Cherry tomatoes are small but mighty fruits that can transform your meals with their sweet, concentrated flavor.
Whether you’re looking to brighten up a salad, create a quick pasta dish, or prepare an impressive appetizer, these versatile little gems have you covered.
With their year-round availability, cherry tomatoes are perfect for adding color and nutrition to countless recipes, from simple to sophisticated.
These tiny tomatoes come in various colors and shapes, offering different flavor profiles to experiment with in your cooking.
You can roast them to intensify their sweetness, toss them fresh into salads for a juicy burst, or cook them down into rich sauces.
Cherry tomatoes pair beautifully with herbs like basil, proteins like chicken, and other summer vegetables, making them a staple ingredient for creative and delicious meals any time of year.
1. Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes is a refreshing summer dish that puts a twist on the classic Italian recipe. Instead of large tomato slices, you’ll use sweet, bite-sized cherry tomatoes that burst with flavor.
To make this simple salad, combine halved cherry tomatoes with fresh mozzarella balls and torn basil leaves. The small size of the ingredients makes it easy to get the perfect bite every time.
Dress your salad with quality olive oil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra tanginess. Some versions include a splash of lime juice for a fresh, zesty flavor profile.
This versatile dish works as a side for grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.
2. Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Cherry tomato and basil pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for weeknight meals. The fresh cherry tomatoes burst with sweet juice when cooked, creating a light sauce that coats the pasta.
You can prepare this dish in under 30 minutes with just a few ingredients.
Start by sautéing cherry tomatoes with garlic and olive oil until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Add cooked pasta to the pan along with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This combination creates a bright, summery flavor that feels fancy while being easy to make.
For extra richness, some recipes include a splash of cream or a bit of basil oil drizzled on top.
3. Roasted Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
Roasted cherry tomatoes make an incredible bruschetta topping that’s sweet and jammy. When you roast tomatoes, their flavors intensify and become more concentrated.
To make this dish, toss cherry tomatoes with garlic, thyme, salt, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Roast them in a 350°F oven until they burst and get slightly caramelized.
Serve these flavorful tomatoes over crostini that’s been spread with ricotta cheese. Top with fresh basil and a drizzle of fruity olive oil.
This dish works best when tomatoes are at their peak in summer, but roasting can enhance the flavor of less perfect tomatoes too.
4. Grilled Cheese with Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness to classic grilled cheese sandwiches. Start with good bread, butter the outside for a crispy finish, and use shredded mozzarella for the best melt.
Add 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes between the cheese layers. The heat will slightly roast them, releasing their sweet flavor into the sandwich.
For extra flavor, include a few fresh basil leaves and a light spread of mayonnaise on the inside of the bread. This creates a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the acidity of the tomatoes.
You can also add a touch of pesto for an herbaceous note that complements both the cheese and tomatoes.
5. Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Skewers
Cherry tomato and mozzarella skewers make the perfect appetizer for any occasion. These colorful caprese bites are simple to make but always impress guests.
To make these skewers, you’ll need cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), and fresh basil leaves. Thread the ingredients onto small skewers for easy serving.
For extra flavor, drizzle your skewers with balsamic glaze before serving. You can also add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the taste.
These skewers work great for holidays, parties, or summer gatherings. They’re quick to prepare and showcase the classic Italian combination of tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
6. Cherry Tomato Tart with Basil Pesto
Cherry tomato tart with basil pesto combines flaky puff pastry with fresh, sweet cherry tomatoes for a beautiful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The tart starts with a golden-baked pastry base topped with rich basil pesto.
You can enhance the flavor by marinating your cherry tomatoes in olive oil, thyme, oregano, and chili flakes before adding them to the tart. Many recipes include a layer of cheese—mozzarella or ricotta work wonderfully.
This elegant savory tart makes a great impression at any gathering. You can prepare it ahead of time and serve it warm or at room temperature with a simple side salad.
7. Chicken and Cherry Tomato Stir-Fry
This quick meal combines juicy chicken with sweet cherry tomatoes for a delicious stir-fry ready in just 10 minutes. You can use chicken thighs or breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
Season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking in oil with garlic. When the chicken is nearly done, add cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to burst slightly.
For extra flavor, add a bit of chicken bouillon and fresh herbs like parsley. This versatile dish works perfectly over rice, couscous, or noodles. It’s an ideal way to use up garden tomatoes during summer months.
8. Cherry Tomato Gazpacho
Cherry tomatoes make a delicious base for gazpacho, a refreshing cold soup perfect for warm days. Their natural sweetness adds a unique twist to this classic dish.
To make cherry tomato gazpacho, blend fresh cherry tomatoes with cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic. Add olive oil, vinegar (balsamic or sherry works well), and a pinch of salt.
Some recipes include almonds for texture or mix in regular tomatoes for a more complex flavor. You can also add a splash of tomato juice for a smoother consistency.
Chill your gazpacho for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors combine. Garnish with herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
9. Cherry Tomato and Goat Cheese Frittata
Cherry tomato and goat cheese frittata makes a quick, protein-packed meal that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This easy dish bakes directly in the oven with no stovetop cooking required.
The sweet burst of halved cherry tomatoes pairs perfectly with tangy goat cheese in this egg dish. You can enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like basil or chives.
For a complete summer frittata, consider adding sweet corn, zucchini, or spinach to the mix. The dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need a nutritious meal.
10. Spaghetti with Cherry Tomato Sauce
Spaghetti with cherry tomato sauce is a quick meal that brings fresh summer flavor to your dinner table. This dish takes advantage of sweet cherry tomatoes that burst when cooked, creating a naturally thick sauce.
To make this dish, start by heating olive oil and minced garlic in a pan. Add your cherry tomatoes whole and cook until they begin to burst open.
The natural pectin in the tomatoes helps thicken the sauce without needing added ingredients. You can enhance the flavor with fresh basil and a sprinkle of ricotta or parmesan on top.
This simple pasta dish works great for weeknight dinners when you need something delicious in little time.
11. Cherry Tomato and Avocado Salad
Cherry Tomato and Avocado Salad is a colorful, healthy dish that’s easy to put together. This simple salad combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the creamy texture of avocados.
To make this salad, you’ll need diced avocados, cherry or grape tomatoes, peeled cucumbers, and diced red onions. These fresh ingredients create a vibrant mix of colors and flavors.
The salad is usually dressed with a flavorful, unique dressing that enhances the natural taste of the vegetables. You can prepare this refreshing dish quickly for a light lunch or as a side for dinner.
12. Cherry Tomato and Feta Cheese Pizza
Cherry tomato and feta cheese pizza brings together sweet and tangy flavors on a crispy crust. This combination has become popular, especially after similar ingredients went viral in a baked pasta dish.
To make this pizza, spread a spinach mixture over par-baked pizza dough. Sprinkle feta and mozzarella cheese on top, then add halved cherry tomatoes.
For extra flavor, add oregano before baking the pizza for 12-15 minutes. You can also include roasted red peppers and olives for a Mediterranean twist.
This pizza works best with summer cherry tomatoes when they’re at their sweetest. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil for an authentic touch.
13. Cherry Tomato and Herb Quinoa
Cherry tomato and herb quinoa combines fresh flavors with healthy ingredients for a perfect meal. This versatile dish works as a main course or side dish.
Sweet cherry tomatoes burst with flavor when mixed with fluffy quinoa. Fresh herbs like basil and chives add brightness to every bite.
You can customize this dish with feta cheese for creaminess or keep it vegan. Some recipes use a simple olive oil dressing, while others incorporate vegetable stock for more flavor.
Try this for meal prep – it stays fresh in your lunch box all week. The combination of protein-rich quinoa and juicy tomatoes makes for a satisfying and nutritious option.
14. Cherry Tomato Salsa
Cherry tomato salsa brings a naturally sweet taste to your table. It’s quick to make and full of fresh flavors that work well with many dishes.
You can roast the cherry tomatoes for a deeper, smokier flavor. This small step adds richness that regular salsa often lacks.
Mix your tomatoes with fresh cilantro, onions, and lime juice for a classic combination. Add jalapeños if you want some heat.
Serve this vibrant salsa with tortilla chips, tacos, or on top of grilled chicken. It’s versatile enough to enhance almost any meal you prepare.
15. Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Raita
Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Raita is a refreshing twist on the traditional Indian yogurt dish. It combines cool cucumbers with sweet cherry tomatoes for a perfect balance of flavors.
To make this dish, stir yogurt until smooth, then add chopped cucumbers and halved cherry tomatoes. Mix in some pesto sauce for an unexpected flavor boost that works surprisingly well.
This raita serves as an excellent side dish for spicy curries or as a cooling dip. You can garnish it with extra cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
It’s a versatile dish that’s both light and satisfying, perfect for summer meals when you have garden-fresh produce.
16. Lemon and Cherry Tomato Risotto
Lemon and cherry tomato risotto brings bright flavors to your dinner table. This dish combines the tangy zest of lemon with sweet cherry tomatoes for a perfect balance.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil. Add arborio rice and toast it slightly before slowly adding warm chicken broth.
As the risotto cooks, roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil until they burst. The tomatoes add color and sweet-tart flavor to the creamy rice.
Finish your risotto with butter, fresh lemon juice, and zest. Top with the roasted tomatoes and some basil for a fresh summer meal that’s both comforting and light.
17. Cherry Tomato and Spinach Omelette
Cherry tomatoes and spinach make a perfect pair in this quick, nutritious omelette. You’ll need just a few ingredients: eggs, fresh spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and some cheese.
Start by whisking your eggs in a bowl.
Heat a pan with a little olive oil or butter. Add halved cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts slightly.
Pour the beaten eggs into the pan, letting them cook until almost set. Add some cheddar or feta cheese for extra flavor, then fold the omelette in half.
This colorful breakfast takes just minutes to prepare and offers a protein-rich start to your day.
18. Roasted Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Pizza
Roasted cherry tomatoes burst with sweet flavor when baked, making them perfect for homemade pizza. To make this delicious pizza, bake your crust at 450 degrees for about 15 minutes.
While the crust cooks, roast cherry tomatoes until they begin to burst. The caramelization brings out their natural sweetness.
Whip ricotta cheese with olive oil and pepper to create a creamy base.
Spread this mixture on your baked crust and top with the roasted tomatoes.
For extra flavor, consider adding caramelized onions and fresh herbs. Some versions include gouda or burrata cheese for added creaminess.
19. Cherry Tomato Bruschetta with Avocado
Cherry tomato bruschetta with avocado combines classic Italian flavors with creamy texture. This easy appetizer takes just 10 minutes to prepare and looks impressive on any table.
Start by toasting bread slices until golden and rubbing them with garlic.
Mix diced cherry tomatoes with finely chopped basil leaves, olive oil, and salt in a bowl.
Add creamy smashed avocado to the toasted bread before topping with the tomato mixture. The avocado adds richness that complements the juicy tomatoes perfectly.
This versatile dish works well for parties, light dinners, or weekend brunches. You can customize it by adding balsamic glaze or red pepper flakes.
20. Cherry Tomato Couscous
Cherry tomato couscous is a delightful dish that combines sweet, juicy tomatoes with tender couscous. This versatile recipe works well as both a side dish or light main course.
To prepare it, you can use either regular or pearl (Israeli) couscous.
The tomatoes can be prepared in different ways – roasted until blistered, sautéed until burst, or even added fresh.
Many recipes enhance the flavor with herbs like basil or parsley. Some versions include feta cheese, chickpeas, or cucumbers for extra texture and taste.
The dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for summer meals. The sweetness of cherry tomatoes creates a natural sauce that coats the couscous beautifully.
21. Cherry Tomato, Basil, and Burrata Salad
This simple yet elegant salad brings together sweet cherry tomatoes and creamy burrata cheese for a perfect summer dish. You can prepare it in minutes for a quick lunch or impressive appetizer.
To make this salad, slice a pint of cherry tomatoes in half and arrange them on a plate. Place a ball of burrata cheese in the center and tear fresh basil leaves over the top.
Drizzle everything with good quality olive oil and season with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, you can marinate the tomatoes beforehand in a bit of oil, garlic, and herbs.
This refreshing combination lets the natural sweetness of the tomatoes shine alongside the rich, milky burrata.
Nutritional Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes may be small, but they pack a powerful nutritional punch. These tiny fruits are low in calories, with only about 64 calories per cup, making them a perfect snack or recipe addition for weight management.
They’re an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps support your immune system and promotes healthy skin. A single cup provides a significant portion of your daily vitamin C needs.
Cherry tomatoes also contain vitamin A, essential for eye health and immune function. Their bright red color comes from lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced cancer risk.
Key Nutrients in Cherry Tomatoes:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Lycopene
- Beta carotene
- Lutein
- Dietary fiber
The fiber content in cherry tomatoes supports digestive health. With about 2 grams of fiber per cup, they contribute to healthy digestion and may help you feel fuller longer.
Cherry tomatoes contain minimal fat and no cholesterol. They’re naturally low in sodium, with just about 232mg per cup, making them heart-friendly.
When you add cherry tomatoes to your meals, you’re not just adding flavor but also boosting your intake of carotenoid antioxidants like lutein and beta carotene, which help protect your cells from damage.
Growing and Storing Cherry Tomatoes
Growing your own cherry tomatoes ensures a fresh supply for all your favorite recipes. Proper storage techniques help maintain their sweet flavor and extend their shelf life.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Cherry tomatoes thrive in full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant them in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 for best results.
Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about 1-2 inches of water weekly, adjusting for rainfall. Irregular watering can cause fruit splitting.
Provide support with stakes or cages when plants reach 12 inches tall. This prevents sprawling and keeps fruit off the ground.
Plant after the last frost when soil temperatures reach 60°F (16°C). Space plants 24-36 inches apart to ensure good air circulation and prevent disease.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer low in nitrogen but high in phosphorus and potassium to encourage fruit production rather than excessive leaf growth.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Never refrigerate cherry tomatoes before they’re fully ripe. Cold temperatures stop the ripening process and diminish flavor.
Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
For longer storage, place unwashed tomatoes stem-side down in a single layer in a paper-lined container. This prevents moisture buildup and extends freshness for 5-7 days.
Freeze whole cherry tomatoes by washing them, removing stems, and placing on a baking sheet until frozen. Then, transfer to freezer bags for storage up to 6 months.
Slow-roast cherry tomatoes and preserve them in olive oil for a flavorful addition to pastas and soups. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For an abundant harvest, try making tomato confit with garlic. It’s perfect for toast, soups, or pasta sauces.
