10+ Easy Recipes with Tomatoes for Delicious Meals

10+ Easy Recipes with Tomatoes for Delicious Meals

ByCook Fanatic Team Reading Time: 9 minutes

Tomatoes are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can easily enhance any meal. You can create simple and tasty dishes using fresh tomatoes that will impress your family and friends. Whether you prefer salads, sauces, or side dishes, there are countless easy recipes to explore.

Ripe tomatoes, basil, and garlic sit on a wooden cutting board next to a chef's knife. A pot simmers on the stove in the background

Using tomatoes in your cooking not only adds flavor but also brings vibrant color to your plate. Easy recipes with tomatoes allow you to enjoy this healthy fruit in many different ways. From classic bruschetta to cheesy baked tomatoes, you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy.

1) Bruschetta with Fresh Basil

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and bread on a wooden cutting board, with a knife and a bowl of olive oil nearby

Bruschetta is a delicious and simple dish that showcases fresh tomatoes and basil. This appetizer is perfect for gatherings or a light snack at home. The combination of flavors is refreshing and satisfying.

To make bruschetta, start with ripe tomatoes. Chop them and mix with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Toast slices of a baguette until golden. Drizzle some olive oil on top before adding the tomato mixture. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 baguette
  • Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Chop the tomatoes and mix with garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toast the baguette slices in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Drizzle olive oil on the toasted bread.
  5. Top the bread with the tomato mixture and enjoy!

2) Baked Tomatoes with Cheese

Fresh tomatoes halved, topped with melted cheese, and sprinkled with herbs on a baking sheet

Baked tomatoes with cheese are a simple and delicious dish. They make a great side or appetizer for any meal. You can use fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, or parmesan for a tasty combination.

This recipe is quick and requires only a few ingredients. Just slice your tomatoes, add cheese, and bake until bubbly. The result is a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.

Try adding some fresh basil for extra flavor. It pairs perfectly with the tomatoes and cheese.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium tomatoes
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (or parmesan)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Top each tomato half with cheese.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

3) Classic Tomato Soup

A pot simmering with red tomato soup, surrounded by fresh tomatoes, basil, and a loaf of crusty bread

Classic tomato soup is a comforting dish that’s easy to make. You can prepare it using fresh or canned tomatoes. Both options provide rich flavor and texture.

You’ll start by cooking chopped onions in olive oil until they’re soft. Then, add tomato paste and whole canned tomatoes to the mixture. For a delicious twist, blend the soup for a creamy touch.

Simmer the soup with vegetable broth for about 30 minutes. Adding a pinch of salt enhances the taste. Serve this warm soup with grilled cheese for a perfect pairing.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
  4. Add the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth.
  5. Simmer for about 30 minutes.
  6. Blend the soup until smooth.
  7. Season with salt and serve hot.

4) Tomato and Garlic Pasta

A pot of boiling water with pasta, a bowl of fresh tomatoes, and cloves of garlic on a cutting board

Tomato and garlic pasta is a simple and delicious meal that’s perfect for any day. It highlights fresh tomatoes and aromatic garlic, making it light and flavorful.

To start, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a tasty dish. This pasta is quick to prepare, ideal for busy evenings.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta
  • 2 cups (about 300 grams) fresh tomatoes, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions in boiling salted water.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes.
  5. Drain the pasta and mix it into the skillet with the tomatoes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper. Add fresh basil if desired.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy!

5) Oven-Roasted Tomatoes with Thyme

Fresh tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with thyme, ready to be roasted in the oven

Oven-roasted tomatoes with thyme are simple and delicious. They make a great side dish or a topping for many meals.

To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Select firm tomatoes and wash them well. Cut them in half and place them on a baking sheet.

Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes. Sprinkle with fresh thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until they are tender and bursting with flavor. You can also add feta cheese for extra taste if you like.

Ingredients

  • 4 large tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and cut the tomatoes in half.
  3. Place tomatoes on a baking sheet.
  4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  5. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until tender.

6) Simple Tomato Basil Salad

A vibrant red tomato sliced in half, surrounded by fresh basil leaves on a white plate

This Simple Tomato Basil Salad is fresh and easy to make. It uses ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil for a delightful mix of flavors.

You will need just a few ingredients. Chop your tomatoes and roughly tear the basil leaves.

For the dressing, drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top. Toss everything together gently, and it’s ready to serve.

This salad is a great side dish or a quick lunch option. Enjoy the bright taste of summer anytime!

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe tomatoes
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces.
  3. In a bowl, combine tomatoes and basil.
  4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
  5. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Toss gently to combine. Serve fresh.

7) Homemade Tomato Sauce

Fresh tomatoes being chopped, simmering in a pot with garlic, onions, and herbs. A wooden spoon stirs the mixture as steam rises

Making homemade tomato sauce is simple and rewarding. You can use fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.

Start by chopping your tomatoes and gathering your ingredients. You will need olive oil, garlic, onions, and some seasonings.

In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft.

Next, stir in your chopped tomatoes. Add salt and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Let the mixture simmer for about 20-30 minutes.

For a fresh touch, consider adding basil just before serving.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds fresh tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Fresh basil (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
  3. Stir in chopped tomatoes, salt, and sugar.
  4. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
  5. Add basil before serving, if desired.

8) Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella

A wooden cutting board with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil

Caprese salad is a simple and refreshing dish. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side at dinner. You will need fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil.

To start, slice the tomatoes and mozzarella. Make the slices about half an inch thick for the best taste. Then, layer them on a plate, alternating between the tomato and mozzarella.

Now add fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for extra flavor. A sprinkle of salt and pepper will enhance the taste.

This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy it with bread or as a side with grilled meat.

Ingredients

  • Fresh mozzarella
  • Ripe tomatoes
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Olive oil
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

  1. Slice tomatoes and mozzarella into half-inch thick slices.
  2. Arrange slices on a plate, alternating between tomato and mozzarella.
  3. Top with fresh basil leaves.
  4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
  5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

9) Tomato and Bean Salad

A bright red tomato and green bean salad arranged on a white plate with a drizzle of dressing

Tomato and bean salad is a fresh, simple dish you can whip up quickly. It combines juicy tomatoes with tender beans for a delightful taste. This salad is not only tasty but also healthy.

You can use white beans or any beans you have on hand. Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. A light dressing made with olive oil and lemon juice brings everything together.

This salad is perfect as a side or a light main dish. It’s great for lunch or a picnic. You can also customize it with your favorite veggies.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of white beans (15 oz), drained
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the beans and cherry tomatoes.
  2. Add the chopped red onion and parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

10) Stuffed Tomatoes with Rice

A kitchen counter with fresh tomatoes, rice, and various seasonings laid out next to a cutting board and knife

Stuffed tomatoes with rice are a simple and delicious dish. This recipe allows the tomatoes to shine while being filled with flavorful ingredients. You only need a few items for this meal.

Start by hollowing out some ripe tomatoes. You can mix rice with herbs, olive oil, and cheese for added taste.

Once your filling is ready, stuff it into the tomatoes. Place them upright in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.

Cook the tomatoes at 350°F (175°C) until they are tender, usually about 30 minutes. Enjoy this tasty dish as a side or light meal!

Ingredients

  • 6 medium ripe tomatoes
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • ½ cup diced mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Hollow out the tomatoes and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, mozzarella, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stuff the tomatoes with the rice mixture.
  5. Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish.
  6. Drizzle with more olive oil.
  7. Bake for 30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.

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