5 Amazing Recipes to Use Fresh Tomatoes: Jam, Pie, Sandwich & More

Fresh tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes with their vibrant flavor and juicy texture. Whether you’re looking to make a savory jam, a delicious pie, a hearty sandwich, or roasted tomatoes, this collection of recipes will help you make the most of your tomato bounty. Each recipe highlights a different way to enjoy fresh tomatoes, from the tangy sweetness of Tomato-Bacon Jam to the comforting goodness of a Tomato Pie. Perfect for home cooks and tomato enthusiasts alike, these recipes offer something for every taste and occasion. Let’s explore how to transform fresh tomatoes into delightful culinary creations!

Ingredients for Tomato-Bacon Jam

• 6 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 pound bacon, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Tomato-Bacon Jam

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and the fat has rendered.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and balsamic vinegar.
2. Add the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and dried thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture has thickened.

Step 4: Blend and Finalize

1. Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture to a smooth consistency. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pan.
2. Stir in the cooked bacon and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the jam cool before transferring it to sterilized jars for storage. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or canned for longer storage.

Ingredients for Tomato Pie

• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

How to Make Tomato Pie

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, trimming any excess dough. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped basil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Arrange the tomato slices in a single layer on paper towels to drain excess moisture. This step helps prevent a soggy crust.
3. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the pre-baked pie crust.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Arrange the tomato slices over the cheese mixture in an overlapping pattern.
2. Spread the remaining cheese mixture over the tomatoes.
3. Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
4. Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Ingredients for Tomato-Basil Sandwich

• 2 slices of sourdough bread
• 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon pesto
• 4 fresh basil leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make Tomato-Basil Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Toast the slices of sourdough bread to your desired level of crispness.
2. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Spread the pesto on the mayonnaise-covered side of one slice of bread.
2. Arrange the tomato slices evenly over the pesto.
3. Season the tomatoes with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Top with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Place the other slice of bread on top, mayonnaise side down, to complete the sandwich. Slice in half and serve.

Ingredients for Roasted Tomatoes

• 6 medium ripe tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

How to Make Roasted Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Tomatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the tomato halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.

Step 2: Season and Roast

1. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomato halves.
2. Sprinkle with dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and caramelized.
4. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.

About the Main Ingredients

Tomatoes: Tomatoes are the star of each recipe, providing a burst of flavor and juiciness. They are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C and vitamin A, and are known for their antioxidant properties. Tomatoes come in various varieties, including beefsteak, cherry, and heirloom, each offering unique flavors and textures.

Bacon: Bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor to dishes. It contributes a rich umami taste and a crispy texture, making it a popular ingredient in both savory and sweet recipes.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a robust, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of tomatoes in the pie. It melts well, creating a creamy texture.

Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These ingredients contribute to the creamy, tangy filling of the tomato pie. They help bind the ingredients together and add a rich, smooth texture.

Basil and Garlic: Fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbal note to dishes, while garlic provides a pungent, savory flavor. Both ingredients enhance the overall taste of tomato-based recipes.

Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for roasting tomatoes, adding a smooth richness and helping to caramelize the tomatoes for a deeper flavor.

Fresh tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of delicious ways. From a savory Tomato-Bacon Jam to a comforting Tomato Pie, a refreshing Tomato-Basil Sandwich, and sweet Roasted Tomatoes, these recipes showcase the best of what fresh tomatoes have to offer. Each dish highlights the unique flavors and textures of tomatoes, making them a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and savoring the delightful results!