Summer is finally here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to indulge in the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh heirloom tomatoes. These colorful gems are a staple of many summer gardens, and their unique flavor profiles make them a chef’s dream come true. From classic caprese salads to innovative tartes and soups, there’s no denying that heirloom tomatoes are a culinary treasure.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of these summer superstars. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a show-stopping main course, we’ve got you covered with our collection of heirloom tomato recipes. So go ahead, fire up your grill, grab those fresh tomatoes, and get ready to taste the sweetest days of the year.
Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad
A simple yet elegant summer salad that highlights the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes and the creaminess of burrata cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 ball of burrata cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces and place them among the tomatoes.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This salad is best served fresh.
Roasted Heirloom Tomato Soup
Roasted Heirloom Tomato Soup Recipe
Savor the warm flavors of summer with this creamy roasted heirloom tomato soup. A perfect blend of sweet and savory, it’s a comforting treat for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs heirloom tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the tomato halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of olive oil until softened.
5. Add roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Purée the mixture with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
7. Season with dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Grilled Heirloom Tomatoes with Basil Oil
This recipe highlights the sweet and tangy flavors of heirloom tomatoes, elevated by a drizzle of fragrant basil oil. Perfect for a summer evening or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced 1/2 inch thick
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, basil leaves, and garlic. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Brush both sides of tomato slices with the basil oil mixture.
4. Grill tomatoes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop nice grill marks and a tender texture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Tart with Goat Cheese
This sweet and savory tart showcases the best of summer’s bounty, featuring vibrant heirloom tomatoes and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch tart crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the tart crust and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Arrange tomato slices in a concentric circle pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Crumble goat cheese over the tomatoes, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the goat cheese is slightly caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes and Balsamic Glaze
Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes and Balsamic Glaze
A classic Italian salad gets a boost of flavor and color with the use of heirloom tomatoes and balsamic glaze. This simple yet impressive side dish is perfect for summer gatherings.
- Ingredients:
- 4-6 slices heirloom tomato, thickly sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar thinned with 1 tsp honey)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
- Instructions:
- Arrange the tomato slices on a platter or individual plates.
- Slice the mozzarella cheese and place it on top of the tomatoes.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, then drizzle with balsamic glaze (or vinegar mixture).
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
- Cooking Time: None
Pan-Seared Heirloom Tomatoes with Garlic and Herbs
A flavorful and elegant side dish that showcases the beauty of heirloom tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. In the pan, add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Arrange the tomato slices in the pan, leaving some space between each slice.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until the tomatoes start to release their juices and develop a slight sear.
6. Flip the tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho
Cool down with a refreshing summer soup that highlights the sweet flavors of heirloom tomatoes. This gazpacho recipe is perfect for a light and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, then transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
3. Stir in olive oil, vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (chilled soup)
Stuffed Heirloom Tomatoes with Quinoa and Feta
This recipe is a perfect blend of textures, flavors, and freshness, making it an ideal side dish or light lunch for warm weather. The quinoa and feta add a delightful savory element to the sweet tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large heirloom tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and scoop out some of the insides to create a small cavity.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and minced garlic.
4. Stuff each tomato with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this simple yet elegant bruschetta recipe, featuring juicy heirloom tomatoes and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the baguette slices.
4. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. Top each bread slice with diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Roasted Heirloom Tomatoes with Thyme
A perfect summer side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of heirloom tomatoes, enhanced by the subtle warmth of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Place the tomato halves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes, then sprinkle the thyme leaves evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until the tomatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Heirloom Tomato and Avocado Salsa
A fresh and flavorful twist on traditional salsa, this recipe combines the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes with the creaminess of ripe avocados. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, avocado, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Pasta with Heirloom Tomatoes and Fresh Basil
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this vibrant pasta dish, featuring heirloom tomatoes at their peak ripeness and fragrant fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 lbs. heirloom tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add halved tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with garlic and oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tomatoes release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-basil mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Heirloom Tomato and Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect showcase for the flavors of the season, highlighting the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes and the crunch of fresh cucumbers.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 heirloom tomatoes (any color), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 2 medium-sized cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tomato slices.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on top of the tomatoes in a single layer.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the white wine vinegar.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (no cooking)
Pickled Heirloom Tomatoes
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these tangy and sweet pickled heirloom tomatoes. Perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced tomatoes and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the tomatoes to release their excess moisture.
2. Rinse the tomatoes with cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Pack the tomato slices into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the pickling liquid over the tomatoes, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.
6. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering the pickling liquid)
Heirloom Tomato and Peach Salad
Celebrate the sweetness of summer with this fresh and flavorful salad, showcasing the best of heirloom tomatoes and juicy peaches.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into wedges
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tomato slices and peach dice.
2. Sprinkle the chopped basil over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, gently tossing to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Confit
A sweet and savory condiment perfect for topping toast, grilled meats, or vegetables. This recipe showcases the rich flavors of heirloom tomatoes slowly cooked with aromatics and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the tomato halves, olive oil, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
5. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture is jam-like.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Grilled Cheese with Heirloom Tomatoes and Pesto
A twist on the classic grilled cheese, this recipe adds sweet and tangy heirloom tomatoes and a rich pesto spread for an elevated sandwich experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (e.g. baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of pesto
– 2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/8-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of tomato, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a dollop of pesto.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
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
Heirloom Tomato and Corn Salad
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this refreshing Heirloom Tomato and Corn Salad. Fresh corn and heirloom tomatoes come together in a harmonious dance, complemented by creamy goat cheese and a hint of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and corn kernels.
2. Crumble the goat cheese over the top of the salad and sprinkle with chopped basil.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, but it can be prepared up to 30 minutes in advance.
Heirloom Tomato and Mozzarella Flatbread
Experience the simplicity of Italy with this flavorful flatbread, featuring fresh heirloom tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2-3 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Garlic powder, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese, heirloom tomato slices, and sprinkle with garlic powder.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Jam
Heirloom Tomato Jam Recipe
Summary: This sweet and tangy jam is the perfect way to preserve the flavors of heirloom tomatoes, ideal for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups heirloom tomato, diced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes, sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the water and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Savor the flavor of summer with these 20 mouthwatering heirloom tomato recipes. From refreshing salads to savory soups and satisfying main courses, there’s something for every taste bud. Enjoy the sweetness of Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad or get creative with Roasted Heirloom Tomato Soup. Grilled Heirloom Tomatoes with Basil Oil add a burst of flavor to any meal, while Heirloom Tomato Tart with Goat Cheese makes for a delightful dessert. With so many options, you’ll never tire of the taste of summer.
