Ah, the sweet taste of summer! There’s nothing quite like biting into a juicy, fresh sliced tomato. Whether you’re snacking on them straight from the garden or incorporating them into a delicious recipe, tomatoes are the epitome of summertime flavor. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that celebrate the humble tomato in all its glory. From classic Caprese salads to creative sandwiches and savory tarts, we’ve got you covered with our list of fresh sliced tomato recipes.
Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze
A simple yet elegant salad that showcases the flavors of Italy. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe 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 (see note)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top tomatoes with mozzarella slices.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad.
4. Brush balsamic glaze over the salad in a zigzag pattern.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top of the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Note: Balsamic glaze is a thick, syrupy reduction of balsamic vinegar. You can make your own by reducing 1 cup of balsamic vinegar on low heat for about 30 minutes or use store-bought glaze.
Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Lemon Dressing
This refreshing Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Lemon Dressing is the perfect side dish or light lunch for warm weather. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it an ideal option for a quick meal or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the tomato-cucumber mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bruschetta with Sliced Tomatoes and Garlic
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant appetizer, featuring sweet and tangy sliced tomatoes atop crispy garlic-infused bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, cored and thinly sliced
– 1 baguette, preferably day-old
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the bread and sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, arrange the tomato slices on top of the toasted bread.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Salad with Sliced Tomatoes and Feta
This refreshing salad combines the bold flavors of Greece with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes. A simple and satisfying side dish or light lunch, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce and sliced tomatoes.
2. Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add a splash of red wine vinegar for an extra burst of flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and at room temperature.
Tomato and Avocado Sandwich on Sourdough
This Tomato and Avocado Sandwich on Sourdough is a simple yet flavorful combination that highlights the best of summer’s bounty. Crunchy sourdough bread provides the perfect base for creamy avocado, sweet tomatoes, and a hint of tanginess.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of sourdough bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the sourdough bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on one slice of bread.
3. Top with tomato slices, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Marinated Sliced Tomatoes with Herbs
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this simple and delicious recipe for marinated sliced tomatoes. Perfect as a side dish, topping, or addition to sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, parsley, and basil.
2. Add the tomato slices to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Tomato and Mozzarella Panzanella Salad
This classic Italian salad is a perfect combination of fresh flavors and textures. Crisp bread, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together to create a simple yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 cup stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss bread with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves.
3. Add the toasted bread cubes to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with remaining 2 tbsp olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Tomato Salsa with Cilantro and Lime
Brighten up your tacos, grilled meats, or veggies with this vibrant and flavorful salsa! This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the pungency of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and chopped jalapeño.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is best served fresh, but it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tomato and Onion Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette
This fresh and flavorful salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and thinly sliced onions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the tomato and onion mixture, tossing to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Grilled Cheese with Sliced Tomatoes and Basil
Elevate your grilled cheese game by adding juicy sliced tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves. This simple yet flavorful combination is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone)
– 2 large tomato slices
– 4-6 fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter or spray one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with cheese, tomato slices, and basil leaves.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Tomato and Cucumber Gazpacho
This classic Spanish gazpacho is a perfect way to beat the heat on a hot summer day. This simple recipe combines juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and savory bread for a deliciously refreshing soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/4 cup stale bread, torn into small pieces
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, and bread.
2. Pour in the water and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chilling)
Tomato Tart with Puff Pastry and Goat Cheese
A flavorful and visually appealing tart that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange tomato slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle goat cheese over the tomatoes.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BLT Sandwich with Thick-Sliced Tomatoes
Classic BLT Sandwich with Thick-Sliced Tomatoes Recipe
The humble BLT gets a boost from juicy, thick-sliced tomatoes in this simple yet satisfying sandwich recipe. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, this twist on the classic will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise (or to taste)
– 4 slices of white bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
2. Spread one slice of bread with mayonnaise.
3. Add two lettuce leaves, three tomato slices, and two pieces of cooked bacon to each sandwich half.
4. Top with another slice of bread.
5. Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tomato and Watermelon Salad with Mint
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of tomatoes, all tied together with the cooling flavor of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes)
– 3 cups diced fresh watermelon
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and watermelon.
2. Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the top of the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and at room temperature.
Tomato and Egg Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast scramble that combines the richness of eggs with the tanginess of tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter or non-stick cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
2. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add butter or non-stick cooking spray to the pan, then pour in the egg mixture.
4. Let the eggs cook for 30 seconds, then use a spatula to gently scramble them.
5. Add the diced tomato to the pan and stir to combine with the eggs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tomato and Chickpea Salad with Tahini Dressing
This vibrant salad is a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, combining sweet tomatoes, creamy chickpeas, and tangy tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and chickpeas.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, lemon juice, and tahini until smooth.
3. Add the olive oil to the tahini mixture and whisk until combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the tomato-chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tomato and Corn Salad with Lime Dressing
Summer’s sweetest ingredients come together in this vibrant salad, perfect for a quick and refreshing meal or as a side dish. Juicy tomatoes, crunchy corn, and zesty lime dressing create a harmonious blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes and corn kernels.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the tomato-corn mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Tomato and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
A flavorful and nutritious twist on classic chicken breast, this recipe combines the savory flavors of tomatoes and spinach with tender chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, diced tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the tomato-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of each breast.
6. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and Zucchini Gratin with Parmesan
This vibrant gratin is a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of summer, with juicy tomatoes and zucchinis baked in a creamy Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss zucchini and tomato slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Arrange half the vegetable mixture in the prepared dish. Top with half the Parmesan cream sauce.
6. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining Parmesan cream sauce.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until vegetables are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato and Basil Pasta Salad with Olive Oil
This refreshing pasta salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, ideal for hot summer days. With minimal cooking required, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be served as a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. salt
– 1/2 tsp. black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss again to coat with the tomato-basil mixture.
4. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of fresh sliced tomatoes! This article presents 20 delicious recipe ideas that showcase the versatility and taste of this summer staple. From classic caprese salads to innovative sandwiches and savory pasta dishes, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal or snack. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for some new ideas, this collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, slice up those tomatoes, and get cooking!
