Cherry Tomato Recipe

Guest Authors, Recipes

Guest Author Mary Reedy 

Step right up, folks! We’re about to embark on a wild ride with the little wonders we call cherry and small tomatoes. These tiny fellas might not look like much, but they’re exploding with flavor, color, and good-for-you nutrients. Buckle up as we whip up four scrumptious recipes that make these little red rascals the star of the show, complete with perfect pairings for your main dishes.

1. Roasted Cherry Tomato and Garlic Pasta

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of cherry tomatoes
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 lb of your favorite pasta
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cherry tomatoes and minced garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until tomatoes are soft and bursting.
  2. While tomatoes are roasting, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about a cup of pasta water.
  3. Combine pasta, roasted tomatoes, and a little pasta water. Toss well, adding more water if needed.
  4. Serve topped with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.

Serving suggestion: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or seared fish.

2. Fresh Tomato Salsa

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of small tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, seeds and veins removed, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl. Mix well and let it sit for a few minutes for flavors to meld.
  2. Adjust salt and lime juice as per your preference.

Serving suggestion: This salsa is a versatile accompaniment and goes well with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a dip for tortilla chips.

3. Tomato and Mozzarella Skewers

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup small mozzarella balls
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Skewers

Instructions

  1. Alternately thread tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

Serving suggestion: These skewers make a great appetizer or side dish for any grilled main course.

4. Cherry Tomato and Spinach Saute

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. Add tomatoes and cook until they begin to burst.
  3. Add spinach and cook until just wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

Serving suggestion: This sauté is perfect as a side for grilled steaks or roasted chicken.

Health Benefits of Tomatoes Tomatoes, especially cherry and small tomatoes, are packed with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, potassium, and folate. They are also rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer. Tomatoes are also hydrating as they contain about 95% water content, making them a refreshing and nutritious ingredient in many dishes.

Don’t forget to experiment with various tomato types based on your preference and the dish you’re preparing. Enjoy the process of incorporating these little red gems into your meals – happy cooking!