Cherry tomatoes are small but mighty fruits that can add a burst of flavor to many dishes. These tiny tomatoes come in various colors and shapes, making them both tasty and visually appealing.
They’re perfect for snacking, cooking, or adding to salads and other recipes.
You can use cherry tomatoes in lots of easy and yummy ways. From pasta dishes to appetizers, these little tomatoes can be the star of your meal or a great supporting ingredient.
Whether you like them raw, roasted, or cooked in sauces, there are many recipes to try.
Let’s explore some tasty ideas for using cherry tomatoes in your cooking.
1. Spicy Cherry Tomato Pasta
Spicy Cherry Tomato Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish you can make in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a tasty meal without much fuss.
The star ingredients are cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. These create a simple yet zesty sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
You can use any pasta shape you like, such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne. For extra flavor, try adding capers or fresh basil.
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top gives it a nice finish.
This dish is adaptable too. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste or add other veggies for more variety.
2. Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes is a quick and easy dish you can make in about 10 minutes. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch.
To make this salad, you’ll need cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Cut the tomatoes in half and mix them with small mozzarella balls. Add torn basil leaves for flavor.
Dress the salad with olive oil and balsamic glaze. The glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements the fresh ingredients.
For best results, let the salad sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
This colorful salad pairs well with crusty bread or as a side dish for grilled foods. It’s a tasty way to enjoy ripe cherry tomatoes from your garden or farmers market.
3. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes on Toast
Roasted cherry tomatoes on toast make a tasty and simple meal. To make this dish, start by roasting cherry tomatoes in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes.
Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting. While they cook, toast some bread slices until golden brown.
Once the tomatoes are soft and slightly charred, spread them on the toast. You can add extras like garlic, herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for more flavor.
This recipe works well for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. It’s quick to make and lets you enjoy the sweet, intense taste of roasted tomatoes.
4. Cherry Tomato and Feta Tart
This delicious tart combines sweet cherry tomatoes with tangy feta cheese. To make it, you’ll need puff pastry, cherry tomatoes, feta, and a few simple seasonings.
Start by roasting the cherry tomatoes in the oven with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This brings out their natural sweetness.
While the tomatoes roast, prepare your pastry base. Bake it until golden brown, then let it cool slightly.
Spread a thin layer of mustard on the pastry for extra flavor. Then add the roasted tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.
Bake the tart again until the cheese melts and the edges are crispy. Serve warm for a tasty meal or appetizer.
5. Cherry Tomato Gazpacho
Cherry tomato gazpacho is a cool, refreshing soup perfect for hot summer days. This no-cook dish is easy to make and bursting with flavor.
To prepare, blend cherry tomatoes with cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Add a splash of vinegar and olive oil for extra depth.
Season your gazpacho with salt and a dash of hot sauce if you like some heat. Blend until smooth, then chill for at least 3 hours before serving.
Top your gazpacho with croutons, a drizzle of basil oil, or extra diced vegetables for added texture. You can also garnish with whole cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
6. Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
Cherry tomato bruschetta is a tasty appetizer you can make easily. Start by cutting cherry tomatoes in half and mixing them with chopped basil, olive oil, and salt.
Let the tomatoes sit for a few minutes to release their juices. Meanwhile, slice a baguette and brush the pieces with olive oil.
Toast the bread slices until they’re golden brown. Top each slice with the tomato mixture right before serving.
For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomatoes. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a quick snack.
7. Cherry Tomato and Basil Quiche
Cherry tomato and basil quiche is a tasty dish that combines sweet tomatoes with fragrant basil. You can make it with a store-bought crust or create your own.
To prepare, beat eggs with cream, milk, and seasonings. Add grated cheese for extra flavor. Pour this mixture into the crust.
Cut cherry tomatoes in half and arrange them on top of the egg mixture. Sprinkle fresh basil over the tomatoes.
Bake the quiche in a preheated oven until it’s set and golden brown. The cooking time is usually 40-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
This quiche works well for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can serve it hot or at room temperature.
8. Cherry Tomato Pizza Margherita
Cherry Tomato Pizza Margherita is a quick and tasty dish you can make at home. It combines the classic flavors of a margherita pizza with sweet cherry tomatoes.
To make it, stretch pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on a baking sheet. Spread marinara sauce on the dough, leaving a border around the edge.
Add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and halved cherry tomatoes on top. Sprinkle with salt and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake the pizza in a very hot oven, around 425-500°F, for 10-15 minutes. The crust should be crispy and golden, with melted cheese.
When it’s done, add some fresh basil leaves for extra flavor. This simple pizza is perfect for a quick meal or casual get-together.
9. Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad
This refreshing salad combines chewy couscous with juicy cherry tomatoes. You can use Israeli couscous for a chewier texture or regular couscous for a lighter dish.
Start by cooking the couscous according to package instructions. While it cools, slice your cherry tomatoes in half.
Mix the cooked couscous with the tomatoes, adding cucumber for crunch and feta cheese for a tangy flavor. Toss in some chickpeas for protein and fresh herbs like parsley or mint for brightness.
Dress the salad with a simple mixture of olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This versatile dish works great as a side or light main course.
10. Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Skewers
Cherry tomato and mozzarella skewers are a tasty and simple appetizer. You can make them in just 20 minutes with only a few ingredients.
To create these skewers, you’ll need cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and toothpicks. Thread a tomato, basil leaf, and mozzarella ball onto each toothpick.
For extra flavor, marinate the mozzarella in olive oil and Italian seasoning before assembling. You can also drizzle the finished skewers with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
These colorful bites are perfect for parties or as a light snack. They’re easy to eat and look great on a serving platter.
11. Cherry Tomato Salsa
Cherry tomato salsa is a fresh and zesty twist on traditional salsa. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a tasty snack or party appetizer.
To make it, start by chopping onions, garlic, and jalapeños in a food processor. Add cherry tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and spices to the mix.
For a roasted version, bake the cherry tomatoes in the oven at 450°F for 10-12 minutes before adding them to the other ingredients. This brings out their natural sweetness.
You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño. Remember to remove the seeds for a milder salsa.
Serve your homemade cherry tomato salsa with chips, tacos, or grilled meats for a burst of fresh flavor.
12. Cherry Tomato and Avocado Salad
Cherry tomato and avocado salad is a tasty, refreshing dish perfect for warm days. You can make it in just minutes with a few simple ingredients.
Start by halving cherry tomatoes and cubing ripe avocados. Add some finely chopped red onion for a zesty kick.
For the dressing, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything.
You can customize this salad by adding extras like cucumber, feta cheese, or fresh herbs. Parsley and green onions work well.
This salad is great as a light lunch or side dish. The creamy avocado pairs nicely with the juicy tomatoes. It’s a healthy option packed with vitamins and good fats.
13. Cherry Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart
This tasty tart combines sweet cherry tomatoes with creamy goat cheese. Start by roasting the tomatoes in olive oil and balsamic vinegar until they burst.
Roll out puff pastry and score a border around the edges. Spread pesto on the pastry, then sprinkle goat cheese on top.
Arrange the roasted tomatoes in a single layer over the cheese. For extra flavor, add halved olives between the tomatoes.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt before baking. The tart is ready when the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted.
Let it cool slightly before serving. This tart makes a great appetizer or light meal when paired with a salad.
14. Cherry Tomato Pasta Primavera
Cherry Tomato Pasta Primavera is a light and tasty dish perfect for spring and summer. You’ll love the mix of colorful veggies and sweet cherry tomatoes in this pasta.
To make it, cook your favorite pasta until al dente. While it cooks, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil. Add bell peppers, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes to the pan.
Toss the cooked pasta with the veggie mixture. Add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This dish is quick to make and packed with fresh flavors. It’s great for a light dinner or lunch. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.
15. Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Tartine
A Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Tartine is a tasty open-faced sandwich. You start with a slice of crusty bread as the base.
Spread a thick layer of creamy ricotta cheese on the bread. Top it with halved cherry tomatoes for bursts of flavor.
Drizzle some olive oil over the tomatoes. Add salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, sprinkle on some fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Pop the tartine under the broiler for a few minutes. This will warm the cheese and slightly soften the tomatoes. Serve it right away for a quick and delicious meal.
16. Cherry Tomato and Spinach Frittata
This quick and tasty frittata makes a great breakfast or light dinner. You’ll need eggs, milk, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and cheese.
Start by whisking eggs and milk in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet and sauté some diced onion. Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
Pour in the egg mixture and sprinkle halved cherry tomatoes on top. Let it cook on the stove for a few minutes.
Finish the frittata under the broiler for about 8 minutes until the eggs set. The result is a fluffy, colorful dish packed with veggies.
17. Cherry Tomato and Eggplant Ratatouille
Cherry tomatoes and eggplant make a great pair in this tasty ratatouille. You’ll love how the flavors come together when roasted.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Chop eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and onions. Spread them on a baking sheet with whole cherry tomatoes and garlic cloves.
Drizzle everything with olive oil. Add salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Toss to coat evenly. Roast for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
The result is a colorful mix of tender veggies. The cherry tomatoes burst, creating a light sauce.
Serve this ratatouille hot as a side dish or over pasta for a full meal.
18. Cherry Tomato and Pesto Flatbread
Cherry tomato and pesto flatbread is a quick and tasty meal. You can make it in about 30 minutes.
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Spread pesto on a flatbread or pre-made pizza crust. Add mozzarella cheese and halved cherry tomatoes on top.
Bake the flatbread for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown. For extra crispiness, place it directly on the oven rack.
You can add more toppings like olives or pine nuts if you want. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds extra flavor.
This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or appetizer. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or cheeses.
19. Cherry Tomato and Zucchini Noodles
This light and fresh dish combines zucchini noodles with sweet cherry tomatoes.
Start by spiralizing zucchini to create noodle-like strands.
Heat olive oil in a pan and add minced garlic. Sauté for a minute, then toss in halved cherry tomatoes. Cook until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Add the zucchini noodles to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently.
You want the noodles tender but not mushy.
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
Serve immediately for a tasty, low-carb meal that’s packed with summer flavors.
20. Cherry Tomato and Lime Rice
This zesty side dish brings together the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with tangy lime.
Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions.
While the rice cooks, halve your cherry tomatoes. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly.
Mix in the halved cherry tomatoes, lime zest, and lime juice. Add chopped cilantro for extra flavor if you like.
This bright and refreshing rice dish pairs well with grilled meats or fish. You can serve it warm or at room temperature for a tasty addition to your meal.
21. Cherry Tomato and Chickpea Salad
This easy salad combines sweet cherry tomatoes with protein-packed chickpeas. It’s a quick and tasty dish perfect for lunch or as a side.
To make it, mix halved cherry tomatoes and drained chickpeas in a bowl. Add some sliced red onion and chopped parsley for extra flavor and color.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Pour it over the salad and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chill the salad for a couple of hours before serving to let the flavors blend. Give it a quick stir before you eat. This refreshing salad is great on its own or as part of a bigger meal.
22. Cherry Tomato Omelet
Cherry tomato omelets are a tasty and colorful breakfast option.
To make one, start by whisking eggs with a splash of milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Heat some oil or butter in a non-stick pan. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for a couple of minutes until slightly softened.
Pour the egg mixture into the pan, tilting it to spread evenly. As the eggs set, gently lift the edges to let uncooked egg flow underneath.
When the omelet is almost set, add any additional fillings like cheese or herbs. Fold the omelet in half and slide it onto a plate.
This quick and easy dish makes a satisfying meal any time of day. The burst of flavor from the cherry tomatoes pairs perfectly with the fluffy eggs.
23. Cherry Tomato and Basil Risotto
Cherry tomato and basil risotto is a tasty dish that combines rice with fresh flavors. You’ll cook the rice slowly, adding liquid bit by bit until it’s creamy.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil. Add the rice and cook it briefly. Pour in some white wine and let it absorb.
Gradually add warm broth, stirring often. When the rice is nearly done, mix in cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices.
Finish the risotto with butter and grated Parmesan cheese. This creates a rich, creamy texture. The result is a colorful, flavorful meal that’s perfect for dinner.
24. Cherry Tomato and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines sweet cherry tomatoes with protein-packed lentils.
To make it, start by sautéing onions and carrots in olive oil until soft.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in lentils, vegetable broth, and halved cherry tomatoes.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes until the lentils are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme.
This stew is perfect for chilly days and can be customized with your favorite spices. Serve it with crusty bread for a filling meal.
25. Cherry Tomato and Herb Chicken
This dish combines juicy chicken with sweet cherry tomatoes and fragrant herbs.
Start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them in a hot skillet until golden brown on both sides.
Add cherry tomatoes, garlic, and your favorite herbs to the pan. Rosemary, thyme, or basil work great. Let the tomatoes burst and create a flavorful sauce.
Finish cooking the chicken in the oven. The result is tender chicken with a tangy tomato sauce. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
This easy meal comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also impressive enough for guests.
26. Cherry Tomato and Mushroom Skillet
This tasty dish combines juicy cherry tomatoes with earthy mushrooms.
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add quartered mushrooms and cook until browned. Toss in minced garlic and thyme for extra flavor.
Next, add halved cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cover and simmer on low heat.
The tomatoes will burst, creating a flavorful sauce. Serve this versatile skillet as a side dish or toss with pasta for a quick meal.
For added protein, you can include sliced chicken breast. Cook the chicken first, then set aside and add back at the end.
27. Cherry Tomato and Corn Salad
This fresh summer salad combines sweet cherry tomatoes with crisp corn kernels. You can use raw or roasted corn, depending on your preference.
Mix the corn and tomatoes in a large bowl. Add diced cucumber and sliced shallots for extra crunch and flavor.
Make a simple dressing with olive oil, lime juice, and fresh basil. Pour it over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Chill the salad in the fridge for about an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely.
You can customize this salad by adding avocado, feta cheese, or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
28. Cherry Tomato and Tuna Nicoise Salad
Cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor to this classic French salad. You’ll love the mix of textures and tastes.
Start with a bed of crisp lettuce. Add chunks of canned tuna, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and boiled potatoes.
Toss in some blanched green beans and briny olives. The star is the cherry tomatoes – use a mix of colors for visual appeal.
Dress it all with a tangy vinaigrette. Include some minced garlic and Dijon mustard for extra zing.
This salad makes a perfect light meal. It’s packed with protein and veggies. Enjoy it on a warm summer day or any time you want a taste of the French Riviera.
29. Cherry Tomato and Sausage Skillet
You can make a tasty Cherry Tomato and Sausage Skillet in about 30 minutes.
Start by cooking Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes until it browns.
Add garlic and cook for another 2 minutes. Toss in cherry tomatoes and let them soften for a few minutes. If you like, add some white wine and let it reduce.
This dish goes well with pasta. You can add cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss everything together. For extra flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
30. Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Sandwiches
Cherry tomato and cucumber sandwiches are a refreshing summer treat. You can make them quickly for a light lunch or snack.
Start with thin slices of bread. Spread a layer of cream cheese or hummus for a base.
Cut cherry tomatoes in half and slice cucumbers thinly. Layer these on your bread. Add salt and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like basil or dill. You can also include a slice of cheese or some avocado.
These sandwiches are perfect for picnics or tea parties. They’re light, crisp, and bursting with fresh flavors.
Nutritional Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes pack a powerful nutritional punch. These tiny fruits are low in calories but rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They offer many health benefits when included as part of a balanced diet.
Vitamins and Minerals
Cherry tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C. A half-cup serving provides about 20% of your daily vitamin C needs. This vitamin boosts your immune system and helps your body absorb iron.
These small tomatoes also contain vitamin A, which is good for your eyes and skin. You’ll get vitamin K for blood clotting and bone health too.
Cherry tomatoes provide potassium, an important mineral for heart function and muscle control. They also contain small amounts of iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Antioxidant Properties
The bright red color of cherry tomatoes comes from lycopene. This powerful antioxidant may help protect your cells from damage. Some studies suggest it might lower the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
Cherry tomatoes also contain beta-carotene, another antioxidant. Your body turns beta-carotene into vitamin A.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two more antioxidants found in cherry tomatoes. These may help protect your eyes from harmful light waves.
Adding cherry tomatoes to your meals can boost your intake of these beneficial compounds. Try them in salads, pasta dishes, or as a healthy snack.
Cooking Techniques for Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are small but mighty. They can be cooked in many ways to bring out their sweet flavor. Here are two popular methods to prepare these tiny treats.
Roasting
Roasting cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the tomatoes and pat them dry. Put them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor. Mix gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.
Roast for 15-20 minutes. The tomatoes will start to burst and caramelize. Their skins will wrinkle slightly. This is a sign they’re ready. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Roasted cherry tomatoes are great in pasta, on bruschetta, or as a side dish. They also make a tasty addition to salads or grain bowls.
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick way to cook cherry tomatoes on the stovetop.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the tomatoes when the oil is hot.
Cook the tomatoes for 5-7 minutes.
Shake the pan often to turn them. They’ll start to soften and blister. Some may burst, releasing their juices.
You can add garlic, shallots, or herbs for extra flavor.
A splash of balsamic vinegar near the end of cooking adds a nice tang.
Sautéed cherry tomatoes are perfect for topping grilled meats or fish.
They also make a quick sauce for pasta or a tasty side dish.
Try them on top of crusty bread for an easy appetizer.