Tomatoes

Solanum lycopersicum Fruit, Vegetable

Tomatoes Fruit, Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Fruit, Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

"Celebrating the versatility of tomatoes, from garden to gourmet, in every culinary creation."

Definition

A widely cultivated fruit, botanically a berry, often used as a vegetable ingredient in cooking for its sweet, acidic, and umami flavors.

Botanical Classification Botanically a fruit, specifically a berry, though culinarily treated as a vegetable.
Lycopene Content Cooked tomatoes have higher bioavailability of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
Ripening Enhancement Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature to preserve flavor and texture.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Tomatoes are:

Sweet Acidic Umami Juicy

Chef’s Secret

To remove tomato skins easily, score an 'X' on the bottom, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately plunge into ice water.

Best Substitutes

Roasted Red Peppers

for flavor depth in sauces
Ratio 1:1

Canned Tomatoes

for cooked dishes when fresh aren't available
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for firm, heavy tomatoes with smooth, unblemished skin and a rich color. Smell for a fragrant, earthy aroma.

Recipes Using Tomatoes

Cuisine Low Cholesterol Course Main Ingredient

10 Minute Tomato Sauce From America's Test Kitchen

Craving fresh-tasting pasta sauce in just 10 minutes? This recipe from America's Test Kitchen delivers! We unlock the secret to unbelievably vibrant flavor using high-quality canned crushed tomatoes (Muir Glen or Tuttorosso recommended for their low-heat processing), and clever techniques like grating the onions for faster caramelization. Butter, not olive oil, is key for keeping the onions sweet. This isn't your average canned tomato sauce; it's a revelation! Follow our chefs' carefully developed steps for a truly exceptional result.

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Soups Stews Low In Something Easy Time To Make

2Bleu's Beef Barley Soup Or Chicken Barley Soup

Warm your soul with this hearty and healthy Beef (or Chicken!) Barley Soup! Barley's nutty flavor and chewy texture combine perfectly with tender beef (or chicken) in a rich and flavorful broth. Packed with fiber and bursting with warmth, this comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings. Easily adaptable – swap beef for chicken with just two simple ingredient changes (see recipe notes)! Can't find barley? High-quality pearl barley is available at [www.Nutsonline.com](www.Nutsonline.com). For a vegetarian twist, check out our amazing vegetarian barley soup recipe #390750!

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Mexican Dips Cuisine Number Of Servings

5 Layer Mexican Dip Or Nachos Supreme

This spectacular layered dip is perfect for parties or a casual weeknight meal! Easily assembled in minutes, this recipe can be made ahead of time and served hot or cold. Enjoy it with warm tortilla chips (tortilla scoops are amazing!), alongside a crisp beer or margarita. Elevate it to a Nachos Supreme by adding grilled carne asada or pollo asada – the possibilities are endless! This recipe uses a flavorful seasoning blend (see recipe #117797 for details).

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Preparation Occasion Dips Mexican

7 Layer Bean Dip

Score a touchdown with this incredible 7-Layer Bean Dip! Perfect for Super Bowl parties, game day gatherings, or any celebration, this easy-to-make dip is bursting with flavor. Even better if you chill it overnight to let the flavors meld! Use store-bought guacamole if avocados aren't cooperating.

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Preparation Preparation Dips 60 Minutes Or Less

7 Layer Dip

This crowd-pleasing 7-Layer Dip is the ultimate game-day snack or party appetizer! Layers of creamy sour cream, zesty salsa, savory beans, and fresh toppings disappear in minutes. Easy to make ahead, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

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For 1 Or 2 For 1 Or 2 Lunch Sandwiches

A Grilled Roasted Turkey Provolone Sandwich

This gourmet Grilled Roasted Turkey Provolone Sandwich is a delightful surprise! Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, it's the perfect lunch or light dinner. The secret? Tangy mango chutney adding a delicious depth you won't forget. Get ready to elevate your sandwich game!

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For 1 Or 2 Peppers Tomatoes High Calcium

A Lulu Of A Wrap

Spice up your lunch with this vibrant and flavorful wrap! Lulu's (or maybe Uncle Lawrence's?) secret spicy veggie and cheddar filling makes this recipe a family favorite. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying and exciting meal. Get ready to experience a culinary adventure in just 10 minutes!

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Time To Make American Equipment North American

Acapulco Margarita Grouper

Savor the taste of summer with this vibrant Acapulco Margarita Grouper recipe! Succulent grilled grouper marinated in a tequila-lime mixture, topped with a fresh, fiery salsa, and served with grilled corn and a margarita. This recipe is a fiesta for your taste buds!

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Course Low Calorie Salsas Vegetables

Aji Ecuadorean Hot Sauce

Experience the vibrant flavors of Ecuador with this authentic Aji hot sauce recipe! While countless variations exist, one thing's for sure: aji is a staple on every Ecuadorian table. This recipe captures the fiery essence of South American aji peppers (easily substituted with cayenne or similar small red peppers) in a simple, yet incredibly flavorful condiment. Perfect for adding a kick to your favorite dishes!

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Breakfast 15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Cuisine

Akoori Parsi Scrambled Eggs

Spice up your morning with Akoori Parsi, a flavorful and vibrant Persian scrambled egg recipe! This quick and easy breakfast dish combines fluffy scrambled eggs with aromatic spices like turmeric and coriander, and a delightful hint of chili. Perfect served with warm chapatis for a truly authentic experience.

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Healthy 2 Easy Cuisine Main Ingredient

Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad

Experience the vibrant flavors of Albania with this refreshing tomato and cucumber salad! A traditional Albanian starter, this recipe features equal parts juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. Inspired by a missionary cookbook, "From Bugs to Beans," this simple salad allows for endless customization – add your favorite herbs, cheeses, and olives to create your perfect version. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer, this salad is sure to become a new favorite.

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Picnic Meat Grilling Midwestern

All American Hamburgers

Fire up the grill for these juicy, flavorful All-American BBQ Burgers! Our family recipe features a secret ingredient for extra deliciousness. These 1/4 lb burgers are perfect for a summer cookout and easily customizable – add bacon for a bacon cheeseburger, or your favorite toppings. Get ready for the best burger you've ever tasted!

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Chicken Course Brown Rice Meat

Almost Core Chicken Biryani

Experience the rich, aromatic flavors of India with this Almost Core Chicken Biryani recipe! A slightly altered version from Food & Wine, this dish features tender chicken and fluffy basmati rice infused with fragrant spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Preparation Time To Make

Aloo Rasdar Indian Potato In Gravy Ala Rukshana

A fiery and flavorful Indian potato curry recipe, passed down from a dear friend! This Aloo Rasdar boasts a vibrant, tangy taste thanks to the addition of dried mango powder (optional, but highly recommended!). Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe is surprisingly simple yet delivers a complex depth of flavor. Adjust the chili to your spice preference – be warned, it packs a punch! Discover an authentic taste of India with this easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for both experienced cooks and adventurous beginners.

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To Go Served Cold Main Ingredient Vegan

Amalfi Salads

Impress your guests with these vibrant and refreshing Amalfi Coast Summer Salads! Perfect for a casual help-yourself party, this make-ahead recipe saves you precious time. Prepare the delicious dressing and toast the pine nuts the day before, then simply assemble and serve. Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, these salads are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Preparation Low Fat Served Hot Dietary

Amazing Sweet Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

This ridiculously easy, family-favorite soup recipe is a game-changer! Bursting with flavor from sweet Italian sausage and perfectly cooked pasta, this comforting bowl of goodness will become your new go-to weeknight meal. Get ready for rave reviews!

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American Chili Main Dish Equipment

Andy's All Meat Chili

Unleash your inner chili-head with Andy's All-Meat Chili! This no-bean masterpiece explodes with flavor and heat, proving that chili can be a truly unforgettable experience. Forget bland – this recipe delivers a knockout punch of savory spices and tender, juicy meat. Prepare for a chili so good, it'll redefine your expectations. Perfect for game day, chilly evenings, or any time you crave a bold and satisfying meal.

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To Go To Go Dietary Easy

Anne's Colourful Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad recipe, from my friend Anne, is a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks, brunches, or a quick weeknight meal! It's easy to make, customizable to your favorite veggies, and bursting with fresh flavor. The unique dressing sets it apart from other pasta salads you've tried. Get ready for rave reviews!

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