Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a vibrant, juicy, and highly versatile ingredient used in cuisines across the globe. Thanks to their blend of freshness, sweetness, and mild acidity, they add depth of flavor to salads, soups, casseroles, and sauces. Tomatoes handle heat well, retaining their juiciness and aroma during cooking. They can be eaten raw, roasted, stewed, or fried, and combined with a variety of ingredients – from vegetables to meats and cheeses. In the tomato section, you’ll find more ideas for inspiration.
Tomato Salad Recipes
Salads with Fresh Tomatoes: Seasonal Freshness in Every Bite
Fresh tomatoes form the base of many salads, known for their lightness, vibrant color, and bold flavor. Their juicy flesh with a sweet-and-tart taste pairs well with most vegetables, herbs, cheeses, and protein-rich ingredients. A simple salad of chopped tomatoes, red onion, and aromatic oil often needs no additions – during peak tomato season, this alone makes a complete dish. Tomato and soft cheese pairings are especially popular: the classic caprese with mozzarella or a version with feta cheese and olive oil. Such salads are enriched with herbs like basil, parsley, or arugula, and are often served as a standalone dish or side. Fresh tomatoes are also added to grain salads, where they brighten the neutral flavors of couscous, bulgur, or quinoa. They work well in layered salads with beans, peppers, corn, and spicy sauces. In such recipes, texture balance is key – and tomatoes provide the needed juiciness. Adding pieces of pickled cucumber gives the salad a tangy note that lifts the dish. Thanks to their versatility, tomatoes remain one of the most beloved salad ingredients for both everyday and festive menus.
Hot Dishes with Tomatoes: Roasting, Stewing, and Frying
Tomatoes aren’t just for fresh salads – they’re also indispensable in hot dishes. They withstand heat well, preserving some of their juices, structure, and aroma. Roasting is one of the simplest and most effective ways to bring out their rich flavor. Whole or chopped tomatoes are roasted with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, resulting in a fragrant base for pasta, sides, or main dishes. A popular option is stuffed tomatoes filled with grains, cheese, meat, or vegetables. These dishes look impressive and are easy to portion and bake thanks to the tomato's natural shape. Tomatoes are also used in stews and ragouts, where they release their juices and form a flavorful cooking base. They pair particularly well with legumes – such as stewed white beans, which gain juiciness and acidity from the tomatoes. Fried tomatoes are another quick yet delicious option. They can be served on their own or as a side for meat, eggs, vegetables, or grains. Combined with garlic and herbs, they make a wonderfully fragrant base for Mediterranean-style dishes. All of this makes tomatoes one of the most versatile ingredients in hot cooking.
Tomato Sauces: Flavor Base and Culinary Classic
Fresh tomatoes are a key ingredient in many sauces – from simple to complex. Their natural acidity, sweetness, and juiciness make them perfect for rich, flavorful reductions. In many world cuisines, tomato-based sauces form the foundation for pasta, meats, vegetables, grains, and even fish. The most well-known is the classic Italian sauce made from stewed tomatoes with garlic, basil, olive oil, and salt. It can be made from peeled tomatoes – grated or finely chopped. A basic tomato sauce becomes the base for many variations: with chili, balsamic vinegar, mushrooms, spices, or cream. It’s often used in casseroles, lasagna, stuffed vegetables, and as a topping for grains or pasta. Salsa is also made from fresh tomatoes – a thick sauce with peppers, onions, cilantro, and lime juice, served with appetizers, meat, or fish. Tomatoes pair well with dairy-based ingredients like yogurt or cream cheese. Blended with chopped green olives and basil, they create a Mediterranean-style tartine paste or spread. In home kitchens, quick sauces for potatoes, rice, or buckwheat are popular – just sauté onions, add grated tomatoes, a bit of sugar and salt, and in a few minutes, you’ve got a versatile side dish. Tomatoes offer endless possibilities for creative sauces, both simple and refined.
Appetizers, Canapés, and Antipasti with Tomatoes: A Juicy Accent for Every Occasion
Fresh tomatoes are excellent for cold appetizers, canapés, and antipasti – whether for everyday meals or festive occasions. Their appealing appearance and bold flavor bring visual flair and taste depth to even the simplest dishes. One of the best-known options is the classic caprese of sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with olive oil. This appetizer takes minutes to prepare but looks and tastes restaurant-worthy. Tomatoes pair easily with toast, crackers, crispbreads, or crostini. They can be sliced or turned into a paste with garlic, oil, spices, and herbs. Seafood is a great complement to such starters. Combined with boiled shrimp, fresh tomatoes make an elegant, light dish served in tartlets or on skewers. For vegetarian or fasting tables, tomatoes are especially appropriate – they’re used in eggplant rolls, vegetable platters, profiterole fillings, or as canape toppings. Antipasti with tomatoes, cheeses, olives, and roasted vegetables are a great "one-bite" serving option. They’re easy to serve, visually appealing, and require little preparation. Thus, fresh tomatoes remain a favorite for those who value flavor, simplicity, and aesthetics in a single bite.