Cherry tomatoes are small but mighty vegetables that pack a flavorful punch. These tiny tomatoes are perfect for adding color, taste, and nutrition to many dishes.

Whether you grow them in your garden or buy them from the store, cherry tomatoes are easy to use in cooking.

You can find over 31 tasty ways to use cherry tomatoes in your meals. From simple salads to hearty pasta dishes, there are many options to try.

Cherry tomatoes work well in both raw and cooked recipes. You’ll discover new ideas to make the most of these little red gems in your kitchen.

1. Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes is a tasty twist on the classic Italian dish. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how fresh it tastes.

To make this salad, you’ll need cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. Cut the tomatoes in half and mix them with the cheese.

Add torn basil leaves for a burst of flavor. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.

This salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a quick side dish. The small size of cherry tomatoes makes it easy to eat and share.

2. Roasted Cherry Tomato Bruschetta

Roasted cherry tomato bruschetta offers a delicious twist on the classic Italian appetizer.

You can create this tasty dish by roasting cherry tomatoes until they become jammy and caramelized.

Start by tossing the tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Roast them in the oven until they burst and release their juices.

While the tomatoes cook, toast slices of crusty baguette.

For an authentic touch, rub the warm bread with a peeled garlic clove. This infuses the bread with a subtle garlic flavor.

Top each slice with the roasted tomato mixture and fresh basil leaves.

This appetizer is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal. The roasted tomatoes add depth and sweetness to the bruschetta.

You can customize it with your favorite herbs or a sprinkle of cheese.

3. Cherry Tomato Pasta

Cherry tomato pasta is a quick and tasty meal you can make in about 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without much fuss.

To make it, cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions.

While it’s cooking, sauté garlic in olive oil in a large skillet. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to burst.

Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture. You can add some pasta water to create a light sauce.

For extra flavor, sprinkle on some grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

This versatile dish works well with many pasta shapes. Try it with spaghetti, penne, or bow ties.

You can also add other ingredients like spinach or cooked chicken to make it even more filling.

4. Cherry Tomato Tart

Cherry tomato tarts are a tasty way to showcase these little gems. You can make a simple tart using puff pastry as the base. Just lay it in a tart pan and crimp the edges.

Mix cream cheese with herbs and spread it on the pastry. Then pile on lots of cherry tomatoes. Don’t be shy – more is better here.

Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before baking. Pop it in a hot oven until the crust turns golden and flaky. The tomatoes will get soft and juicy.

This tart works great as a light lunch or appetizer. The combination of buttery pastry, creamy cheese, and sweet tomatoes is hard to beat.

5. Cherry Tomato Basil Chicken

Cherry tomato basil chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with sweet tomatoes and fragrant basil. You can make it in about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

To prepare, sauté chicken breasts in a skillet until golden brown. Then add cherry tomatoes and let them burst, creating a flavorful sauce.

Stir in fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma. The tomatoes and basil complement the chicken beautifully.

Serve this dish over pasta like rigatoni or fettuccine for a complete meal. You can also add garlic and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

6. Cherry Tomato Gazpacho

Cherry tomato gazpacho is a refreshing cold soup perfect for hot summer days. You can make it easily with ripe cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a few other simple ingredients.

To prepare, blend cherry tomatoes with peeled cucumber, garlic, and jalapeño for some heat. Add a splash of olive oil and vinegar for flavor.

Chill the soup before serving for the best taste.

For extra texture, you can add some diced cucumber or tomatoes after blending.

This gazpacho is versatile – make it spicier by leaving the jalapeño seeds in, or keep it mild for kids.

Serve your cherry tomato gazpacho cold in bowls or small glasses as an appetizer. It’s a tasty way to use up extra cherry tomatoes from your garden.

7. Cherry Tomato Frittata

Cherry tomato frittata is a tasty and easy dish you can make for breakfast or brunch. It combines eggs, cheese, and fresh cherry tomatoes for a flavorful meal.

To make this frittata, start by whisking eggs with cheese, basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet and lightly sauté the cherry tomatoes.

Pour the egg mixture over the tomatoes in the skillet. Cook on the stovetop for a few minutes until the edges set.

Then, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven to finish cooking.

The result is a fluffy, golden frittata studded with juicy cherry tomatoes. It’s perfect for serving a group or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

8. Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Skewers

Cherry tomato and mozzarella skewers are a tasty and easy appetizer. You’ll need cherry tomatoes, small mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and bamboo skewers.

Thread a cherry tomato, a folded basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is full.

For extra flavor, drizzle the skewers with olive oil seasoned with garlic and red pepper flakes. You can also add a balsamic glaze for a tangy touch.

These colorful skewers look great on a serving platter. They’re perfect for parties or as a quick snack.

9. Cherry Tomato and Avocado Toast

Cherry tomato and avocado toast is a tasty and simple dish you can enjoy for breakfast or a light meal. Start with toasted whole grain bread as your base.

Mash ripe avocados and spread them on the toast. Add halved cherry tomatoes on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.

For extra zest, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.

You can enhance the flavors with a touch of balsamic vinegar or fresh basil leaves.

This recipe combines creamy avocado with the juicy crunch of cherry tomatoes for a delightful contrast of textures.

10. Cherry Tomato Salsa

Cherry tomato salsa is a quick and tasty dish you can make in minutes. It’s perfect for serving with tacos or tortilla chips.

To make it, combine chopped cherry tomatoes with diced onion, jalapeño, garlic, and cilantro. Add lime juice, a pinch of sugar, salt, pepper, and cumin for flavor.

For a smoky twist, try blistering the tomatoes under the broiler first. This gives the salsa a fire-roasted taste.

You can use a food processor to blend the ingredients if you prefer a smoother texture. Just pulse a few times to chop everything up.

Cherry tomato salsa is naturally sweet and full of fresh garden flavors. It’s an easy way to use up extra tomatoes from your garden or farmer’s market haul.

11. Cherry Tomato and Couscous Salad

This refreshing salad combines juicy cherry tomatoes with fluffy couscous for a tasty meal.

Start by cooking the couscous according to package directions and letting it cool.

Halve cherry tomatoes and add them to the couscous. Mix in some diced cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, and chickpeas for extra flavor and protein.

Dress the salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For added crunch, try topping with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.

You can serve this versatile salad chilled or at room temperature as a light lunch or side dish.

12. Cherry Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart

You’ll love this tasty tart that pairs sweet cherry tomatoes with tangy goat cheese.

Start by roasting the tomatoes with olive oil and balsamic vinegar until they burst.

Roll out puff pastry and place it on a baking tray. Score a border around the edge and prick the center with a fork.

Spread pesto over the pastry, then sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top.

Arrange the roasted tomatoes over the cheese in a single layer. Add some halved olives between the tomatoes for extra flavor.

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Bake the tart until the pastry is golden and crisp. Let it cool slightly before serving. This savory tart makes a great appetizer or light meal.

13. Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Salad

Cherry tomato and cucumber salad is a refreshing dish perfect for warm days.

To make it, slice cherry tomatoes in half and cut cucumbers into thin coins.

Mix the veggies in a bowl with some thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor. Add fresh herbs like basil or dill if you like.

For the dressing, combine olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of salt and pepper.

Pour it over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

This salad is great for picnics or as a side dish. You can make it ahead of time and chill it in the fridge before serving.

It’s a tasty way to use up extra cherry tomatoes from your garden.

14. Cherry Tomato and Spinach Quiche

Cherry tomato and spinach quiche is a tasty dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

You can make it easily with a store-bought crust or create your own.

Mix eggs, milk, and cheese to form the base. Add fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes for color and flavor. You can also include leeks or onions for extra taste.

Sprinkle in some herbs like basil for added freshness.

Pour the mixture into your prepared crust and bake until set.

This quiche is versatile. Try different cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or feta to change things up.

You can even add olives or swap in other veggies you enjoy.

15. Cherry Tomato and Herb Omelette

This tasty omelette combines juicy cherry tomatoes with fresh herbs for a quick and delicious meal.

To make it, whisk eggs with salt and pepper in a bowl.

Heat a non-stick pan and pour in half the egg mixture. Cook until set on the bottom, about 1-2 minutes.

Add chopped cherry tomatoes and herbs to one half of the omelette.

Fold the other half over the filling. Cook for another minute, then slide onto a plate.

The omelette should be golden on the outside and slightly soft in the middle.

Try different herb combinations like basil, chives, or parsley to create new flavor profiles.

This protein-packed dish works great for breakfast or a light lunch.

16. Cherry Tomato Marinara Sauce

Cherry tomato marinara sauce is a tasty twist on classic marinara. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet. Add minced garlic and cherry tomatoes. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt.

Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. This helps break down the tomatoes.

The sauce will be chunky and flavorful. It’s perfect for pasta or as a dipping sauce for bread.

You can make extra and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. This sauce is a great way to use up extra cherry tomatoes from your garden.

17. Balsamic Cherry Tomato Chutney

Balsamic cherry tomato chutney is a tasty way to use up your summer tomato harvest.

This simple recipe combines sweet cherry tomatoes with tangy balsamic vinegar.

To make it, start by cooking chopped onions and garlic in olive oil.

Add cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and spices like mustard powder or chili flakes.

Simmer the mixture until it thickens into a jam-like consistency. The result is a rich, deep-flavored condiment perfect for many uses.

Try spreading this chutney on sandwiches or serving it with cheese. It also pairs well with grilled meats and seafood.

You can make extra batches to give as gifts or enjoy year-round. Store in sealed jars in the fridge for several weeks.

18. Cherry Tomato and Pesto Flatbread

Cherry tomato and pesto flatbread is a quick and tasty meal you can make in about 15 minutes.

Start with a pre-made flatbread or pizza crust as your base.

Spread a layer of basil pesto on the flatbread. Top it with sliced fresh mozzarella and halved cherry tomatoes. For extra flavor, add some kalamata olives and pine nuts.

Bake the flatbread in a hot oven until the crust turns golden and the cheese melts. This usually takes 12-15 minutes. For a crispier crust, you can place it directly on the oven rack.

After baking, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for a tangy finish. Sprinkle on fresh basil leaves and enjoy your delicious homemade flatbread.

19. Cherry Tomato Risotto

Cherry tomato risotto is a creamy rice dish bursting with fresh tomato flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

To make it, you’ll cook Arborio rice slowly while adding broth and stirring often. This creates a rich, velvety texture.

Add halved cherry tomatoes near the end of cooking. They’ll release their juices and become soft and sweet.

For extra flavor, try roasting the tomatoes first. This concentrates their taste and adds a nice depth to the dish.

You can easily make this vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken. Add some basil or thyme for a pop of fresh herb flavor.

20. Cherry Tomato Galette

A cherry tomato galette is a tasty and attractive dish that’s perfect for using up your summer tomatoes. This rustic French-inspired tart features a buttery crust filled with colorful cherry tomatoes.

To make the crust, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, and butter in a food processor. Add vinegar and ice water to form the dough.

For the filling, mix cherry tomatoes with olive oil and Dijon mustard. Spread garlic-and-herb cheese on the dough, then add the tomato mixture. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling.

Bake until the crust is golden and the tomatoes are bubbly. The result is a delicious blend of flaky pastry, creamy cheese, and juicy tomatoes.

21. Cherry Tomato and Cheese Pizza

Cherry tomato and cheese pizza is a tasty twist on the classic pie.

Start with a thin crust and spread a layer of tomato sauce. Add mozzarella cheese and scatter halved cherry tomatoes on top.

Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the tomatoes. For extra flavor, add some minced garlic. Drizzle olive oil lightly across the pizza before baking.

Cook the pizza in a hot oven until the crust is golden and the cheese melts. The cherry tomatoes will burst and release their sweet juices. Finish with fresh basil leaves after baking for a pop of color and flavor.

22. Cherry Tomato and Lentil Soup

Cherry tomato and lentil soup is a tasty and nutritious meal. You can make it with red or puy lentils and cherry tomatoes.

Start by roasting the cherry tomatoes in the oven. This gives them a sweet, caramelized flavor. While they roast, cook the lentils in vegetable stock.

Sauté onions and garlic for extra flavor. Add the roasted tomatoes and cooked lentils to the pot. Blend everything together for a smooth soup.

Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like basil or parsley. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil on top. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.

23. Cherry Tomato and Basil Pesto

Cherry tomato and basil pesto is a fresh, summery twist on classic pasta sauce. You can make it with just a few ingredients.

Blend ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil in a food processor. Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

This sauce works great with any pasta shape. Toss it with hot noodles for a quick meal. You can also use it as a spread on sandwiches or a dip for vegetables.

For best results, use the ripest cherry tomatoes you can find. Their sweet flavor really shines in this no-cook sauce.

24. Cherry Tomato Tabbouleh

Cherry tomato tabbouleh is a fresh and tasty twist on the classic Middle Eastern salad. You’ll love this light and flavorful dish.

Start by cooking bulgur wheat according to package directions. While it cools, chop fresh parsley, mint, and cucumber.

Cut cherry tomatoes into small pieces. Mix them with the herbs, cucumber, and cooled bulgur in a large bowl.

Make a simple dressing with lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Pour it over the salad and toss well.

Let the tabbouleh sit for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely.

25. Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Stuffed cherry tomatoes make a delightful appetizer. To prepare them, cut off the tops and scoop out the insides.

Fill the tomatoes with a mixture of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and herbs. You can add cucumber and onion for extra flavor.

Choose larger cherry tomatoes for easier handling. They’ll hold more filling and be simpler to stuff.

For a cheesy twist, try combining cream cheese with parmesan. Add fresh herbs like dill for a burst of flavor.

Serve these bite-sized treats at parties or as a light snack. They’re colorful, tasty, and easy to eat.

26. Cherry Tomato and Halloumi Skewers

Cherry tomato and halloumi skewers make a tasty appetizer or side dish. You’ll need cherry tomatoes, halloumi cheese, olive oil, and herbs.

Cut the halloumi into 1-inch cubes. Thread the cheese and tomatoes onto skewers, alternating between the two.

Brush the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs like mint or rosemary. Grill them for a few minutes on each side until the cheese is golden and the tomatoes start to burst.

These skewers are perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight meals. The salty halloumi pairs well with the sweet cherry tomatoes, creating a balanced flavor.

27. Grilled Cherry Tomato Relish

Grilled cherry tomato relish adds a smoky twist to your meals. Start by tossing cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Place them in a grill basket over high heat. Grill until they’re charred and slightly soft, shaking the basket occasionally.

Once grilled, mix the tomatoes with finely chopped onions, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil or oregano. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for tang.

This relish goes great with grilled meats or fish. You can also spread it on sandwiches or use it as a topping for bruschetta.

28. Cherry Tomato and Avocado Salad

This easy salad combines sweet cherry tomatoes with creamy avocado for a refreshing dish. Cut cherry tomatoes in half and mix with diced avocado in a bowl.

Add thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor and crunch. Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

For added texture, toss in some toasted pine nuts. You can customize this versatile salad by adding cucumber slices or fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

This quick recipe works great as a side dish or light lunch. The flavors are bright and the ingredients are nutritious. You’ll love how the creamy avocado pairs with the juicy tomatoes.

29. Cherry Tomato and Thyme Chicken

Cherry Tomato and Thyme Chicken is a tasty dish you can make for dinner. You start by seasoning chicken breasts with thyme and other spices.

Heat some oil in a pan and cook the chicken until it’s brown on both sides. This takes about 4-5 minutes per side.

Next, add cherry tomatoes to the pan with the chicken. The tomatoes will burst and create a flavorful sauce as they cook.

Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes. The result is juicy chicken with a sweet and savory tomato sauce. This meal is quick to make and full of flavor.

30. Caramelized Cherry Tomato Bruschetta

Caramelized cherry tomato bruschetta offers a tasty twist on the classic appetizer. To make it, you’ll need cherry tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and place them cut-side down in a hot pan with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper over them.

Cook the tomatoes without stirring until they blacken on the cut side and their juices evaporate. This process takes about 10-15 minutes.

While the tomatoes cook, toast slices of crusty bread. Once the tomatoes are ready, spoon them onto the toasted bread.

For extra flavor, you can add some fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

31. Cherry Tomato and Arugula Salad

This simple salad combines fresh cherry tomatoes and peppery arugula for a quick, tasty dish. Start by washing and drying a few handfuls of arugula leaves.

Slice cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the arugula. For extra flavor, try using a mix of red, yellow, and orange cherry tomatoes.

Make a quick dressing with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad and toss gently.

Top your salad with shaved Parmesan cheese for a salty kick. You can also add pine nuts for some crunch.

This salad works great as a light lunch or a side dish with dinner. It takes just minutes to prepare and lets the fresh ingredients shine.

Nutritional Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes pack a lot of nutrition into their small size. They’re low in calories but high in important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support good health.

Vitamins and Minerals

Cherry tomatoes are rich in several key nutrients. A one-cup serving provides:

• Vitamin C: 20% of your daily needs
• Vitamin A: 15% of your daily needs
• Potassium: 7% of your daily needs

They also contain smaller amounts of vitamin K, vitamin E, and B vitamins.

The vitamin C helps your immune system and skin health. Vitamin A supports eye health and cell growth. Potassium is important for heart function and blood pressure control.

Cherry tomatoes have very few calories – only about 30 per cup. They’re also a good source of fiber, with 2 grams per cup. This fiber aids digestion and helps you feel full.

Antioxidant Properties

Cherry tomatoes get their red color from lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene may help lower your risk of heart disease and some cancers. It also protects your skin from sun damage.

Other antioxidants in cherry tomatoes include:

• Beta-carotene
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E

These compounds fight harmful free radicals in your body. Eating foods high in antioxidants can reduce inflammation and lower your risk of chronic diseases.

The antioxidants in cherry tomatoes work best when you eat them with a small amount of healthy fat, like olive oil.

Cooking Tips for Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are small but mighty. They pack a flavorful punch and can be used in many ways. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of these tiny fruits.

Selecting Fresh Cherry Tomatoes

Look for firm, brightly colored tomatoes. They should feel heavy for their size. Avoid any with blemishes or soft spots. Smell the tomatoes – they should have a sweet, earthy scent.

If possible, buy cherry tomatoes on the vine. These tend to be fresher and last longer. Don’t wash them until you’re ready to use them. Water can make them spoil faster.

Try different varieties. Some are sweeter, while others are more tart. Yellow and orange cherry tomatoes are often milder than red ones.

Storage and Preservation Techniques

Keep cherry tomatoes at room temperature, out of direct sunlight.

Don’t refrigerate them unless they’re very ripe. Cold temps can make them mealy and less flavorful.

Store them in a single layer in a paper bag or shallow bowl. This prevents bruising.

Use within a week for best taste and texture.

To freeze, wash and dry the tomatoes. Spread them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.

Transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to 6 months.

You can also dry cherry tomatoes. Cut them in half and put them in a low oven or food dehydrator.

Use dried tomatoes in soups, sauces, or as a snack.