ingredients: onion, garlic, wine, stock, rice, and, of course, fresh tomatoes. The only hard part about this dish is waiting, but prepare to be rewarded for your patience. The richness of the fresh tomatoes is absorbed directly into the rice, creating a rich, tangy flavor. Paired with hearty grilled vegetables, this wholesome dish is a colorful medley begging to be served at your dinner table.
get the recipe3. Green Tomato Chutney
I always reach for this recipe whenever I have green, end-of-season tomatoes kicking around. This tangy condiment combines jalapenos, shallots, ginger, and green bell pepper to create a punchy, flavorful sauce. Use this amazing chutney on sandwiches, wraps, scrambled eggs- the sky’s the limit. You can also customize the spice level to your liking. Seed the jalapenos first for a milder version, or leave them intact for a fiery kick.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes
Unripe green tomatoes are the star of this classic Southern dish. The normally tart tomatoes are transformed into a crispy, tangy masterpiece that will leave your mouth wanting more. The best part has to be the Cajun-spiced breading that offers a crave-worthy crunch with every bite. Plus this recipe is very straightforward to follow. Just slice, bread, and fry- it’s as easy as that.
get the recipe5. The Best Italian Tomato Sauce
Want to taste an authentic Italian tomato sauce that’s been passed down through generations? This sauce is the real deal, with a rich tangy flavor, subtle sweetness, and velvety texture. The secret is letting it slow cook so the flavors deepen and develop over time. It’s a straightforward recipe that just requires a little time. Why not try it on a lazy Sunday afternoon? It will make your kitchen smell divine.
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If the tomatoes in your garden are coming in hot, try making this savory tomato pie. The process is simple: layer tomato slices, basil, and onion in a pre-baked pie shell, then top with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. After a quick bake, you’ll have a golden, bubbly pie that’s light enough for a hot summer day, but comforting enough to indulge in on those cooler nights. It’s best served fresh, but you can store and heat some up for a quick, tasty breakfast the next morning.
get the recipe7. Tomato Bisque
Who doesn’t love a good tomato bisque? It’s a hit with picky eaters and soup connoisseurs alike. Plus it brings a good punch of nutrition with each bowl. You thicken the soup with whole wheat flour, which adds a little extra protein and fiber to this recipe. Half and half is responsible for the heavenly, creamy flavor, but you can also swap in almond or oat milk for a vegan version. This heartwarming soup is perfect for freezing and reheating. Make a big batch for easy dinners or lunches throughout the month.
get the recipe8. Fresh Tomato Salad
I get it, on those hot summer days, the last thing you want to do is cook. That’s where this breezy salad comes in. You toss ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced onions, and fresh herbs in a simple oil and vinegar dressing to create this refreshing dish. Whether you need a quick side or a light lunch, this recipe can do both. Best of all, the versatility is boundless. Add feta cheese or bocconcini for some creaminess to play off the acidity. Or add in extra veggies from your garden for more texture. No matter what you toss in, this zesty salad can handle it.
get the recipe9. Easy Tomato Jam
Your pantry isn’t complete without a jar of this tomato jam. It’s one of those condiments you don’t think about until you try, then you can’t get enough of the stuff. Each smear of this jam is sweet, tangy, spicy, and sticky. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or serving with charcuterie. Making this condiment is a breeze; combine tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, and spices in a saucepan then cook until it reaches a jammy consistency. And voila! You now have a sweet and savory jam to liven up any dish.
get the recipe10. Oven “Sun-Dried” Tomatoes
This recipe for oven “sun-dried” tomatoes is a fun, easy way to preserve the taste of summer. You slow-roast fresh tomatoes until they’re sweet and chewy, then store them in olive oil for extra flavor. Add your favorite spices for a tasty spin. Imagine how well basil or rosemary would pair with these tomatoes. Or try adding a sprinkling of sumac for a bright, Mediterranean twist. Whether enjoyed with sandwiches, salads, or pasta, these tomatoes will make a welcome addition to your condiment drawer.
get the recipe11. Cucumber Tomato Salad
Have you reached the mid-August temps? Cool off with this cucumber tomato salad. Crisp cukes, juicy tomatoes, and slivers of red onion offer a wave of refreshing flavors, complimented by the tangy vinaigrette. You can add feta cheese or avocado to bulk up the salad for lunch, or just serve as-is for a light side dish. Next time you’re prepping for a picnic or BBQ, add this salad to the menu.
get the recipe12. Tomato Rice Recipe (Indian Style)
This one-pot tomato rice dish lets you savor the flavors of South India without having to leave your kitchen. It’s spicy, aromatic, and tangy in all the right places. You can easily make this simple recipe in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, or just whip out your go-to stovetop pot. Ripe tomatoes, spices, and herbs bring a bunch of flavor to the fragrant basmati rice. Add extra veggies or protein to boost the nutrition of this 20-minute recipe.
get the recipe13. Chinese Tomato Egg Stir-Fry
Wanna whip up a comforting, home-cooked meal in just 10 minutes? With this Chinese tomato egg stir-fry in your back pocket, you can make it happen. It’s a simple combination of tangy tomatoes and fluffy scrambled eggs, seasoned with sesame oil and Shaoxing wine for an extra burst of complexity. Add some scallions or other veggies if you have them on hand, but if not, don’t sweat it. This recipe is delicious as-is. Plus it’s budget-friendly and healthy!
get the recipe14. Homemade Tomato Juice
This homemade tomato juice is healthy and refreshing, and you can make it in a sinch. Simmer ripe garden tomatoes with celery and onion, then strain the mixture for a smooth finish. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to adjust the sugar and Tabasco sauce to your taste. It’s a great way to use up an overabundance of tomatoes in your garden, and it tastes way better than the store-bought stuff.
get the recipe15. Roasted Tomatoes
These slow-roasted tomatoes are chewy, tart, and rich in umami. And the recipe could not be easier, only requiring tomatoes, olive oil, and salt. You can adjust the roasting time based on the size of your tomatoes and your preferred level of “shrivel”. Whether you want to enhance pizza, pasta, sandwiches, or salads, these roasted tomatoes are a flavor-boosting hit.
get the recipe16. Mozzarella and Basil Stuffed Tomatoes
Do you love margarita pizza? If the answer is yes, then you need to try these mozzarella and basil-stuffed tomatoes. They offer everything you love about your favorite type of pizza with less bread. Even if you’re not carb-conscious, these stuffed tomatoes still score a homerun in the flavor department. Each bite bursts with juicy tomatoes, stretchy cheese, and bright herbs. Serve them as a stand-alone app or easy side dish at your next dinner party and watch them fly off the plates.
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What’s not to love about this French tomato tart? Between the layers of ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, tangy Dijon mustard, and creamy goat cheese, you’re looking at one sensational bite. You bake this bad boy until the cheese is beautifully browned and the tomatoes are tender. A drizzle of honey drizzle adds a hint of sweetness that complements the savory elements. It’s a perfect summertime fare that brings the sunny south of France to your kitchen.
get the recipe18. Tomato Chutney
This tomato chutney needs to be a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for pairing with Indian cuisine or jazzing up a charcuterie board. Each taste sings with fresh tomatoes, aromatic spices, tangy vinegar, and a hint of brown sugar. The fusion of sweet and savory flavors makes this chutney a real standout in the kitchen.
get the recipe19. Okra and Tomatoes – a Southern Classic
After tasting this okra and tomatoes, you’ll have Southern comfort food on the brain. This soothing dish combines stewed tomatoes and okra with bacon, onion, and garlic. Whether you’re looking for a light main course or an easy side dish, this recipe can do it all. You can also add shrimp or sausage for a heartier meal.
get the recipe20. Creamy Tomato Pasta
Who doesn’t love indulging in a comforting pasta dish? Luckily for you, this creamy tomato pasta is as easy as it is satisfying. It features al dente bow-tie pasta enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce, with hints of onion and garlic for extra flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a whisper of heat, while a splash of cream lends a luxurious richness. Finished with fresh basil and a dusting of Parmesan, this recipe does not skimp out on bold flavors.
get the recipe21. Homemade Fresh Salsa Recipe
After trying this homemade salsa, you’ll have a hard time going back to store-bought. Not only does this recipe taste way better, but you can whip it up in just 5 minutes. The blend of tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeno, and garlic promises to enhance any Mexican-inspired meal. A dash of lime juice adds a tangy twist, while the sea salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that will level up your kitchen game for sure.
get the recipe22. Baked Feta Pasta
Did you miss out on the trendy baked feta pasta? Well, it’s never too late to jump on the deliciously creamy bandwagon. This recipe combines tangy feta cheese with sweet cherry tomatoes, both baked to perfection. The gooey concoction coats tender pasta in the most mouthwatering way, creating a rich, flavorful bite. And if that’s not good enough, this recipe is simple to make and hands-off.
get the recipe23. Quick Pickled Green Tomatoes
Here’s another way to use up those green tomatoes lurking in your garden. By pickling your leftover bounty, you can transform a late harvest of green tomatoes into a tangy, briny condiment. The quick pickling process requires no special equipment and takes only 15 to 20 minutes of hands-on time. The only hard part is waiting 24 hours for the flavors to mingle before digging in.
get the recipe24. Skillet Tomato Chicken
Skillet tomato chicken is one of those meals I keep in my weeknight dinner rotation. Between the juicy chicken, pop of capers, and zesty garlic, it’s just so wonderfully tasty. But the real star of the show is the cherry tomatoes, which caramelize beautifully and add a touch of sweetness. This one-pan wonder is quick to prepare and loaded with nutrients to boot.
get the recipe25. Fresh Tomato Bruschetta
Bruschetta has to be one of my favorite ways to enjoy fresh tomatoes. The combination of zesty basil, fragrant olive oil, and juicy tomatoes enhances the grilled bread to perfection. Don’t forget to rub a clove of garlic over the toasty bread to impart even more flavor.
get the recipe26. Homemade Marinara Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
Nothing beats a homemade marinara sauce. The blend of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs may seem simple, but the flavor is anything but. Expect a chunky, savory sauce bursting with garden freshness. It’s perfect for pasta, eggplant parmesan, or even as a base for a ratatouille. Plus, it’s a great way to increase your intake of lycopene, a potent antioxidant. Who knew healthy could taste so good?
get the recipe27. Cheesy Tomato Bread
Ever been tempted to pick up one of those frozen French bread pizzas at the grocery store? Ditch the over-processed option and make this recipe instead. It tastes so much better and it’s still almost as easy to whip up. Just slice a baguette, smear a healthy dose of butter on top, then layer it with tomatoes, cheese, and spices. Each bite brings a burst of juicy tomato flavor along with stretchy mozzarella cheese and chewy bread. I mean, what sounds better than that?
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