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

Served Hot Preparation Time To Make Stove Top

Bahamian Crab N Rice

Conch may be synonymous with the Bahamas, but did you know that this delectable Crab 'n' Rice is a true national treasure? Experience the intensely flavorful heart of Bahamian cuisine! This recipe, while challenging for crab-prep novices, delivers a taste sensation like no other. Imagine succulent land crab infused with aromatic spices, served alongside steamed Nassau grouper, crisp coleslaw, and sweet fried plantains – a taste of paradise, especially enjoyed during the peak season of June-August. Prepare for an unforgettable culinary adventure!

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Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less Poultry Meat

Baked Chicken Stuffed Tomatoes

Transform leftover roast chicken into a stunning and flavorful meal with this Baked Chicken Stuffed Tomatoes recipe! This elegant dish is perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying supper. Juicy tomatoes are filled with a creamy chicken, celery, and onion mixture, then baked to golden perfection. A simple yet impressive recipe that's sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready for a burst of deliciousness!

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Kid Friendly Course Preparation Cuisine

Amy's Favorite Indian Fry Bread Tacos

A family favorite recipe! These incredible Indian Fry Bread Tacos are crispy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe combines a hearty meat and bean filling with homemade fry bread for a truly unique and delicious taco experience. Perfect for a fun family dinner or impressing guests! Get ready for rave reviews!

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Equipment Beef Easy Main Ingredient

Beef Barley And Vegetable Soup

This comforting Beef Barley and Vegetable Soup bursts with fresh flavor! Simple to make, it's perfect for a cozy night in and easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy this delicious, healthy meal made in either a slow cooker or on the stovetop.

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Low Calorie Breakfast Low In Something Preparation

Afghan Eggs And Tomato Tukhum Bonjan Or Agay Bonjan

Discover the vibrant flavors of Afghanistan with this quick and easy Tukhum Bonjan (or Agay Bonjan) recipe! This delightful dish features perfectly scrambled eggs with sautéed tomatoes and onions, seasoned with fragrant herbs. Served with warm Afghan bread and sweet sheer chai, it's a comforting and authentic Afghan breakfast or light meal. Get ready for a taste of Afghan culinary tradition in just 15 minutes!

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Vegetables Low In Something Salads Bacon

Avocado Blt Salad

Creamy avocado meets crispy bacon and juicy tomatoes in this elevated BLT Salad! A vibrant and satisfying recipe perfect for a light lunch or summer dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion from Razzle Dazzle Recipes! (Prep time does not include dressing marinating time)

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30 Minutes Or Less Course Main Dish American

Beef And Macaroni

A quick and easy 22-minute Beef and Macaroni recipe! This comforting classic combines savory ground beef with perfectly cooked macaroni, vibrant vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Served with a side of American cheese, crusty bread, and a fresh green salad, it's the perfect family-friendly meal.

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Ground Beef Pasta Meat Easy

Awesome And Easy Spaghetti Casserole

Craving comfort food? This unbelievably easy spaghetti casserole is a crowd-pleaser perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings! Skip the pot and enjoy a baked pasta delight bursting with flavor. Vegetarian? Simply omit the meat and add a handful of spinach for a hearty, satisfying meal. Freezes beautifully for future enjoyment!

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Low In Something Healthy 2 Preparation Low In Something

All In One Spaghetti

This incredibly easy one-pot spaghetti recipe is a family favorite! Inspired by a Southern Living Magazine classic (November 1998), this recipe boasts a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly coats every strand of pasta. The secret? Cooking the spaghetti directly in the sauce, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready for a taste of Southern comfort food!

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Preparation Main Dish Seafood Low Sodium

Belinda's Tilapia Recipe

This recipe, shared by Belinda herself, is a simple yet stunning dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party! Imagine tender tilapia fillets nestled on a bed of vibrant spinach and green beans, all bathed in savory garlic, onion, and tomato goodness. This easy bake is bursting with flavor and color, promising a comforting and delicious experience. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Beef Meat Vegetables Crock Pot Slow Cooker

A Can Of This And A Can Of That Crock Pot Chili

This incredibly easy and flavorful crock-pot chili recipe is a crowd-pleaser! Perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings, this recipe uses pantry staples and requires minimal prep time. Inspired by a wedding shower gift, this nostalgic chili is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for tender beef, zesty tomatoes, and hearty beans – all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker!

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3 Steps Or Less Very Low Carbs Low Carb Dinner Party

Bbq Bacon Chicken

This mouthwatering BBQ Bacon Chicken recipe is a family favorite! We've perfected this delicious dish, combining juicy chicken breasts with smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese. Customize your toppings to create your perfect combination. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Time To Make Soups Stews Inexpensive Beans

Beanie Weenie Soup In The Crock Pot

Comfort food at its finest! This easy crock-pot recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying Beanie Weenie Soup, perfect for a chilly evening. Made with simple ingredients and slow-cooked to perfection, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

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Sandwiches American Northeastern United States Occasion

Awesome Turkey Sandwich

Transform leftover turkey into a sensational sandwich! This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, featuring a creamy cranberry-dill dressing. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

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Time To Make Greens Vegetables Pork

Bacon And Egg Salad Sandwiches

Crispy bacon and creamy egg salad nestled between perfectly toasted bread slices! This classic recipe is quick, easy, and unbelievably satisfying. Perfect for a light lunch, brunch, or a satisfying snack.

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Pork Sausage Dinner Party Comfort Food Time To Make

Awesome Lasagna No Boil Easy

Craving a comforting, cheesy lasagna but short on time? This incredibly easy no-boil lasagna recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort! Our tweaked family recipe uses Italian sausage for a rich, savory taste (easily swappable for ground beef), and boasts layers of creamy ricotta, vibrant tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella. Get ready for a crowd-pleasing dish that's ready in under 2 hours!

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Time To Make Beef Main Dish Beef Sausage

Bangers And Beans

A quick and easy Kiwi-inspired recipe for hearty Bangers and Beans! This comforting dish is ready in under an hour and perfect for a weeknight meal. Savory sausages simmered in a rich sauce with sweet baked beans and warming spices.

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Number Of Servings Course Preparation Wedding

Bacon Lettuce Tomato Dip

This crowd-pleasing Bacon Lettuce Tomato Ranch Dip is a guaranteed hit! Inspired by a Pampered Chef recipe, this hearty and flavorful dip combines creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy celery for an irresistible taste sensation. Perfect for parties, game days, or a simple weeknight snack, this recipe is easy to make and even easier to devour. Prepare to be amazed by the delicious blend of textures and flavors – it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again!

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