Cherry tomatoes are a delightful ingredient that can elevate many dishes. These tiny, sweet tomatoes add bursts of flavor to salads, pasta, and appetizers. They’re versatile and easy to work with, making them a favorite for both experienced cooks and beginners.
You’ll find plenty of ways to use cherry tomatoes in your cooking with these 30 tasty recipes. From simple salads to hearty main courses, there’s something for every taste and skill level. These recipes will help you make the most of cherry tomatoes, whether you grow them yourself or pick them up at the store.
Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes is a quick and tasty dish you can make in just 10 minutes. It’s a fresh twist on the classic Italian recipe.
You’ll need cherry tomatoes, small mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle olive oil over the ingredients and season with salt and black pepper.
For extra flavor, try adding a balsamic glaze. Some recipes include a honey balsamic dressing to balance the flavors.
This salad is perfect for summer and fits well with low-carb or keto diets. It’s a simple way to enjoy the sweet taste of cherry tomatoes in a light, refreshing meal.
Cherry tomato pasta is a quick and tasty dish you can easily make at home. Start by boiling pasta in salted water until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to burst.
Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding pasta water if needed for a silky sauce.
Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. This simple meal combines sweet tomatoes with savory cheese and herbs for a delicious dinner.
Roasting cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious side dish or ingredient. To make them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. You can also add herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
Toss the tomatoes to coat them evenly. Spread them out in a single layer on the sheet. Roast for 15-25 minutes, until the skins soften and start to wrinkle.
You can serve roasted cherry tomatoes warm or at room temperature. They’re great on their own, tossed with pasta, or added to salads and sandwiches.
A tomato and basil tart makes a perfect summer dish. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Use a pre-made tart shell or puff pastry for convenience.
Spread a layer of pesto on the bottom of the tart shell. Add caramelized onions for extra flavor. Arrange cherry tomatoes on top, covering the entire surface.
Sprinkle crumbled feta or sliced mozzarella over the tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Brush the edges of the pastry with olive oil.
Bake the tart for about 20 minutes, until the crust is golden and the tomatoes are softened. Let it cool slightly before serving. This tart works great as an appetizer or light meal.
This simple salad combines juicy cherry tomatoes with creamy avocado for a fresh and delicious dish. You’ll love the bright flavors and contrasting textures.
To make it, cut cherry tomatoes in half and dice ripe avocados. Add thinly sliced red onion for a zesty bite. Toss everything together in a bowl.
For the dressing, whisk olive oil with lemon juice or lime juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix.
You can customize this salad by adding extras like crumbled feta cheese, chopped cilantro, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve it right away for the best flavor and texture.
Tomato confit is a delicious way to preserve cherry tomatoes. You slow-cook them in olive oil with garlic and herbs. This brings out their natural sweetness and creates a rich flavor.
To make tomato confit, place cherry tomatoes in a baking dish. Add garlic cloves, fresh herbs like rosemary or basil, and a pinch of salt. Pour quality olive oil over everything.
Bake at a low temperature for about 1.5 hours. The tomatoes will become soft and slightly wrinkled. Their flavors will intensify during cooking.
You can use tomato confit in many ways. Spread it on toast, mix it into pasta, or add it to salads. It’s also great as a side dish for meat or fish.
Cherry tomato and mozzarella skewers are a tasty and simple appetizer. You can make them quickly with just a few ingredients.
Start by marinating small mozzarella balls in olive oil and Italian seasoning. This adds flavor to the cheese.
Thread a cherry tomato onto a toothpick or small skewer. Follow it with a basil leaf and a marinated mozzarella ball. Add another basil leaf and cherry tomato to finish.
Arrange the skewers on a platter. Just before serving, sprinkle them with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic reduction.
These colorful skewers look great and taste even better. They’re perfect for parties or as a light snack.
Tomato basil soup is a comforting dish you can make with cherry tomatoes. It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a cozy meal.
To make this soup, roast cherry tomatoes with garlic and olive oil. This brings out their natural sweetness. Add some fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.
Blend the roasted tomatoes until smooth. You can add cream or milk for extra richness, but it’s optional. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your homemade tomato basil soup hot. It pairs well with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo. You can also top it with croutons or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tomato and burrata salad is a simple yet delicious dish that highlights summer flavors. You’ll need fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and a few basic ingredients.
Start by arranging burrata on a plate. Surround it with halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle good quality olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar over the top.
For extra flavor, add some fresh herbs like basil or oregano. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Serve this colorful salad with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
This easy recipe lets the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes shine. The creamy burrata provides a perfect contrast to the tangy tomatoes.
Tomato salad with red onion is a quick and refreshing dish perfect for summer. You can make it in just 5 minutes with a few simple ingredients.
Start by slicing cherry tomatoes in half and thinly slicing some red onion. Mix them together in a bowl.
For the dressing, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. Add minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and onions. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Let the salad marinate for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light snack. You can also add feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Start by slicing cucumbers and halving cherry tomatoes. Add thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor and crunch.
Mix the veggies in a bowl. Pour on a simple dressing of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. Italian seasoning works well, or try fresh basil for a classic taste.
This salad goes with almost any main dish. It’s great for picnics, barbecues, or everyday dinners. The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes make a refreshing combo.
Cherry tomatoes make a delicious pizza topping. You can roast them before adding to your pizza for extra flavor.
Spread pizza dough with sauce and mozzarella cheese. Add halved cherry tomatoes, garlic slices, and fresh basil leaves on top.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a hot oven until the crust is golden and tomatoes are soft.
For a twist, try roasting the tomatoes with herbs and honey first. This creates a sweet and savory topping. You can also blend roasted cherry tomatoes into a rich pizza sauce.
Tomato and kale salad is a tasty way to enjoy these nutritious ingredients together. You can make a simple version by combining chopped kale and halved cherry tomatoes.
Add a zesty lemon dressing to brighten the flavors. Toss in some sliced almonds for crunch and grated Parmesan cheese for richness.
For extra flavor, try adding sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese. This gives the salad a Mediterranean twist.
You can also turn this into a heartier dish by adding cooked pasta. The pasta soaks up the dressing and makes it more filling.
This versatile salad works well as a side dish or light lunch. It’s an easy way to get more leafy greens and veggies into your diet.
Cherry tomato tacos are a fresh twist on a classic dish. You can make them easily with a few simple ingredients.
Start by cooking chicken in your Instant Pot with taco seasoning. While it cooks, prepare a quick cherry tomato salsa. Mix chopped cherry tomatoes with diced onion, jalapeño, and garlic.
Once the chicken is done, shred it and place it in taco shells. Top with your homemade cherry tomato salsa. Add shredded cheese for extra flavor.
These tacos are perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The burst of sweetness from the cherry tomatoes pairs well with the savory chicken.
Tomato and mushroom quiche is a tasty dish that combines eggs, cheese, and veggies in a flaky crust. To make it, you’ll need a pie crust, eggs, milk, cheese, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms.
Start by cooking sliced mushrooms in a pan until soft. Whisk eggs and milk in a bowl, then add grated cheese. Place the cooked mushrooms and halved cherry tomatoes in the pie crust.
Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables. Bake the quiche at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes until it’s set and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
This quiche is great for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. You can serve it warm or at room temperature.
Cherry Tomato and Feta Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish. You’ll love how easy it is to make. Just toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a baking dish.
Place a block of feta cheese in the center. Bake it all together in a hot oven until the tomatoes burst and the feta gets soft and creamy.
The result is a tangy, salty sauce that’s perfect for pasta. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping. It’s a great way to use up lots of cherry tomatoes from your garden.
This dish is quick to prepare and mostly hands-off. The oven does most of the work for you. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without much effort.
Stuffed mushrooms are a tasty way to use cherry tomatoes. You can make them as a side dish or appetizer. Start by removing the stems from portobello mushrooms.
Mix chopped cherry tomatoes with spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. Spoon this mixture into the mushroom caps. Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the oven until they’re tender.
The tomatoes and spinach release juices as they cook. This keeps the mushrooms moist and flavorful. You can add olives or mozzarella for extra taste. Serve these stuffed mushrooms hot as a vegetarian main course or slice them for party snacks.
Tomato panzanella is a tasty Italian bread salad. It’s perfect for using up stale bread and ripe tomatoes.
To make it, you’ll need crusty bread, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a tangy dressing. Cut the bread into chunks and lightly toast it. Chop the tomatoes and mix with the bread.
Add cucumber, red onion, and basil for extra flavor and crunch. Pour on a simple dressing of olive oil and vinegar. Let it sit for a bit so the bread soaks up the juices.
This easy salad is great for summer meals. You ca
n make it with cherry tomatoes or larger varieties. It’s a refreshing side dish that comes together quickly.
Tomato and zucchini gratin is a tasty way to use up summer veggies. You’ll layer sliced tomatoes and zucchini in a baking dish. Sprinkle with herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
For extra crunch, add toasted breadcrumbs on top. Bake until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown. This dish works as a side or light main course.
Try mixing in some sliced potatoes for variety. You can also add sautéed onions between the layers for more flavor. Serve hot from the oven for the best taste and texture.
Cherry tomato and spinach pesto is a tasty twist on traditional pesto. It combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the earthy flavor of spinach.
To make this pesto, blend fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Add olive oil gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
This versatile sauce pairs well with pasta, chicken, or fish. You can also use it as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for vegetables.
For a quick meal, toss the pesto with cooked pasta and add some extra cherry tomatoes on top. The bright colors and fresh flavors will make your dish pop.
Cherry tomato relish is a tasty condiment that adds flavor to many dishes. You can make it at home with just a few ingredients.
To start, gather cherry tomatoes, green chilies, and pantry staples. Chop the tomatoes in half and dice the chilies.
Cook the mixture for about 30 minutes. This creates a chunky texture perfect for spreading.
You can use this relish on grilled meats like tri-tip. It also pairs well with cheese plates or sandwiches.
For extra kick, add spices like mustard powder or a pinch of chili. Bay leaves can give a nice depth of flavor too.
Make a big batch and store it in the fridge. You can even give jars as gifts to friends and family.
Health Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes pack a nutritional punch and offer several health benefits. They’re a tasty addition to meals while supporting your wellbeing.
Nutritional Content
Cherry tomatoes are low in calories but rich in nutrients. A cup of cherry tomatoes contains about 27 calories. They’re an excellent source of vitamin C, providing about 30% of your daily needs.
Cherry tomatoes also offer:
Vitamin A
Potassium
Vitamin K
Folate
These little fruits are high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full. They also contain small amounts of protein and healthy fats.
Antioxidant Properties
Cherry tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, gives them their red color. It may help reduce the risk of heart disease and some cancers.
Other antioxidants in cherry tomatoes include:
Beta-carotene
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
These compounds work together to boost your immune system and fight inflammation in your body. Eating cherry tomatoes regularly can help you maintain good health and ward off chronic diseases.
Benefits for Skin and Hair
The nutrients in cherry tomatoes can improve your skin and hair health. Vitamin C helps produce collagen, keeping your skin firm and youthful. It also aids in wound healing and protects against sun damage.
The vitamin A in cherry tomatoes supports healthy skin cell turnover. This can give you a brighter complexion and help prevent acne.
For your hair, the vitamins and minerals in cherry tomatoes promote growth and strength. They can help prevent hair loss and add shine to your locks. Eating cherry tomatoes as part of a balanced diet can contribute to healthier skin and hair from the inside out.
Cooking Techniques for Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are easy to cook in many ways. They add bright flavor and color to dishes. Here are some top methods to prepare these tiny treats.
Roasting
Roasting cherry tomatoes brings out their sweet taste. Heat your oven to 400°F. Spread tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 15-20 minutes until they burst.
Roasted tomatoes work well in pasta dishes. You can also add them to salads or use them as a side dish. For extra flavor, toss in garlic cloves or fresh herbs before roasting.
Try making roasted tomato soup. Blend the roasted tomatoes with broth and cream. It’s perfect for dipping grilled cheese sandwiches.
Grilling
Grilling gives cherry tomatoes a smoky flavor. Thread them onto skewers or use a grill basket. Brush with oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. The skins will char and split. This method works great for kebabs or as a BBQ side dish.
You can also grill tomatoes in foil packets. Add herbs and garlic for extra taste. Serve grilled tomatoes with fish or chicken for a quick meal.
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick way to cook cherry tomatoes. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add tomatoes and cook for 3-5 minutes. Shake the pan often to prevent sticking.
The tomatoes will soften and release their juices. This creates a light sauce for pasta or fish. Add garlic, herbs, or red pepper flakes for more flavor.
Try making a quick bruschetta topping. Sauté tomatoes with garlic and basil. Spoon over toasted bread for an easy snack or appetizer.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
