When most people think of tomatoes, they think of juicy red fruits ripe for the picking. But what about green tomatoes? Often overlooked and underutilized, these unripe tomatoes are actually a culinary treasure trove just waiting to be explored. With their tangy flavor and firm texture, green tomatoes can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from crispy fried delights to creamy soups.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of green tomato recipes, showcasing 18 unique and delicious ideas that will have you looking at these underappreciated fruits in a whole new light. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone.
Fried Green Tomatoes with Spicy Remoulade
Get ready to experience the perfect blend of crispy and creamy in this classic Southern dish. This recipe combines the tender sweetness of green tomatoes with the spicy kick of remoulade.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Remoulade (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each tomato slice into the flour mixture, then buttermilk, and finally coat with flour again.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Remoulade:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve with fried green tomatoes and enjoy!
Green Tomato Chutney with Ginger and Raisins
This tangy and flavorful chutney is a perfect condiment for Indian meals, adding a burst of sweet and spicy flavors to your dishes. With the added warmth of ginger and the natural sweetness of raisins, this chutney is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add grated ginger, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped green tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chutney has thickened.
5. Stir in golden raisins and remove from heat.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Green Tomato Salsa Verde with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your tacos and grilled meats with this vibrant, herby salsa verde. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green tomatoes with the bright flavors of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh green tomatoes (about 4-5 medium-sized)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine green tomatoes, parsley, basil, garlic, and salt. Blend until coarsely chopped.
2. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the blended mixture and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the salsa has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice. Season with pepper to taste.
4. Let the salsa cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Tomato Pie with Cheddar Crust
This sweet and savory pie is perfect for using up green tomatoes from your garden or CSA box. The tangy flavor of the cheddar crust pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet green tomato filling.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
– 3-4 green tomatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into small pieces. Stir in grated cheddar cheese.
3. Press dough into a 9-inch pie dish, forming an even layer.
4. In a separate bowl, combine sliced green tomatoes, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir until combined.
5. Arrange tomato mixture on top of crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Tomato Gazpacho with Cucumber and Lime
As the weather heats up, this vibrant and revitalizing soup is just what you need to beat the summer blues. This Green Tomato Gazpacho with Cucumber and Lime combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the cooling properties of cucumber and a squeeze of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, diced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the green tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic until smooth.
2. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and add the broth and lime juice. Stir well.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This gazpacho is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Enjoy your refreshing and revitalizing Green Tomato Gazpacho!
Green Tomato Relish with Mustard Seeds
A tangy and flavorful condiment perfect for topping grilled meats, cheeses, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup mustard seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced green tomatoes, mustard seeds, cilantro, and garlic. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the mixture is slightly thickened.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Tomato and Bacon Jam
This sweet and savory jam is perfect for topping toast, using as a spread, or serving alongside grilled meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the green tomatoes, cooked bacon, onion, and garlic.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is soft and the flavors have melded together (about 20 minutes).
3. Add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Tomato Curry with Coconut Milk
This vibrant curry is a flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional tomato curries, featuring the tangy sweetness of green tomatoes and the richness of coconut milk. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes (unripe), diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the mixture is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add green tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Pickles with Dill and Garlic
This recipe is a perfect way to preserve green tomatoes during the off-season, while adding a burst of flavor with fresh dill and garlic. The tangy pickles make a great addition to sandwiches, salads, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups sliced green tomatoes
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp pickling spice
– 2 tsp dried dill weed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced green tomatoes, white vinegar, water, sugar, pickling spice, dried dill weed, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. After 24 hours, transfer the pickle mixture to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Store the pickles in the refrigerator. Allow them to chill before serving.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (plus chilling time)
Green Tomato Tarte Tatin with Goat Cheese
Tarte Tatin, the classic French dessert, gets a seasonal makeover with green tomatoes and tangy goat cheese. This sweet and savory tart is perfect for a fall evening or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize the green tomato slices over medium heat with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Place the caramelized tomatoes on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese and drizzle with honey.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Tomato and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer, even when green tomatoes are out of season. Made with fresh corn, onions, and a hint of cayenne pepper, they’re perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced green tomatoes, corn kernels, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add buttermilk and stir until mixture is smooth.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Drop tablespoonfuls of the tomato-corn mixture into the oil, about 5-6 fritters at a time.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to fry all the fritters in batches.
Green Tomato Caprese Salad with Basil
As the seasons transition from summer to fall, green tomatoes come into their own, providing a tangy twist on the classic caprese salad. This refreshing recipe combines the sweetness of fresh basil with the tartness of green tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the green tomato slices on a large platter or individual plates.
2. Top each green tomato slice with a halved cherry tomato, a mozzarella cheese slice, and a sprinkle of basil leaves.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad in a zigzag pattern.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 10 minutes.
Green Tomato Shakshuka with Poached Eggs
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the richness of poached eggs, all wrapped up in a spicy shakshuka sauce. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced green tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes start to soften.
3. Create 4 wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
4. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Tomato and Shrimp Ceviche
This refreshing ceviche combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the savory flavor of succulent shrimp, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 green tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, green tomatoes, and lime juice.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the shrimp.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro and jalapeño pepper (if using).
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is ready when you are.
Green Tomato Bread with Walnuts
This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for using up ripe green tomatoes from your garden or farmer’s market. The addition of walnuts adds a delightful crunch and depth to the loaf.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 ripe green tomatoes, diced (about 1 cup)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in eggs, then stir in diced green tomatoes and chopped walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Green Tomato Soup with Crispy Prosciutto
This creamy soup is a delightful way to enjoy the unripe tomatoes that linger on your garden’s branches. As the weather cools, these green gems transform into a flavorful base for a comforting and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Prosciutto, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add green tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
3. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Just before serving, top each bowl with crispy prosciutto and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Tomato and Avocado Tartine
A fresh and flavorful twist on the classic tartine, this recipe combines the sweetness of ripe avocado with the tanginess of green tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 4-6 green tomatoes (such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the tomato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
5. Meanwhile, toast 2 slices of bread (such as baguette or ciabatta).
6. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each toasted slice.
7. Once the tomatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
8. Arrange 2-3 roasted tomato slices on top of the avocado spread.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Green Tomato Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of cinnamon streusel with the tanginess of green tomatoes, perfect for a breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup green tomato, diced
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Cinnamon streusel topping (see below)
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and milk; stir until just combined.
4. Fold in diced green tomatoes.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Top each muffin with cinnamon streusel topping (see below).
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the tangy delights of green tomatoes! This collection of 18 recipes showcases the versatility and flavor of these underutilized gems. From crispy fried green tomatoes with spicy remoulade to sweet and sour pickles, and from savory curries to refreshing soups, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover creative twists on classic dishes like green tomato pie and tarte Tatin, or try new favorites like green tomato gazpacho and ceviche. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
