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This collection of Fresh Tomato Recipes has all you need to make the best, most delicious foods using tomatoes! From salads to side dishes and everything in between, I’ve got just what you need to take advantage of summer’s tomato bounty, along with tips for storage and saving.
Need some new recipes? Looking for tips on how to use and store tomatoes? Then, today is your lucky day! I’ve put together this roundup of the BEST fresh tomato recipes that I use all year long.
During the summer, when fresh ripe tomatoes are readily available, I use any and all excuses possible to make a recipe with them. So, let’s get to it!
Table of contents
Tips For Buying The Best Tomatoes
- Don’t buy tomatoes in plastic or in any kind of packaging.
- Never buy tomatoes in a cold or refrigerated case. They will be mealy and have little to no flavor.
- Check to make sure the skin is firm without any bruising.
- Take a sniff! Smell the tomato at the stem. It should smell fresh, and slightly sweet.
How To Store Tomatoes
Fresh tomatoes should be stored at room temperature. They contain an enzyme that reacts to cold temperatures, causing them to break down and turn mealy and mushy.
I store fresh tomatoes on the counter in the kitchen or out on the porch until I’m ready to use them.
Appetizers
Get any party started with these amazing appetizers featuring tomatoes. Both of these recipes can be made in minutes, and not only are they super yummy, but they also have dual uses as toppings and side dishes.
Salads
Vibrant, juicy tomatoes are always front and center in summer salads. Whether serving these salads alongside grilled meats or seafood or turning them into the main dish, these easy-to-make recipes are a surefire hit.
Salad Dressings
Any good salad needs to be “dressed up” with just the right salad dressing. Here are some of my homemade favorites.
Pasta Salads
Pasta salad might just be the winner of the “summer’s best side dish” contest. Whether you are serving any of these pasta salads at a picnic, family dinner, cookout, or church social, they are guaranteed to get rave reviews.
Give Me More Tomato Recipes!
I’m adding in a few more of my favorite tomato recipes, just for good measure.
How To Roast And Freeze Tomatoes
Roasting tomatoes brings out all of their sweet, fresh flavors that are perfect in soups, sauces, and stews. This post gives you step-by-step instructions on how to roast tomatoes, along with freezing them to use later.
What’s The Best Way To Eat A Tomato?
For me, it’s fresh off the vine, and warm from the sun. I love them with a sprinkle of good sea salt and some fresh cracked pepper. Of course, it’s not summer in the South without a tomato sandwich. It’s got to be on white bread, with a big smear of Duke’s mayo, and a healthy sprinkle of salt and pepper. Simple, and delicious.
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