Cherry tomatoes are a versatile and delightful ingredient that can add a burst of flavor to many dishes. These small, juicy tomatoes are perfect for quick and easy recipes that you can enjoy all year round. Whether you’re looking to enhance a salad, create a savory sauce, or simply roast them for a tasty side dish, cherry tomatoes can easily fit into your menu.
What are some creative and easy ways to use cherry tomatoes in your cooking? This collection of 30 cherry tomato recipes will provide you with plenty of ideas to make the most out of these little gems. From appetizers to main courses, cherry tomatoes can be the star of any meal with their vibrant color and fresh taste.
1) Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad
Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad is a simple and tasty dish. It’s perfect for summer. You can make it quickly with fresh ingredients.
Start by washing and halving your cherry tomatoes. Place them in a bowl or on a serving platter. Add fresh mozzarella balls to the tomatoes.
Tear fresh basil leaves into small pieces. Sprinkle them over the tomatoes and mozzarella. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Mix everything together gently. This blend of flavors is sure to impress. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal.
2) Roasted Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Roasted Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta combines fresh ingredients into a simple yet delicious dish. First, preheat your oven to 425°F. Wash and dry your cherry tomatoes. Cut them in half and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil.
Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Roast them in the oven for about 15 minutes until they are soft and starting to char. Once roasted, set them aside.
Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the rest. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat and add thinly sliced garlic. Cook the garlic until it just starts to turn golden.
Add the roasted tomatoes to the skillet along with red pepper flakes. Stir in the reserved pasta water to create a sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix well. Finally, tear fresh basil leaves and add them to the pasta right before serving.
Serve the Roasted Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta hot. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Enjoy flavorful bites bursting with sweet and savory notes from the tomatoes and basil.
3) Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
Cherry Tomato Bruschetta is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer. You need ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, salt, and a good baguette.
Start by chopping the cherry tomatoes and basil. Mix them in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar if desired.
Slice the baguette diagonally and brush both sides with olive oil. Toast the slices in a skillet or oven until they are crispy.
Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted bread. Serve immediately for the best flavor. Cherry Tomato Bruschetta is perfect for summer gatherings and is sure to be a hit with your guests.
4) Cherry Tomato Feta Dip
Cherry Tomato Feta Dip is a delicious appetizer that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
To start, preheat your oven to 425°F. Place a block of feta in the center of an oven-proof baking dish.
Surround the feta with cherry tomatoes and garlic. Drizzle olive oil over everything.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Bake for about 30 minutes. The feta will become creamy, and the tomatoes will be roasted and sweet.
After baking, remove from the oven. Stir the tomatoes and feta together, mixing well.
Serve with toasted bread or crackers. This warm dip is perfect for sharing at any gathering.
5) Cherry Tomato Goat Cheese Tart
Cherry Tomato Goat Cheese Tarts are a delicious blend of flavors. You start by cutting cherry tomatoes in half and placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with a bit of sugar and salt, and roast at 400°F for about 15 minutes.
While the cherry tomatoes are roasting, you can prepare the pastry. Roll it out to about ¼ inch thick and place it in a 10-inch round tart pan. Press the pastry gently into the pan, making sure it covers the sides.
Once the tomatoes are roasted, lower the oven temperature to 350°F. Spread a thin layer of passata or your favorite tomato sauce over the bottom of the pastry. Then, evenly distribute the roasted tomatoes, crumbled goat cheese, and thinly sliced onions over the sauce.
Season the tart with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil around the tart’s edges to give it a nice golden crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.
After baking, let the tart cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm or at room temperature. The combination of sweet tomatoes and tangy goat cheese makes this a standout dish for any occasion.
6) Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Skewers
Cherry tomato and mozzarella skewers make a great appetizer. They are easy to prepare and always taste fresh and delicious. These skewers capture the flavors of a classic Caprese salad but make it portable.
Start by gathering cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil. Rinse the tomatoes and basil leaves, then pat them dry. If the basil leaves are large, you can tear them in half.
Take a toothpick or small skewer and thread a cherry tomato onto it. Next, add a mozzarella ball followed by a basil leaf. Repeat this process until the skewer is full.
For extra flavor, consider marinating the mozzarella. Mix olive oil with some Italian seasoning and minced garlic. Let the mozzarella marinate in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
Just before serving, drizzle a balsamic reduction over the skewers. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the fresh ingredients. You can make the reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.
Arrange the finished skewers on a serving platter. They are best served immediately. These skewers are perfect for parties, picnics, or any gathering.
7) Garlic Cherry Tomato Confit
Garlic Cherry Tomato Confit is a simple and flavorful recipe. It uses fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. The result is a delicious, soft, and sweetened dish.
To start, preheat your oven to 325°F. Arrange whole cherry tomatoes and peeled garlic cloves in a single layer in a baking dish. You can also add some fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
Pour extra virgin olive oil over the tomatoes and garlic until they are almost submerged. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. The dish goes into the oven to roast for about an hour.
As it cooks, the garlic and shallots become tender and sweet, and the tomatoes start to brown and burst. The confit can be used in a variety of ways. Spread it on toasted bread, mix it into pasta, or serve it alongside grilled meat or fish.
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The confit will keep for about a week, and the flavors will only get better.
8) Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Pizza
Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Pizza offers a delightful mix of flavors on a crisp crust. Start by preheating your oven to 450°F.
On a baking sheet, toss cherry tomato slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast the tomatoes for 10-12 minutes until they begin to burst and caramelize.
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to 10-12 inches. Spread a layer of mozzarella cheese and dot it with spoonfuls of creamy ricotta.
Evenly distribute the roasted cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese. Sprinkle with Parmesan for extra flavor.
Bake the pizza directly on a hot stone or a baking sheet for about 6-7 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Once baked, transfer the pizza to a cutting board. Slice and enjoy this simple yet delicious meal.
9) Cherry Tomato Gazpacho
Cherry Tomato Gazpacho is a refreshing and healthy cold soup perfect for hot days.
To make this dish, start by washing your cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. Cut them into chunks and toss them into a blender. Add chopped onion, garlic, and parsley for extra flavor.
Pour in some olive oil and vinegar. These liquids help blend the ingredients smoothly.
Once all ingredients are in the blender, blend until the mixture is smooth. If you prefer a silky texture, you can strain the soup using a sieve.
Chill the soup in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
Garnish with fresh parsley leaves or basil oil if you like. For a bit of crunch, you can add croutons on top.
10) Cherry Tomato and Avocado Salad
Cherry Tomato and Avocado Salad is a simple and healthy dish you can enjoy anytime. Start by cutting your avocados in half, removing the pit, and dicing them. Toss the avocado pieces with lemon juice right away. This stops them from browning and adds a fresh flavor.
Next, add halved cherry tomatoes and finely diced red onion into the bowl with the avocado. For seasoning, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and mix gently to coat everything.
If you want more flavor, you can add chopped parsley and sprinkle some feta cheese on top. The crumbled feta adds a creamy and tangy taste. You can also drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze for extra richness.
Serve the salad immediately or cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to two hours. This dish is colorful, tasty, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner. The fresh ingredients make it both delicious and visually appealing.
11) Cherry Tomato and Basil Quiche
To make a Cherry Tomato and Basil Quiche, start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Prepare your quiche crust and place it in a tart tin.
In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk. Add soy milk and soy cream for a rich texture.
Mix in some chopped basil, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper to flavor the filling.
Arrange the cherry tomatoes on top of the crust.
You can also add grated cheese or almond cheese if you prefer.
Pour the egg mixture over the cherry tomatoes and crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes to 1 hour or until the filling is set and golden brown.
Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your quiche warm or at room temperature.
Feel free to serve with extra fresh basil on top for garnish.
12) Cherry Tomato Salsa
Cherry tomato salsa is a fresh and vibrant dip that’s both easy to make and delicious.
To start, peel half an onion and chop it roughly. Then, add it to a food processor along with a couple of garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.
Remove the seeds and membranes from a jalapeño to reduce the heat. Roughly chop the jalapeño and add it to the processor. Pulse again until everything is well combined.
Next, prepare your cherry tomatoes. Arrange them on a baking sheet, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, and roast at 450°F for about 10-12 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness.
Once roasted, add the cherry tomatoes to the food processor. Pulse until you achieve your desired salsa consistency. If the mix is too watery, you can drain excess liquid.
Finally, add some fresh cilantro, the juice of one lime, and a pinch of salt. Give everything one last mix.
Serve your cherry tomato salsa with tortilla chips, or use it as a topping for tacos and grilled meats. The roasting of the tomatoes adds a unique depth of flavor that sets this salsa apart from others.
13) Cherry Tomato and Zucchini Casserole
For this casserole, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Begin with a layer of zucchini slices in a baking dish.
Mix cheddar and Parmesan cheese with garlic, oregano, and basil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Next, sprinkle a portion of this cheese and herb mixture over the zucchini.
Then, add a layer of cherry tomatoes on top. Continue layering zucchini and cherry tomatoes, each time adding more of the cheese mixture.
Finish with a final sprinkle of the cheese and herb mixture on top.
Bake the casserole until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling, about 25-30 minutes.
Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delicious dish as a side or a main course!
14) Cherry Tomato and Spinach Omelette
Making a cherry tomato and spinach omelette is simple and fast. You start by beating some eggs in a bowl. Add a little salt and pepper to taste.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add some olive oil. When the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs. Swirl the pan to spread the eggs evenly.
Once the eggs start to set, add cherry tomatoes and spinach. You should have the tomatoes sliced in halves and the spinach ready to go. Let the veggies cook until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
Use a spatula to fold the omelette in half. Let it cook for another minute to make sure everything is heated through and the eggs are fully set.
Your cherry tomato and spinach omelette is now ready to serve. It’s a healthy, tasty, and easy-to-make breakfast.
15) Cherry Tomato and Asparagus Salad
Cherry Tomato and Asparagus Salad brings fresh, bright flavors to your table. To start, boil asparagus in salted water for about 2 minutes. This keeps them crisp. After boiling, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Next, combine the asparagus with cherry tomatoes. Add thinly sliced red onions and peas for extra crunch.
Make a simple dressing from olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss the dressing with the veggies to coat evenly.
This salad is a great side dish for any meal, offering a mix of textures and flavors that your guests will love.
16) Cherry Tomato and Pesto Sandwich
To make a Cherry Tomato and Pesto Sandwich, you start by toasting some bread. Choose a sturdy type like ciabatta or sourdough. Toast until golden and crispy. This will be the base of your sandwich.
Next, prepare your cherry tomatoes. Slice them in half and drizzle with a bit of olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor. If you want, you can even roast them for about 10 minutes at 400°F.
Spread a generous layer of pesto on the toasted bread. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto. Make sure the pesto covers the entire surface of the bread for maximum flavor.
Once the pesto is on, add the cherry tomatoes. Make sure the tomatoes are evenly distributed. This will ensure you get a burst of flavor in every bite.
Finally, if you like, add some fresh basil leaves and a slice of mozzarella or another favorite cheese. This can give the sandwich a creamy texture and extra flavor.
Close the sandwich and press it lightly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
17) Cherry Tomato Balsamic Glaze
Cherry Tomato Balsamic Glaze is a delicious way to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of cherry tomatoes. This dish is perfect for a side or as a topping for various foods.
To make this glaze, wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly and slice them in half. Arrange them on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Drizzle the cherry tomatoes with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss them gently to ensure they are all well-coated. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the tomatoes for about 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will become wrinkled, and the balsamic vinegar will reduce to a thick, rich glaze.
Once the tomatoes are finished roasting, you can serve them warm. This dish pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, or even as a topping for bruschetta. The flavors of the roasted cherry tomatoes and the balsamic glaze complement each other beautifully, adding a burst of flavor to any meal.
18) Cherry Tomato and Chickpea Salad
Cherry Tomato and Chickpea Salad is a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavors.
Begin by gathering your ingredients: cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, red onion, cucumber, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Start by rinsing and draining the chickpeas. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber. Dice the red onion and chop the parsley.
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
For the dressing, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture.
Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
Serve chilled for a refreshing and nutritious salad.
19) Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Flatbread
Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Flatbread is a quick and delicious dish you can enjoy any time. Start by preheating your oven to around 400°F (200°C).
Take a piece of naan or flatbread and place it on a baking sheet. Tear mozzarella into chunks or use mozzarella slices and spread them evenly over the flatbread. Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them on top of the cheese.
Bake for about 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust turns golden. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Once out of the oven, add fresh basil and a pinch of salt. For added flavor, sprinkle some dried oregano and red pepper flakes. You can also drizzle some olive oil over the top if you like.
Serve immediately while the flatbread is warm and the cheese is gooey. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful flatbread as a snack or a quick lunch.
20) Cherry Tomato and Basil Stuffed Chicken
Cherry Tomato and Basil Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and easy dish to prepare. It combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Chop cherry tomatoes and basil. Mix them with a bit of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Stuff the mixture into the chicken breasts. Use toothpicks to secure, if needed. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve hot, and enjoy the burst of flavors from the cherry tomatoes and basil.
21) Savory Cherry Tomato Clafoutis
Savory Cherry Tomato Clafoutis is a flavorful French dish that combines fresh tomatoes with a light, custardy base.
You start by preheating your oven to about 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and a bit of salt. Add some flour to the mixture and continue whisking until smooth.
Arrange cherry tomatoes in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle some grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese over the tomatoes. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the tomatoes.
Bake in the oven until the clafoutis is golden brown and puffed, around 30 minutes. Serve warm as a main course or a hearty side dish.
22) Cherry Tomato and Burrata Salad
Cherry Tomato and Burrata Salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple yet impressive. The freshness of the tomatoes complements the creamy burrata cheese perfectly.
Start by roasting the cherry tomatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes until they are soft but not mushy.
While the tomatoes are roasting, prepare the burrata. Tear the burrata balls into halves or chunks and place them on a platter. Once the tomatoes are done, spoon them around the cheese.
Drizzle everything with a bit more olive oil. Sprinkle sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and some fresh basil over the top.
This salad is best served with crusty bread to soak up all the juices and flavors. If you like, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness.
This dish is perfect for a summer meal or as an elegant appetizer. Its simple ingredients let each flavor shine, making it a favorite among many.
23) Cherry Tomato and Sausage Pasta
Cherry Tomato and Sausage Pasta is a quick and tasty weeknight dinner that’s sure to please everyone. Start by cooking your favorite pasta until al dente.
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned.
Next, add cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
Add chopped basil, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and green onions for extra flavor.
Serve it hot and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet cherry tomatoes and savory sausage.
24) Cherry Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
Cherry Tomato and Basil Bruschetta is a simple and fresh appetizer.
To make it, start by mixing diced cherry tomatoes and chopped basil in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss gently to coat.
Slice a baguette at an angle, about ⅔-inch thick. Brush both sides with olive oil. Toast the slices in a hot skillet or on a baking sheet in the oven until golden.
Top each slice of toast with the tomato and basil mixture. If you like, add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Serve immediately while the toast is still warm. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a quick snack.
25) Cherry Tomato and Avocado Toast
For a quick and healthy snack, try cherry tomato and avocado toast. Start by toasting slices of your favorite bread until they are golden brown.
While the bread is toasting, slice your avocados in half and remove the pits. Scoop out the flesh and mash it in a bowl. Add lemon or lime juice and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
Spread the mashed avocado evenly over each piece of toast. Slice cherry tomatoes in half and toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Arrange the seasoned cherry tomatoes on top of the avocado spread. For an extra kick, you can sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes. Enjoy your fresh, flavorful toast!
26) Cherry Tomato and Mushroom Risotto
Cherry Tomato and Mushroom Risotto is a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for any meal. To start, gather cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, arborio rice, garlic, shallots, olive oil, vegetable stock, and seasonings.
Begin by washing and drying the cherry tomatoes. Slice the mushrooms and chop the garlic and shallots. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add the shallots and garlic. Cook until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook until they start to brown. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and stir. Let the tomatoes cook until their skins begin to blister and release their juices.
Next, add the arborio rice to the pan. Stir constantly for a minute to toast the rice. Pour in a portion of warm vegetable stock. Stir until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Continue this process, adding stock gradually, for about 18-20 minutes.
Season the risotto with salt, pepper, and any additional spices like paprika or chili flakes. Stir in some tomato paste for added richness.
When the rice is creamy and cooked through, the risotto is ready to serve. Enjoy the delicious mix of cherry tomatoes and mushrooms in every bite!
27) Cherry Tomato with Feta and Mint
For a refreshing dish, try combining cherry tomatoes with feta and mint. Start by heating your oven to 400°F.
In a baking dish, add cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and a bit of olive oil. Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the top. Mix well to coat the tomatoes.
In the center of the dish, place a block of feta cheese. Drizzle more olive oil over the feta.
Bake for about 30 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and bursting. The feta should be slightly golden on top. While it’s baking, chop some fresh mint leaves.
Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven. Use a spoon to mix the tomatoes and feta together. The softened feta will blend with the juices from the tomatoes.
Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves on top before serving. The mint adds a fresh and aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the feta and the sweetness of the tomatoes. Enjoy this dish warm with some crusty bread or over cooked pasta.
28) Cherry Tomato and Kale Salad
Cherry Tomato and Kale Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish. Start by washing and drying fresh kale. Tear it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large bowl.
Massage the kale with a small amount of olive oil for 2-3 minutes until it’s tender. This step makes the kale less bitter and more enjoyable to eat.
Add cherry tomatoes, halved, to the bowl. They bring a burst of sweetness and color to the salad.
For extra flavor, add sliced almonds, red onion, or grated Parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
For a twist, you can roast the cherry tomatoes with a bit of olive oil and salt before adding them to the salad. This adds a richer flavor.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Cherry Tomato and Kale Salad is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
29) Cherry Tomato and Olive Tapenade
Cherry tomato and olive tapenade is a colorful and flavorful dish. It’s quick to make and perfect as a dip or spread.
Start by slicing your cherry tomatoes and pitted olives in half. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Add minced garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, and a splash of vinegar.
Mix in some herbs like oregano or basil. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. Toss everything together gently.
Bake the mixture at 450°F for about 25 minutes until the tomatoes soften. Let it cool before serving with crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy the burst of Mediterranean flavors!
30) Cherry Tomato and Orzo Salad
Cherry Tomato and Orzo Salad is a light and refreshing dish. It combines tender orzo pasta with fresh cherry tomatoes for a colorful and flavorful meal. Perfect for picnics or light lunches.
Start by boiling the orzo in a large pot of salted water. Cook it until al dente, then drain and set aside.
While the orzo is cooking, prepare the cherry tomatoes. Slice them in half for a burst of sweet and juicy flavor in each bite.
Add chopped herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness. Don’t forget vegetables such as cucumbers or bell peppers, diced into small pieces.
Mix everything in a large bowl. Drizzle with lemon dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Toss the salad well so all ingredients are evenly coated. Serve it chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the combination of tender pasta and crisp vegetables in this easy and tasty salad!
Health Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are small but packed with nutrients. They offer numerous health benefits, from essential vitamins to powerful antioxidants.
Nutritional Value
Cherry tomatoes are low in calories but high in important nutrients. They contain just 25 calories per serving, making them a healthy snack option. Each serving provides about 1 gram of protein and 6 grams of carbohydrates, including 2 grams of fiber and 4 grams of sugar. This fiber helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
You also get a variety of vitamins and minerals. Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which boosts your immune system. They also contain vitamin A, important for vision and skin health, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Adding these tiny tomatoes to your diet can contribute to your overall nutrient intake.
Antioxidant Properties
Cherry tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants, which protect your body from harmful free radicals. Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, has been linked to reduced risks of heart disease and certain types of cancer. This compound gives tomatoes their red color and offers protective benefits.
Another antioxidant in cherry tomatoes is vitamin C, which not only supports immune health but also fights oxidative stress. Eating foods rich in antioxidants like cherry tomatoes can help reduce inflammation in your body and may even slow down the aging process. Incorporating these vibrant tomatoes into your meals can be a simple way to boost your antioxidant intake.
Cooking Tips for Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes can be incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Here are ways to select the best ones and keep them fresh.
Selecting the Best Tomatoes
When picking fresh cherry tomatoes, look for ones that are firm and brightly colored. They should have no bruises or dark spots. Gently squeeze the tomatoes to check their firmness. A good cherry tomato will be firm but not too hard.
Check for a sweet smell at the stem. This indicates ripeness and a good flavor. Also, consider buying tomatoes on the vine, as they tend to stay fresher longer.
Storage Recommendations
Store unripened cherry tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Once they are ripe, you can move them to the refrigerator.
Refrigeration slows down the ripening process and keeps tomatoes fresh for up to a week. If you want to maximize flavor, let refrigerated tomatoes come to room temperature before using them.
For longer storage, consider freezing cherry tomatoes. Wash and dry them thoroughly, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This method helps retain flavor and texture.
Pairing Cherry Tomatoes with Other Ingredients
Cherry tomatoes are versatile and can be paired with a variety of ingredients to create flavorful and balanced dishes. They complement herbs and spices, enhance cheeses and proteins, and blend well with grains and pastas.
Herbs and Spices
Cherry tomatoes shine when combined with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley. Basil, in particular, pairs perfectly, bringing out the tomatoes’ natural sweetness. Oregano adds a Mediterranean flair that’s ideal for pasta dishes or pizza.
Spices like garlic and crushed red pepper flakes add depth and heat, respectively. Garlic, whether minced or roasted, highlights the rich umami flavors of the tomatoes. Crushed red pepper flakes give a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the tomatoes’ sweetness.
Cheeses and Proteins
Cherry tomatoes are a natural match for cheeses such as mozzarella, goat cheese, and feta. Mozzarella offers a mild creaminess that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Goat cheese adds a tangy depth, while feta’s saltiness enhances the tomatoes’ sweetness.
For proteins, consider chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Grilled or baked chicken pairs well in salads and pasta dishes. Shrimp provides a light, seafood contrast that’s superb in pasta or rice dishes. Tofu, when marinated, offers a plant-based protein option that absorbs and complements the tomato flavors.
Grains and Pastas
Grains like quinoa, farro, and couscous are perfect for salads, providing a hearty base that allows the cherry tomatoes to stand out. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor, while farro’s chewiness and couscous’s light texture both offer unique contrasts to the tomatoes’ juiciness.
Pastas such as penne, spaghetti, and gnocchi are excellent carriers for cherry tomato sauces. Penne and spaghetti provide structures that hold the tomatoes and their juices well. Gnocchi, with its soft and pillowy texture, pairs beautifully with slow-roasted cherry tomatoes for a comforting dish.
By using these pairings, you can create a wide variety of delicious and satisfying dishes that highlight the natural flavors of cherry tomatoes.
