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Garden Tomato Recipes

Garden tomato recipes

Are you looking for ways to use the abundance of fresh garden tomatoes and other garden vegetables? If so, you’re in luck! There are so many mouthwatering recipes that you can make using fresh garden tomatoes. From soups to salads to pasta dishes, tomatoes are so versatile and delicious. In this blog post, we’re going to share 15 of my favorite recipes that use fresh garden tomatoes and other garden produce. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these garden tomato recipes will inspire you to make the most of your garden harvest.

Tomato and Basil Bruschetta

This simple and tantalizing Tomato and Basil Bruschetta recipe is a great way to use your fresh garden produce. 

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe garden tomatoes
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 bunch of fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 loaf of crusty bread, sliced and toasted

Instructions:

  1. Chop the tomatoes into small dice and place them in a bowl.
  2. Add the minced garlic, chopped basil leaves, and extra virgin olive oil to the bowl.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything together gently.
  4. Toast slices of bread until they are golden brown.
  5. Once the toast is cool enough to handle, spoon the tomato mixture onto each slice.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Tomato and Basil Bruschetta!

This refreshing appetizer is not only bursting with flavors but is also a great way to showcase your garden’s bounty. Ready in just a few minutes, it’s perfect for a quick snack or a dinner party starter.

Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

Nothing screams summer quite like a fresh Tomato and Mozzarella Salad. This is a classic Italian recipe, known as Caprese Salad, that showcases the flavors of garden-fresh tomatoes beautifully.

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe garden tomatoes
  • 200g of fresh mozzarella cheese
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Balsamic reduction for drizzle (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into even rounds.
  2. Arrange the slices on a platter, alternating and overlapping a slice of tomato, a slice of mozzarella, and a basil leaf.
  3. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Optionally, drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction for an extra flavor kick.
  5. Serve immediately and savor the taste of summer with this Tomato and Mozzarella Salad!

This salad recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients from your garden, when combined with a few pantry staples, can create a dish that’s refreshing, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible.

Tomato and Cucumber Salad

This refreshing Tomato and Cucumber Salad recipe is the perfect side dish for any meal. The crisp, sweet taste of fresh cucumbers combined with juicy, ripe tomatoes creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe garden tomatoes
  • 1 large cucumber
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • A handful of fresh parsley leaves
  • 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Slice the tomatoes and cucumbers into even rounds, and thinly slice the red onion.
  2. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumbers, and onion.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld together.

This Tomato and Cucumber Salad is a great way to enjoy the fresh produce from your garden. It’s light, healthy, and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a picnic or a quick lunch.

Caprese Skewers

Take your Caprese salad to the next level with these delightful Caprese Skewers that are perfect for a light appetizer or snack. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 200g fresh mozzarella cheese balls
  • A bunch of fresh basil leaves
  • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
  • Balsamic reduction for drizzling
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Wooden skewers

Instructions:

  1. Wash the cherry tomatoes and pat them dry.
  2. Thread a tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella cheese ball onto a skewer.
  3. Repeat this process until all skewers are assembled.
  4. Arrange the skewers on a platter, then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. 

Caprese Skewers are a fun and portable take on the classic Caprese salad. They offer a burst of fresh flavor and are a fantastic way to showcase your garden tomatoes. Enjoy as an appetizer, snack, or even as a side dish at your next barbecue.

Garden Tomato Soup 

Generously flavored with fresh garden tomatoes, this Garden Tomato Soup recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any season.

Ingredients:

  • 8 ripe garden tomatoes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
  • 1 stick of celery, chopped
  • 1 liter of vegetable stock
  • 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Roughly chop the tomatoes and set them aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened.
  3. Add the tomatoes to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they begin to break down.
  4. Pour in the vegetable stock, bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
  5. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches in a countertop blender.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

This Garden Tomato Soup recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy your garden tomatoes. It’s rich, aromatic, and filled with the natural sweetness of tomatoes – a real treat for any home cook.

Garden Tomato Sauce 

My husband makes this sauce all the time and the whole house smells amazing!! Transform your garden tomatoes into a rich and savory tomato sauce with this easy Garden Tomato Sauce recipe. This vibrant and full-bodied sauce is the perfect match for pasta, pizza, and many other dishes.

Ingredients:

  • 10 ripe garden tomatoes
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A pinch of sugar (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Begin by blanching the tomatoes: make small x-shaped incisions at the bottom of each tomato and immerse them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer to cold water. This will make them easier to peel. Occasionally we roast our tomatoes in the oven or on the grill until the skin blisters and it peels off easily. 
  2. Peel the tomatoes and chop them into chunks.
  3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot along with a pinch of sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until it thickens to your preferred consistency.
  5. Tear the basil leaves and stir them into the sauce just before you remove it from the heat.
  6. Use this Garden Tomato Sauce immediately, or let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This Garden Tomato Sauce Recipe delivers a robust and satisfying flavor that celebrates the freshness of your garden tomatoes. Use it as a base for your favorite Italian dishes or elevate simple pasta to gourmet level.

Garden Tomato Salsa

Tomato Salsa Recipe

Add a punch of flavor to your meals with this fresh and vibrant Garden Tomato Salsa. This easy-to-make salsa combines garden-fresh tomatoes with a variety of seasonings and vegetables for a refreshing touch.

Ingredients:

  • 6 ripe garden tomatoes
  • 1 large red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • A handful of fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Chop the tomatoes into small pieces and place them in a large bowl.
  2. Add the chopped red onion, jalapeños, and minced garlic to the bowl.
  3. Squeeze the lime over the tomato mixture, ensuring to distribute the juice evenly.
  4. Stir in the chopped cilantro leaves.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
  7. Let the salsa sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
  8. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

This Garden Tomato Salsa is a tasty and versatile condiment that compliments a variety of dishes. Enjoy it with tortilla chips, tacos, or add a scoop to your salad for a refreshing twist.

Spaghetti Sauce from Garden Tomatoes

Turn your vibrant, garden-fresh tomatoes into a delicious spaghetti sauce with this simple and flavorful recipe. It’s the perfect way to add a homemade touch to your pasta dishes.

Ingredients:

  • 15 ripe garden tomatoes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 sticks of celery, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A pinch of sugar (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Begin by blanching the tomatoes: make an x-shaped incision at the bottom of each tomato and immerse them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer to cold water. Peel the tomatoes and chop them into chunks.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot along with a pinch of sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 60 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  4. Tear the basil leaves and stir them into the sauce just before removing it from the heat. 
  5. Serve hot with your favorite pasta or cool and store in a jar in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This Garden Tomato Spaghetti Sauce showcases the rich and vibrant taste of your garden tomatoes. It’s a delightful homemade alternative to store-bought sauces and brings a fresh and savory element to your pasta dishes.

Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart

This Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart is a delightful treat that brings together the sweet tanginess of garden tomatoes and the creamy, sharp flavor of goat cheese. It’s a perfect appetizer or light lunch.

Ingredients:

  • 8 ripe garden tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 pre-made puff pastry sheet
  • 200g of soft goat cheese
  • 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a tart pan with the puff pastry, pressing it well into the corners. Prick the base with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.
  2. Spread the goat cheese evenly over the pastry base.
  3. Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the goat cheese. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the tomatoes are cooked.
  5. Let the tart cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves.
  6. Slice and serve warm.

This Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart is a celebration of fresh garden tomatoes. The combination of the tangy tomatoes and creamy goat cheese creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. Enjoy it at your next summer gathering or as a delightful weekday treat.

Panzanella Salad Recipe

This Panzanella Salad is a classic Italian dish that utilizes ripe, juicy garden tomatoes. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that celebrates the essence of summer.

Ingredients:

  • 6 ripe garden tomatoes, cut into chunks
  • 1/2 loaf of day-old bread, cut into cubes
  • 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, bread cubes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a vinaigrette.
  3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine everything well.
  4. Let the salad sit for about 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors.
  5. Just before serving, stir in the torn basil leaves.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy.

This Panzanella Salad is a wonderful way to make the most of your garden tomatoes. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch or served as a side dish at a summer BBQ. It’s a flavorful celebration of garden-fresh ingredients.

Tomato and Bacon Frittata

Enjoy a hearty breakfast or brunch with this Tomato and Bacon Frittata. It’s a beautiful blend of savory flavors that make the most of your fresh garden tomatoes.

Ingredients:

  • 6 ripe garden tomatoes, chopped
  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 6 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup of milk
  • 2 tbsp of fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a large, oven-safe skillet, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped tomatoes. Sauté until the tomatoes are soft.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the cooked tomatoes in the skillet.
  5. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese over the egg mixture.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is set and lightly golden.
  7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped chives.
  8. Slice and serve warm.

This Tomato and Bacon Frittata is a heavenly mix of garden-fresh tomatoes and crispy bacon, all enveloped in fluffy eggs. It’s a delightful dish that’s just as good for a weekend brunch as it is for a quick weekday breakfast.

Grilled Tomato and Feta Salad

This Grilled Tomato and Feta Salad is the perfect summertime dish that brings together the smoky flavor of grilled tomatoes and the creamy, tangy taste of feta cheese. It’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 8 ripe garden tomatoes, halved
  • 200g of feta cheese, crumbled
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 4 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Brush the halved tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  3. Place the tomatoes, cut side down, on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they have grill marks and are slightly softened.
  4. Arrange the grilled tomatoes on a platter and sprinkle with the crumbled feta cheese.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the tomatoes and feta.
  7. Tear the basil leaves and scatter them over the salad.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy.

This Grilled Tomato and Feta Salad is a delightful way to enjoy your garden tomatoes. The grilling process enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes, while the feta adds a touch of tangy creaminess. It’s a simple, yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any summer meal.

Tomato Jam Recipe

This Tomato Jam is a sweet and savory treat that’s a perfect use for your garden-fresh tomatoes. It’s fantastic spread on toast, served with cheese, or as a condiment for grilled meats.

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 pounds ripe garden tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 2 cups of sugar
  • 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp of fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp of cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp of ground cloves
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, combine the chopped tomatoes, sugar, lemon juice, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and a pinch of salt. 
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and let the jam simmer. Continue to stir occasionally for about 1-2 hours, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  4. Once the jam is ready, allow it to cool before transferring it to jars.
  5. The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or can be canned for longer storage.

This Tomato Jam is a surprising and delectable way to savor your garden tomatoes. Its sweet and savory flavor profile makes it a versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. Enjoy it as part of your breakfast, as a delightful appetizer with cheese, or as an exciting addition to your BBQ spread.

Gazpacho

garden tomato recipe

Experience the refreshing taste of summer with this traditional Spanish Gazpacho. Made with ripe garden tomatoes, this chilled soup is a deliciously refreshing way to beat the heat and savor the flavors of your garden.

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 pounds ripe garden tomatoes, cored and rough chopped
  • 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp of fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, garlic, and onion.
  2. Pulse until the vegetables are finely chopped but not completely pureed.
  3. Add the parsley, basil, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Blend until everything is well combined, but still has some texture.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  6. Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
  7. Serve cold with a drizzle of olive oil on top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

This Gazpacho is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s full of fresh, garden-fresh flavors. It’s the perfect solution for those hot summer days when you’re looking for something light, yet satisfying. Enjoy it as a starter for your meals or as a light lunch on its own.

Garden Fresh Tomato Ketchup

Homemade ketchup is a great way to utilize your garden tomatoes. This ketchup, bursting with fresh tomato flavor, is free of the high fructose corn syrup found in most store-bought versions. 

Ingredients:

  • 10 pounds of ripe garden tomatoes, roughly chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 1 tsp of salt
  • 1 tsp of black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp of allspice
  • 1/2 tsp of ground cloves

Instructions:

  1. Combine the tomatoes, onion, and garlic in a large pot over medium heat. Cook until the tomatoes are softened and start to break down.
  2. Pass the mixture through a food mill or strainer to remove the seeds and skins. Return the strained mixture to the pot.
  3. Add the vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, allspice, and cloves to the pot. Mix well.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook uncovered for about 2-3 hours, or until the ketchup is thickened and darkened in color, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking or burning.
  5. Allow the ketchup to cool, then transfer it to jars. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a month, or can it for longer shelf life.

This Garden Fresh Tomato Ketchup delivers a robust and tangy taste that’s a wonderful addition to your burgers, fries, and more. It’s a delightful way to savor your garden tomatoes and bring a bit of homemade goodness to your table.

Happy Gardening!

Garden tomatoes are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in countless recipes. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing salad, comforting soup, or savory tart, there’s a recipe out there that showcases the flavorful and juicy tomatoes from your garden. We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of 15 delicious recipes that use fresh garden tomatoes and other garden produce. 

Please be sure to check out my Gardening Blog Post Page for more tips on all types of gardening. Including Seed Saving, Seed Starting, Orchids, Water Gardening, Coldframe Gardening, Indoor Bulb Gardening, Hydroponics, Container Gardening, Mums, Herbs, African Violets, planting Bulbs, Flower Gardening, Vegetable and Fruit Gardening, Indoor Houseplants of all kinds, Cactus, Succulents, Hanging plants, Deer resistant plants and even Bird, Bee, Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens!