As summer arrives, there’s no better way to make the most of its fleeting warmth than with a garden full of juicy, sweet cherry tomatoes. These bite-sized fruits (yes, they’re technically a fruit!) are perfect for adding a burst of flavor and color to your meals. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of cherry tomatoes. From classic pasta dishes to innovative salads and savory snacks, we’ve got you covered.
From simple yet impressive appetizers like Cherry Tomato and Basil Bruschetta to show-stopping main courses like Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the variety of flavors and textures on offer here is sure to inspire.
Read on for our collection of 18 flavorful cherry tomato recipes that will make your summer meals shine!
Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta
Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta: A Delicious Twist on Classic Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of pasta, creating a flavor profile that’s both simple and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy this tasty dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and cooked pasta.
6. Toss everything together, adding Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
This classic Italian appetizer is a perfect showcase for the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the freshness of basil. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and elegant snack or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Top toasted bread with tomato-basil mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Burst Cherry Tomato Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, showcasing the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the tanginess of fresh mozzarella. With only a few ingredients, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
3. Add balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Skewers
These bite-sized skewers are perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a quick addition to your next meal. With the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, cut into quarters
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a tomato half and a mozzarella quarter onto each skewer.
3. Repeat step 2 until all ingredients are used up.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Garlic Confit
Elevate your cooking with this effortless recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the rich flavor of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for pasta, meat, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 6-8 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, garlic slices, and salt. Cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes or until garlic is tender and golden.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the saucepan with garlic confit. Stir gently to coat.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are caramelized and tender.
5. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Avocado Salsa
Combine the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of avocado for a deliciously unique salsa perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. This flavorful condiment is easy to make and adds a pop of color to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir in cilantro and lime juice.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes of prep work.
Cherry Tomato and Feta Tart
A simple yet elegant tart that combines the flavors of cherry tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and flaky pastry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange cherry tomatoes on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese over the tomatoes.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with olive oil and season with garlic, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Spinach Quiche
This quiche is a perfect combination of sweet cherry tomatoes and savory spinach, wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. It’s an ideal brunch dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the spinach leaves and cherry tomatoes in the pie crust.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables.
6. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Balsamic Glaze Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with a sweet and tangy combination of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and rich balsamic glaze. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust to desired thickness.
3. Spread a thin layer of olive oil on the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices on top of the crust.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the toppings.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Herb Focaccia
This flavorful focaccia combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for a quick and easy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes; place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Punch down the dough; shape into a rectangle.
6. Top with cherry tomatoes, parsley, garlic, and basil; drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Zucchini Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite meals. This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the tender crunch of zucchini, all in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are well coated with the sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Chickpea Curry
This vibrant curry is a perfect blend of sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic spices. It’s an easy and quick recipe that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing gazpacho recipe, perfect for a summer evening. The sweetness of cherry tomatoes pairs beautifully with the crispness of cucumbers, all blended together in a delicious and easy-to-make soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cored
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, seeded
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This gazpacho is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Cherry Tomato and Corn Chowder
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and corn with the comfort of a warm chowder. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add paprika and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and corn; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in heavy cream (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Add some flavor and excitement to your pasta dish with this simple yet impressive recipe. Cherry tomatoes and ricotta cheese combine perfectly in these stuffed shells, making them a great choice for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Add halved cherry tomatoes to the cheese mixture and stir gently.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the tomato-ricotta mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
7. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian dish combines succulent shrimp with sweet cherry tomatoes and a hint of garlic, all wrapped up in a light and zesty sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fettuccine or other long pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they release their juices and start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in white wine (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
7. Combine cooked shrimp and pasta with tomato sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Arugula Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful flatbread recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying bite. This sweet and savory combination of cherry tomatoes and peppery arugula on a crispy flatbread is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made or homemade flatbread (about 10 inches in diameter)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cups fresh arugula leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added richness)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Top with cherry tomatoes, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add fresh arugula leaves, slightly overlapping each other.
6. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the flatbread is crispy and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Parmesan Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that highlights the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a main course or side, this risotto is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked until they release their juices and start to break down.
6. Remove from heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 flavorful cherry tomato recipes perfect for summer meals! From classic pasta dishes like Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta to refreshing salads like Burst Cherry Tomato Salad, and from savory skewers to decadent tarts, there’s something for everyone. These mouthwatering recipes showcase the sweet and tangy flavors of cherry tomatoes in a variety of cuisines, from Italian and Greek to Mexican and Indian-inspired dishes. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight meals or impressive dinner party ideas, these recipes are sure to please!
