As the summer heat sets in, there’s nothing quite like biting into a juicy, sweet heirloom tomato. But why settle for just eating them plain when you can elevate them to new heights with creative recipes that showcase their unique flavor and texture? From savory soups to refreshing salads, and from classic caprese to innovative tarts and pizzas, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering heirloom tomato recipes to add some excitement to your summer cooking routine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with this season’s star ingredient.
**Recipe Highlights:**
* Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad: A simple yet impressive salad that combines fresh tomatoes with creamy burrata cheese
* Roasted Heirloom Tomato Soup: A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a summer evening
* Grilled Heirloom Tomatoes with Herbs: Add some smoky flavor to your tomatoes with this easy and aromatic recipe
Stay tuned for the rest of the article…!
Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad
Savor the sweetness of summer with this simple yet elegant salad that showcases the flavors of fresh heirloom tomatoes and creamy burrata cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomato slices (assorted colors)
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the tomato slices, burrata cheese, and minced garlic.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Serve: Immediately and enjoy!
Roasted Heirloom Tomato Soup
This rich and creamy soup is the perfect way to enjoy the sweet flavors of heirloom tomatoes during their peak season. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be savoring this comforting treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs heirloom tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss tomatoes with olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Blend roasted tomatoes with salt and chicken broth (if using) to create a smooth soup base.
7. Add heavy cream or half-and-half (if using) and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Heirloom Tomatoes with Herbs
A flavorful and colorful side dish that highlights the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes, paired with fresh herbs and a hint of smokiness from the grill.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomato slices (any color)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tsp chopped fresh oregano leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, basil, and oregano.
3. Brush the tomato slices with the herb mixture on both sides.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Grill the tomatoes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they start to release their juices and develop grill marks.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Tart with Goat Cheese
This recipe celebrates the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes paired with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange tomato slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over tomatoes.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush pastry with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes
Savor the sweetness of summer with this iconic Italian salad, featuring vibrant heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, dividing them evenly among the four servings.
4. Sprinkle salt and chopped basil leaves over the salad.
5. If using garlic, drizzle it over the salad in a zigzag pattern.
6. Serve immediately, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, as the tomatoes and mozzarella will start to lose their texture if left out for too long.
Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a classic Spanish soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. This heirloom tomato gazpacho recipe puts a twist on the traditional version by incorporating fresh, flavorful tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped heirloom tomatoes
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crusty bread or croutons for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, parsley, basil, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour the blended mixture into the skillet and stir to combine with the oil.
5. Add vinegar, salt, and pepper, stirring to taste.
6. Chill gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with crusty bread or croutons if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Pan-Seared Heirloom Tomatoes with Garlic
Elevate your summer salads and sandwiches with this simple yet flavorful recipe that showcases the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes paired with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Arrange the tomato slices in the pan, leaving some space between each slice.
4. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the tomatoes.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the edges start to caramelize.
6. Flip the tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta
Savor the sweet flavors of heirloom tomatoes atop crispy baguette slices, perfect for a light and refreshing summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomato halves
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with garlic and salt.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is crispy and lightly toasted.
5. Top each bread slice with a tomato half, drizzling with any remaining olive oil.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the tomatoes.
7. Season with pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stuffed Heirloom Tomatoes with Quinoa
Experience the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes filled with savory quinoa and flavorful herbs. This recipe is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large heirloom tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, olive oil, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
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 and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Heirloom Tomato and Basil Pasta
This recipe showcases the sweet and tangy flavors of heirloom tomatoes paired with fresh basil, all wrapped up in a simple yet satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups heirloom tomato slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 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-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add heirloom tomato slices to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-basil mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Roasted Heirloom Tomatoes with Thyme
Savor the sweet flavors of summer with this simple yet elegant recipe. Roasting heirloom tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, while thyme adds a subtle hint of herbaceousness.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes (any variety), cored and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried 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 with thyme leaves.
4. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices and collapse slightly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Salsa
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this simple yet impressive salsa made from fresh heirloom tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro leaves.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Heirloom Tomato and Avocado Salad
A refreshing summer salad that highlights the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes paired with the creaminess of avocados.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss gently to coat.
4. Arrange the diced avocado on top of the tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Heirloom Tomato Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella
Experience the sweet flavor of heirloom tomatoes paired with creamy fresh mozzarella on a crispy crust, all within a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 heirloom tomato, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin strips
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Extra-virgin olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Top with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil (if using).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pickled Heirloom Tomatoes
Elevate your salads and sandwiches with the sweet and tangy flavor of pickled heirloom tomatoes. This simple recipe preserves the natural sweetness of these gorgeous tomatoes, making them a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Fresh herbs like parsley or dill (optional)
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. Drain the tomato slices and rinse them with cold water to remove excess salt.
3. In a clean glass jar, layer the tomato slices, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space at the top.
4. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
5. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: None required
Heirloom Tomato and Corn Salad
Summer’s sweetest flavors come together in this refreshing salad, featuring juicy heirloom tomatoes and crispy corn.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and corn kernels.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar evenly over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep only)
Enjoy your delicious Heirloom Tomato and Corn Salad!
Heirloom Tomato Ratatouille
Savor the flavors of Provence with this rustic and delicious ratatouille, showcasing the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup eggplant, sliced
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced eggplant and zucchini, cooking until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced heirloom tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook, uncovered, over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Enjoy as a side dish or use as a topping for grilled meats, vegetables, or bread.
Heirloom Tomato and Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad celebrates the sweet flavors of heirloom tomatoes and cucumbers, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tomato and cucumber slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and cucumbers, tossing gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Balsamic-Glazed Heirloom Tomatoes
Elevate the flavor of your heirloom tomatoes with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick summer dinner or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and honey until smooth.
3. Arrange tomato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the balsamic glaze evenly over both sides of the tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Heirloom Tomato and Peach Salad
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this colorful salad featuring juicy heirloom tomatoes, sweet peaches, and a hint of tanginess. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into wedges
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced tomatoes and diced peaches.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the tomato-peach mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served immediately, but it can be prepared up to 30 minutes ahead of time.
Summary
20 Flavorful Heirloom Tomato Recipes for Summer
The peak of summer is here, and so are the luscious heirloom tomatoes! Celebrate their sweetness with these 20 mouthwatering recipes. From classic Caprese salad to innovative dishes like Pan-Seared Heirloom Tomatoes with Garlic, you’ll find inspiration in this collection. Enjoy roasted soups, fresh bruschettas, creamy pasta dishes, and more. Get creative with heirlooms in salads, sandwiches, and even desserts! This article is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their summer cooking game.
