Different Ways to Cook with Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a kitchen staple, adding a touch of sunshine to so many dishes. But if you're only using them in basic salads or simple sauces, you're missing out! This guide is here to help you get creative and discover easy tomato recipes that go far beyond the usual.
We'll take you through different methods of cooking with tomatoes, showing you how simple changes can bring out exciting new tastes. From rich stews to smoky grilled delights, we'll cover how to roast, grill, stew, and even sun-dry them, along with plenty of recipe ideas to inspire your next meal.
There's something truly magical that happens when you roast a tomato. That natural sweetness deepens, transforming into a rich, almost caramelised flavour that’s simply irresistible. It’s an easy way to get the most out of your tomatoes, making them perfect for all sorts of delicious dishes.
Once roasted, these flavour-packed gems are incredibly versatile. Stir them into warming soups, toss them through a simple pasta dish for a burst of rich taste, or enjoy them simply on toast drizzled with a little olive oil and your favourite herbs.
How to Roast Tomatoes:
- Preheat your oven to a medium heat.
- Halve your tomatoes (cherry tomatoes can be left whole) and toss them with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a grind of black pepper. Add some fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary if you like.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking tray.
- Roast for 25-40 minutes, depending on size, until they’re soft, slightly shrivelled, and beautifully caramelised at the edges.
Roast Tomato Recipes:
There’s something about tomatoes perfectly cooked under the grill in your oven or over the heat of a BBQ that brings out a wonderful smoky, charred flavour adding an extra layer to any dish. They're fantastic for levelling up your favourite dishes and summer salads or simply as a vibrant, easy side for any barbecue spread.
But don't stop at the side dishes! These smoky beauties can elevate all sorts of meals. Toss them into a fresh pasta salad, pile them onto toasted bruschetta with a scattering of basil, or serve them on a slice of cheese on toast for a comforting bite with a twist. They're also brilliant when chopped and added to a green salad, bringing a delicious depth of flavour.
How to Grill Tomatoes:
- Preheat your grill or BBQ to medium-high heat.
- Cut larger tomatoes into thick slices or halve smaller ones.
- Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place directly on the grill grates and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until tender with lovely char marks.
- Alternatively, if you're cooking with the oven, you can top your favourite dishes with tomato halves or slices and pop them under the grill for 5 minutes to finish.
Grilled Tomato Recipes:
When you want to add serious richness and depth to your cooking, stewing tomatoes is the way to go. This gentle simmering method transforms fresh tomatoes into a wonderfully concentrated and flavourful base, perfect for those comforting, slow-cooked meals. It’s where tomatoes truly come into their own, making them ideal for hearty dishes like a warming lamb curry or a chunky vegetable stew.
How to Stew Tomatoes:
- Roughly chop your tomatoes.
- In a large pot, gently cook diced onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, a little water or vegetable stock, and your chosen seasonings.
- Simmer gently, covered, for at least 20-30 minutes (or longer for a deeper flavour) until the tomatoes have completely softened and the sauce is rich.
Stewed Tomato Recipes:
Looking to add a concentrated burst of Mediterranean flavour to your cooking? Sun-dried tomatoes are your secret weapon. Their intense, sweet-savoury taste and chewy texture make them perfect for livening up simple pasta dishes or adding depth to any Mediterranean-inspired meal. They truly enhance the overall experience of a dish, like in our hearty one-pan roasted chicken with sun-dried tomato stuffing and butterbean casserole, a surprisingly simple sun-dried tomato recipe for your repertoire.
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Slice ripe tomatoes (plum tomatoes work best) about 1/4 inch thick.
- Arrange slices on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt, you can also add chopped garlic and some herbs if you like.
- Oven Method: Bake in the oven on a very low heat (around 80-100°C) for 6-12 hours, or until dried but still flexible.
Dehydrator Method: Follow your dehydrator's instructions for tomatoes, typically at 57°C / 135°F for 8-12 hours.
Once dried, store them in an airtight container, or preserve them in olive oil in a jar in the fridge.
Sun-Dried Tomatoe Recipes:
Make The Most Of Your Tomatoes
So there you have it! A whole host of new ways to get the most out of those juicy tomatoes hiding away in your fridge. We've explored how simple techniques like roasting, grilling, stewing, and even sun-drying can transform this everyday ingredient into something truly special and packed with flavour.
Ready to put your new tomato knowledge to good use? Dive into our full collection of tomato recipes, where you'll find dozens more delicious ideas to inspire your next meal.
View Full Tomato Recipe Collection
Grab all your ingredients in-store or online and get cooking! Don't forget to share your masterpieces with us on social media using the #MakeitwithMorrisons – we love to see what you've whipped up.
