6 Italian-inspired cherry tomato creations you must try
What's the story
Cherry tomatoes are nature's tiny gems, brimming with flavor and versatility. Despite their diminutive size, these little fruits have a big impact on the kitchen. From salads to sauces, their sweet juiciness adds a burst of freshness to any dish. Let us explore six simple yet creative ways to harness the full potential of cherry tomatoes, making your culinary adventures enjoyable.
Roast
Toppings
Simply toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until they're blistered and caramelized. The heat intensifies their natural sweetness, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. Roasted cherry tomatoes are perfect for topping pasta, salads, and pizzas, or even enjoying them on their own as a savory snack.
One tray dish
Summer tray bake
Making a one-tray dish is easy! Combine sweet cherry tomatoes with other fresh veggies for delicious summer traybakes. Take stuffed peppers, for example. Fill them with cherry tomatoes and add melted mozzarella for a tasty twist. It is a simple way to enjoy the flavors of summer in one dish. It is like a flavor explosion inspired by the Mediterranean.
Stuff
Stuffed cherry tomato
Simply slice the tops off the cherry tomatoes and scoop out the seeds and pulp to create a hollow cavity. Fill the tomatoes with a mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices, then garnish them with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or a drizzle of olive oil. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, or as a savory snack any time of day.
Skewer
Vegetable mix
Thread cherry tomatoes and bite-sized pieces of fresh mozzarella onto wooden skewers, alternating between the two. You can also add cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, baby corn, and potatoes. Drizzle the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle them with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. These skewers are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious.
Toast and roll
Bruschetta
For a delightful cherry tomato bruschetta, finely chop the tomatoes and mix with minced garlic, fresh basil, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Try incorporating diced red onions or shallots for a subtle onion flavor and extra crunch. Spoon this flavorful mixture onto toasted bread slices for a classic bruschetta or spread it on a tortilla and roll it up for a tasty wrap.
Sauces and purees
Overripe cherry tomatoes
If your cherry tomatoes are a bit squishy or too ripe for eating raw, don't worry! They're perfect for cooking. You can use them to make tasty tomato sauce or even homemade ketchup. Their juicy sweetness adds lots of flavor to these dishes, and their soft texture makes them easy to cook with. So, instead of tossing them out, turn them into puree.