Green tomatoes often get overlooked in the kitchen, but they offer unique flavors and textures that red tomatoes can’t match.
From classic fried green tomatoes to innovative salsas and relishes, these unripe gems can transform everyday meals into something special.
Using green tomatoes in your cooking adds tanginess and structure that perfectly complements many dishes, whether you’re frying, pickling, or baking them.
If you’ve got a garden full of tomatoes that won’t ripen before frost or you’ve spotted some at your local farmers market, now is the time to experiment.
Green tomatoes work wonderfully in both savory and sweet recipes – yes, even desserts! They’re versatile ingredients that deserve a spot in your cooking rotation beyond just the classic Southern dish everyone knows.
1. Cajun-Spiced Fried Green Tomatoes
Cajun-spiced fried green tomatoes offer a spicy twist on the classic Southern dish. The tangy, firm green tomatoes create a perfect base for the zesty Cajun seasonings.
To make them, slice firm green tomatoes and coat them in a mixture of flour seasoned with Cajun spice.
Dip them in an egg wash, then coat with panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
These crispy treats are even better when served with a creamy dipping sauce. Try a Cajun-spiced ranch or a spicy remoulade made with mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, and Creole seasoning.
You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more or less Cajun seasoning to the coating.
2. Green Tomato Salsa Verde
Green tomato salsa verde is a perfect way to use unripe tomatoes from your garden. This tangy, bright condiment swaps traditional tomatillos for green tomatoes with delicious results.
To make this salsa, you’ll need green tomatoes, fresh herbs like cilantro, onion, peppers for heat, and lime juice. Some recipes call for lightly charring or roasting the tomatoes first to add depth of flavor.
The process is quick and simple. This versatile salsa pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, can be served over cream cheese as a dip, or used to enhance tacos and grilled meats.
3. Roasted Green Tomato Soup
Roasted Green Tomato Soup is a delicious way to use unripe tomatoes from your garden. The roasting process brings out a smoky sweetness that balances the natural tartness of green tomatoes.
This soup is typically creamy and comforting, perfect for chilly evenings. Many recipes use coconut milk to create a velvety texture while keeping it dairy-free.
You can enhance the flavor with caramelized onions, ginger, and fresh basil. Some versions add leafy greens for extra nutrition.
For a heartier meal, top your soup with homemade croutons, cheddar crisps, or bacon bits. This soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free when made with plant-based ingredients.
4. Baked Fried Green Tomatoes
Baked fried green tomatoes offer all the flavor of the classic dish with less oil and mess. These oven-baked treats get crispy on the outside while keeping the tangy tomato tender on the inside.
To make them, you’ll need green tomatoes, almond milk (or regular milk), eggs, and coating ingredients like almond flour or regular flour. Season your coating with garlic powder and smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
After coating your tomato slices, spray them lightly with cooking oil for that crispy finish. They only take about 20 minutes to bake to golden perfection.
This healthier alternative is just as delicious as traditional fried green tomatoes but with less guilt.
5. Green Tomato Chutney
Green tomato chutney is a tasty way to use up unripe tomatoes. This sweet and sour condiment combines green tomatoes with onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices.
A basic recipe includes about 2.5kg chopped green tomatoes, 0.5kg sliced onions, malt vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and spices like cayenne pepper. Some recipes add raisins or garlic for extra flavor.
This versatile chutney pairs well with cheese, cold meats, and burgers. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Store your homemade chutney in sterilized jars for a delicious way to enjoy your garden’s green tomatoes year-round.
6. Green Tomato Mayonnaise
Green tomato mayonnaise combines the tangy flavor of unripe tomatoes with creamy mayo for a unique condiment. You can use it as a base for remoulade sauce by adding sour cream, mustard, and spices.
Try spreading green tomato mayo on a fried green tomato BLT sandwich for extra flavor. The slight acidity from the green tomatoes cuts through the richness of the mayo, creating a balanced taste.
To make it, blend chopped green tomatoes with prepared mayonnaise, a touch of lemon juice, and seasonings. You can adjust the ratio depending on how pronounced you want the tomato flavor to be.
7. Sweet Green Tomato Cornmeal Muffins
Sweet Green Tomato Cornmeal Muffins offer a tasty way to use unripe tomatoes. They combine the tangy flavor of green tomatoes with the homey taste of cornmeal.
To make these muffins, you’ll need green tomatoes, self-rising white cornmeal mix, eggs, and lemon zest. Start by preheating your oven to 450°F and sautéing the chopped green tomatoes.
Mix your cornmeal with lemon zest and sugar in a large bowl. Create a well in the center for your wet ingredients. The result is a unique breakfast treat that balances savory and sweet flavors.
These muffins make a perfect side dish for soups or a standalone breakfast option.
8. Grilled Green Tomatoes
Grilling green tomatoes creates a delicious smoky flavor while maintaining their firm texture. Slice your green tomatoes about 1/2 inch thick for best results.
Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before placing them on a medium-high heat grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, then flip and grill for 3 minutes on the second side.
You’ll know they’re done when they have nice grill marks but still remain firm to the touch. Grilled green tomatoes make an excellent side dish or can be used as a unique burger topping.
For a creative meal idea, try them in a po’ boy sandwich for a vegetarian twist on the classic.
9. Old-Fashioned Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a classic Southern dish that turns unripe tomatoes into a crispy, savory treat. The traditional recipe keeps things simple but delicious.
Start by slicing firm green tomatoes about 1/4-inch thick. Dredge them in a sequence of flour seasoned with salt and pepper, then dip in buttermilk and egg mixture.
Coat them well in a cornmeal and breadcrumb mix for that signature crunch. Fry in a skillet with hot oil until golden brown on both sides.
Serve these crispy delights with a dipping sauce like Cajun-spiced ranch or remoulade made with mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, and spices.
10. Warm Griddled Green Tomato Salad
This fresh twist on green tomatoes brings a warm, comforting element to your salad plate. Simply slice green tomatoes and cook them on a griddle until they’re softened with light char marks.
The heat from griddling brings out the natural flavors of green tomatoes while maintaining their firm texture. Unlike traditional frying, this method uses less oil while still creating delicious results.
Pair your warm griddled tomatoes with cool elements like fresh greens or creamy burrata cheese for contrast. You can drizzle with a simple vinaigrette or buttermilk dressing to complete the dish.
This salad works great as a light lunch or as a side to grilled proteins during summer gatherings.
11. Fried Green Tomato Sliders with Goat Cheese Mayo
These mini sliders offer a delicious twist on the classic fried green tomato. The star of this dish is thinly sliced green tomatoes soaked in buttermilk, then coated in cornmeal before frying.
The goat cheese mayo adds a tangy, creamy element that perfectly complements the crispy tomatoes. Simply mix soft goat cheese with mayonnaise for a spreadable topping.
Serve these on soft mini buns with a tomatillo-bacon relish for extra flavor. The combination of tangy tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and savory bacon creates a perfect balance of flavors in each bite.
You can adjust the cornmeal coating with your favorite seasonings for a customized flavor profile.
12. Green Tomato & Feta Salad
Green tomato and feta salad offers a tangy, refreshing dish that’s perfect for using unripe tomatoes. This salad combines wedges of green tomatoes with crumbled feta cheese for a delightful contrast of flavors.
To make this salad, cut green tomatoes into wedges and combine with thinly sliced onions and minced garlic. Add fresh basil for a fragrant touch.
Dress the salad with olive oil and vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. The tartness of green tomatoes pairs wonderfully with the creamy, salty feta.
This versatile salad works as a side dish for grilled meats or as a light lunch option.
13. Green Tomato Ketchup
Green tomato ketchup is a tangy, sweet condiment that uses unripe tomatoes instead of red ones. It’s a great way to use up end-of-season green tomatoes.
To make green tomato ketchup, you’ll need green tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, vinegar, sugar, and spices. Some recipes call for celery and salt as well.
The process typically involves chopping the vegetables, layering them with salt, and letting them stand overnight. Then you rinse and drain the mixture before cooking.
The finished ketchup has a unique flavor that’s more complex than regular ketchup. It works well with fries, burgers, or as a base for sauces.
14. Preserved Green Tomatoes
Preserved green tomatoes are a great way to use unripe tomatoes at the end of the growing season. The process is simple but requires patience.
Start by slicing fully sized green tomatoes that haven’t ripened yet. Coat them in salt to draw out moisture.
You’ll need white wine vinegar and your choice of spices. Some recipes call for adding vegetable oil to the jars before refrigerating.
Beryl Shereshewsky’s mother’s recipe highlights that you only need green tomatoes, spices, and patience. These preserved tomatoes make an excellent condiment that can be stored and enjoyed throughout the year.
15. Pickled Green Tomatoes
Pickled green tomatoes are a perfect way to use unripe tomatoes from your garden, especially at the end of the growing season. They offer a tangy, crunchy addition to meals and snacks.
The basic recipe requires green tomatoes, vinegar, salt, and your choice of spices. Many people add garlic, onion, and herbs like oregano for extra flavor. Some recipes include hot peppers for a spicy kick.
No canning is needed for refrigerator pickles. Simply prepare your brine, add the tomatoes, and refrigerate for at least two days before enjoying. This Italian-inspired antipasto is easy to make with basic ingredients.
16. Green Tomato Chow Chow
Green Tomato Chow Chow is a traditional Atlantic Canadian relish that makes great use of unripe tomatoes. This tangy condiment combines green tomatoes with onions, peppers, vinegar, and warm spices like mustard seed and cloves.
You can make this recipe with simple ingredients found in most kitchens. The basic version includes green tomatoes, white onions, vinegar and spices, though many family recipes add sweet or hot peppers for extra flavor.
To prepare Chow Chow, you’ll need to let the vegetables sit overnight with salt before cooking. After draining, combine with vinegar and spices, then can the mixture for long-term storage.
This versatile relish pairs wonderfully with meats, sandwiches, and beans.
17. Fried Green Tomato with Cornmeal-Breadcrumb Coating
Fried green tomatoes with a cornmeal-breadcrumb coating create the perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a tangy, tender interior.
For the best results, slice your green tomatoes about 1/4 inch thick.
The coating process involves three layers: first dredge each slice in flour, then dip in buttermilk or an egg-milk mixture, and finally press into a cornmeal-breadcrumb mixture.
Many cooks enhance this final coating with a mix of cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
Fry the coated tomatoes in a cast iron skillet until golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re done when the coating turns a deep golden color and the tomato softens slightly but still holds its shape.
18. Fried Green Tomato BLHT (Bacon, Lettuce, Halloumi, Tomato)
Take your BLT to the next level by adding crispy fried green tomatoes and golden halloumi cheese. This upgraded sandwich combines the classic elements you love with exciting new textures and flavors.
Start by frying green tomato slices until they’re perfectly crisp on the outside and tangy within.
Add pan-fried halloumi cheese, which offers a salty, squeaky texture that pairs wonderfully with the bacon.
Build your sandwich with crisp lettuce, quality bacon, the fried green tomatoes, and halloumi slices. A spread of mayo or Cajun-style remoulade adds the perfect finishing touch.
You can customize this sandwich with additions like red onion, sprouts, or even a fried egg for extra richness.
19. Green Tomato Relish
Green tomato relish is a delicious way to use up those unripe tomatoes from your garden. This tangy condiment combines green tomatoes with onions and bell peppers for a flavorful mix.
The sweet and sour flavor makes it a versatile addition to many meals. You can use it on sandwiches, hot dogs, or burgers just like pickle relish.
It’s also great with cheese plates, pasta salads, or alongside potatoes.
Making your own relish is simple through canning, allowing you to preserve your garden’s end-of-season green tomatoes.
This recipe is especially useful when frost threatens and you need to harvest tomatoes before they ripen.
20. Spicy Green Tomato Relish
Spicy Green Tomato Relish is a perfect way to use up unripe tomatoes from your garden. This versatile condiment combines green tomatoes with bell peppers, onions, and spicy peppers for a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.
You can easily adjust the heat level by changing the type or amount of hot peppers used.
The relish works well as a topping for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even pan-fried fish.
For a quick appetizer, try serving this relish over cream cheese with tortilla chips.
Canning this relish also makes it a great way to preserve your garden’s bounty for year-round enjoyment.
21. Green Tomato Casserole
Green tomato casserole offers a delicious way to use unripe tomatoes from your garden. Unlike fried green tomatoes, this version is baked for a healthier option.
To make this dish, slice green tomatoes thinly and layer them in a baking dish.
Mix in seasonings like salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar to balance the tartness.
Many recipes call for a topping of breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers mixed with melted butter.
Sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory element when sprinkled throughout the layers.
Some variations include bacon and sautéed onions for extra flavor.
Bake at 350°F until golden and bubbly for a comforting side dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Green Tomatoes
Green tomatoes pack a powerful nutritional punch while being low in calories. They offer several health benefits that make them worth adding to your meals beyond just their unique tangy flavor.
Vitamins and Minerals
Green tomatoes are excellent sources of vitamin C, providing immune system support and helping your body heal wounds.
A single medium green tomato contains approximately 23 mg of vitamin C, about 25% of your daily requirement.
Green tomatoes also contain significant amounts of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health. They provide potassium that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in your body.
These unripe fruits contain small but valuable amounts of vitamin A, supporting eye health and immune function.
You’ll also find B vitamins like folate, which is especially important for cell growth and development.
The mineral content in green tomatoes includes manganese, which helps with metabolism and bone formation. They also provide some magnesium and phosphorus to support various body functions.
Antioxidant Properties
Green tomatoes contain powerful antioxidants that help fight free radicals in your body. These compounds, including chlorophyll and various phytochemicals, may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
The alkaloid tomatine, found in higher concentrations in green tomatoes than ripe ones, has shown potential benefits in laboratory studies. Research suggests it may have antimicrobial properties and possible anticancer effects.
Green tomatoes also contain quercetin and kaempferol, flavonoids that help protect your cells from damage.
These compounds may reduce your risk of chronic diseases and support heart health.
The antioxidant content in green tomatoes helps support your immune system and may slow cellular aging. Their unique antioxidant profile differs from red tomatoes, offering complementary benefits when both are included in your diet.
Cooking Tips for Green Tomatoes
Green tomatoes need special handling and cooking techniques to bring out their best flavors. These unripe tomatoes have a firm texture and tangy taste that can transform into delicious dishes with the right approach.
Selecting the Right Tomatoes
Choose green tomatoes that are firm and free from blemishes.
For frying or baking, select medium to large tomatoes that feel solid when gently squeezed. They should be completely green or just showing the tiniest hint of color change.
The best green tomatoes for cooking are fully sized but unripe. Avoid small, immature green tomatoes as they may be too bitter.
If you’re harvesting from your garden, pick tomatoes that have reached their full size but haven’t started ripening.
For pickling or relishes, slightly smaller green tomatoes work well since they’ll fit better in jars.
Store green tomatoes at room temperature if you plan to use them within a few days. For longer storage, keep them in a single layer in a cool, dark place.
Preparation Techniques
Always wash green tomatoes thoroughly before use. For most recipes, remove the stem and cut away any blemishes.
Slice tomatoes about ¼-inch thick for frying and ½-inch thick for grilling or baking.
To reduce bitterness, lightly salt tomato slices and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels before proceeding with your recipe.
For the classic fried green tomatoes:
- Dredge slices in flour seasoned with salt and pepper
- Dip in beaten egg or buttermilk
- Coat with a mixture of cornmeal and breadcrumbs
When grilling green tomatoes, brush with olive oil first to prevent sticking.
For salsa or relish, dice tomatoes into small, uniform pieces.
You can also reduce acidity by adding a pinch of sugar to green tomato recipes if needed.
