When the seasons change and summer’s warmth begins to fade, many gardeners are left with a bounty of green tomatoes that haven’t quite ripened yet. But don’t let them go to waste! Unripe green tomatoes are perfect for using in a variety of dishes that showcase their unique tanginess and crispy texture. From savory sauces to sweet treats, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering recipes that will inspire you to get creative with your green tomatoes.
Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a main course, or just a snack, these recipes have got you covered. And the best part? They’re all deliciously tangy and perfect for using up those excess green tomatoes before they turn ripe. So go ahead, give one (or two, or three…) of these recipes a try, and discover the amazing flavors that await when you get creative with unripe green tomatoes.
Fried Green Tomatoes with Spicy Remoulade
Savor the crispy fried green tomatoes paired with a creamy, spicy remoulade sauce for a delightful Southern-inspired snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Remoulade Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, coating both sides, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Tomato Chutney with Ginger and Raisins
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect condiment for snacking, sandwiches, or as a side dish. Made with green tomatoes, ginger, and raisins, it’s a flavorful and healthy addition to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped green tomatoes, grated ginger, brown sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is soft and slightly caramelized.
3. Add raisins, apple cider vinegar, and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chutney has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Tomato Salsa Verde with Cilantro and Lime
This vibrant salsa verde is a perfect blend of tangy green tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime juice. It’s a great accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, or as a dip for tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped green tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine green tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeño pepper, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Stir in lime juice and season with salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Green Tomato Pie with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar
This unique pie combines the natural sweetness of green tomatoes with the warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a delicious twist on traditional desserts that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups green tomatoes, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced green tomatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Toss until tomatoes are evenly coated.
3. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place tomato mixture in the pie crust.
4. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit top of pie. Crimp edges to seal.
5. Cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
6. Brush egg wash over top crust and sprinkle with milk.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Tomato Gazpacho with Cucumber and Basil
A refreshing twist on the classic Spanish soup, this gazpacho combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the coolness of cucumber and the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine green tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This gazpacho is best served chilled.
Green Tomato Relish with Mustard Seeds and Turmeric
This tangy and aromatic relish is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, cheeses, or as a topping for crackers. Made with green tomatoes, mustard seeds, and turmeric, it’s a flavorful twist on traditional tomato relishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup mustard seeds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced green tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mustard seeds, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the relish has thickened slightly.
5. If using garlic, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Tomato and Bacon Jam
A sweet and tangy condiment that’s perfect for topping toast, using as a sandwich spread, or serving alongside grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
3. Leave the grease in the skillet and add the chopped green tomatoes. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until they’re tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir until combined.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon until well combined.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the jam has thickened slightly.
7. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Tomato Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
This refreshing twist on the classic caprese salad combines sweet green tomatoes with creamy fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the green tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of fresh mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic glaze.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Green Tomato Fritters with Garlic Aioli
Perfect for using up those ripe green tomatoes, these crispy fritters are served with a rich and creamy garlic aioli that will elevate your snack game.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Aioli (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the diced green tomatoes and stir until well coated.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the tomato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels.
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Serve with Green Tomato Fritters.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on frying time)
Green Tomato and Corn Chowder
As the summer winds down, this hearty chowder recipe celebrates the last hurrah of green tomatoes and sweet corn. A creamy, flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced green tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in green tomatoes, corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Shakshuka with Poached Eggs
Discover the vibrant flavors of North Africa with this simple and delicious recipe, where sweet green tomatoes meet savory spices and creamy poached eggs. Perfect for brunch or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 eggs, for poaching
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced green tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
5. Create wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Tomato Tarte Tatin with Caramelized Onions
This innovative twist on the classic French dessert takes the sweetness of caramelized onions and pairs it with the tanginess of green tomatoes, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Arrange tomato slices in a single layer on the caramelized onions.
4. Roll out pie crust and place it on top of the tomatoes. Trim excess dough.
5. Brush egg wash over the crust and cut a few slits to allow steam escape.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Green Tomato Kimchi with Korean Chili Flakes
This kimchi recipe combines the freshness of green tomatoes with the bold heat of Korean chili flakes, creating a unique and addictive flavor profile. Perfect for adding a spicy kick to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons coarse salt
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine green tomatoes and coarse salt. Let it sit for 2 hours to allow the tomatoes to release their juices.
2. Rinse the tomatoes with cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a blender or food processor, blend chili flakes, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and water until you get a smooth paste.
4. Combine the tomato mixture with the chili paste and mix well.
5. Pack the kimchi into a jar, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets. Leave about 1 inch of space at the top.
6. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including soaking time)
Green Tomato and Shrimp Ceviche
This vibrant ceviche combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the succulence of shrimp, all infused with the brightness of lime juice. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2-3 green tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, green tomatoes, and lime juice.
2. Stir gently to combine, making sure the ingredients are well coated with the lime juice.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Green Tomato Bread with Walnuts and Honey
Savor the sweetness of fresh green tomatoes paired with the richness of walnuts and honey in this moist and flavorful bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup green tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Butter, melted (for greasing the loaf pan)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, eggs, diced green tomatoes, chopped walnuts, and honey. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Green Tomato and Eggplant Curry
This vibrant curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, tangy green tomatoes, and tender eggplant. It’s an ideal side dish or main course that pairs well with naan, rice, or roti.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced green tomatoes and sliced eggplant. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Muffins with Cheddar and Jalapeño
Add a twist to traditional muffins by incorporating green tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and spicy jalapeños. These savory treats are perfect for a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine diced green tomatoes, cheddar cheese, cilantro, and jalapeños.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato and Pork Stew with Herbs
Green Tomato and Pork Stew with Herbs Recipe
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the savory taste of pork, all wrapped up in a rich herb broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced green tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork cubes to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to discover the tangy world of green tomatoes! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this underrated ingredient. From crispy delights like Fried Green Tomatoes with Spicy Remoulade and Green Tomato Fritters with Garlic Aioli, to savory dishes like Green Tomato Pie with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar and Green Tomato Curry, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or a spicy kick, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with green tomatoes.
