Ten Ways to Have Tomatoes for Dinner

Juicy tomatoes get their time in the sun and now it is time for them to shine in these summery dinner, side and salad recipes.
By Relish

This article has been posted with permission and originally appeared as 10 Ways to Have Tomatoes for Dinner on Relish

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Here Come the Tomatoes…
Our most favorite fruit that publicly parades itself as a vegetable is now sitting ripely on summertime vines across the country. And what better way to celebrate tomato’s triumphant arrival than with a dinner (or multiple dinners) showcasing its ruby brilliance?

The following tomato-focused dishes call on all sorts, from cherry to ripe orange, for recipes you’ll surely want to make all season long.

1. Pan-Fried Trout with Basil Tomato Sauce
We love pairing a rich tomato sauce, ours features sweet, sauteed cherry tomatoes, cream and butter, with pan-fried trout. The creamy sause is a perfect foil to the lean fish. Get the recipe.

2. Ham with Beans and Tomatoes
Here is a one-dish bean salad that is perfect for when you’re craving something light and cool on a hot day. Calling for only five ingredients and requiring just five minutes of prep time, the recipe is incredibly simple and will be super fresh if you use juicy heirloom tomatoes. Get the recipe.

3. Roasted Mexican Tomato Soup
Packed with fresh vegetables, roasted tomatoes, and a touch of cheese, this Mexican-inspired tomato soup makes a for a savory and surprisingly filling meal. Side with a classic grilled cheese and kids are guaranteed to go nuts for it. Get the recipe.

4. Watermelon, Tomato and Cucumber Salad
It’s a fact, watermelons and tomatoes will forever be summertime staples—and we will forever love them. For this salad, dice and add the pair to a medley of cucumbers, torn basil and feta for a light and superbly good dinner salad. Get the recipe.

5. Herbed Tomato Salad
Meet caprese salad’s more flavorful cousin. This salad combines the sweetness of tomatoes and Vidalia onions with salty olives and an herby vinaigrette. We suggest using ciliegine mozzarella, fresh mozzarella that comes in the shape of small, cherry-sized balls, for an extra-pretty plate. Get the recipe.

6. Tomato Phyllo Pie
A vegetarian’s dream, this heavenly and savory tart calls for a hearty dose of juicy tomatoes, mozzarella and feta. If you want, you can certainly adjust the toppings. Try summery squash or eggplant or even sprinkle on a little chicken or ground beef for the carnivores out there. Get the recipe.

7. Cheesy Orzo Tomatoes
Herb-infused Boursin cheese melts into the tender orzo that makes these stuffed tomatoes shine. We suggest serving them as an appetizer or fun, individualized side dish. Get the recipe.

8. Shrimp with Fresh Tomatoes, Basil and Feta
This quick and easy shrimp recipe requires just five ingredients and takes only seven minutes to prepare and cook. Fresh feta and crushed end-of-summer tomatoes are the real stars here, and the dish is an absolute dream when served atop orzo. Get the recipe.

9. Three Tomatoes with Creamy Artichoke Chicken Salad
Orange, yellow and red cherry tomatoes dress up this creamy chicken salad that will be a welcomed addition to any potluck or picnic. Get the recipe.

10. Balsamic Roasted Tomato Sauce
Use the best vine-ripened heirloom tomatoes you can track down for this meaty sauce. The balsamic vinegar and blackened tomatoes give depth and complexity that will send your taste buds buzzing. Get the recipe.