When it comes to adding a burst of flavor and color to your meals, few ingredients can rival the humble grape tomato. These sweet and tangy treats are the perfect addition to any dish, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side or a flavorful base for a main course. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious grape tomato recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic combinations like caprese salad and bruschetta, to more innovative dishes like stuffed peppers and quinoa bowls, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Roasted Grape Tomatoes with Garlic and Herbs
Roasted Grape Tomatoes with Garlic and Herbs: A flavorful and aromatic side dish that brings out the sweetness of grape tomatoes, perfect for accompanying your favorite meals!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grape tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and are slightly caramelized.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grape Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad
This classic Italian salad is a staple for any gathering, with its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning dish that’s perfect for warm weather or as an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 grape tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the grape tomatoes on a large plate or platter.
2. Place the mozzarella slices on top of the tomatoes, slightly overlapping each other.
3. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with olive oil, if desired, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, so prepare it just before serving.
Balsamic Glazed Grape Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and tangy bruschetta, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a simple snack. Fresh grape tomatoes are glazed in a rich balsamic reduction and piled high on toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and honey. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush with the balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until toasted.
4. Top each bruschetta slice with a spoonful of glazed grape tomatoes. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grape Tomato and Basil Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of grape tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a simple yet flavorful pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add grape tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices and soften slightly.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-basil mixture. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Grape Tomato Skillet
A flavorful and vibrant skillet dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch. This recipe brings together the sweetness of grape tomatoes, the richness of garlic butter, and the simplicity of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb grape tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add grape tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Spread remaining 2 tbsp of butter on top of tomatoes.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese (if using) and parsley over the top.
7. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Grape Tomato and Avocado Salsa
This sweet and savory salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. The combination of juicy grape tomatoes and creamy avocado creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine grape tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Grape Tomato and Feta Cheese Tart
This Grape Tomato and Feta Cheese Tart is a perfect combination of sweet and savory, ideal for a light summer meal or as an appetizer. The tart crust holds together beautifully, allowing the flavors of the grape tomatoes and feta cheese to shine.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange grape tomatoes and feta cheese on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Fold other half of pastry over filling; press edges to seal.
5. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Grape Tomato Jam
This sweet and spicy jam is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, cheeses, or crackers. With the natural sweetness of grape tomatoes and the kick from red pepper flakes, this jam is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine grape tomatoes, sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the jam has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
4. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grape Tomato and Cucumber Salad
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for your next BBQ. The sweetness of the grape tomatoes pairs beautifully with the crunch of fresh cucumber, making it a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
– 2 cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grape tomatoes and cucumber slices.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and toss to coat.
3. Add the vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Grape Tomato and Spinach Frittata
Start your day with a burst of flavor from this vibrant frittata packed with sweet grape tomatoes, fresh spinach, and creamy eggs. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add grape tomatoes; cook until they release their juices and start to soften (about 3-4 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Push the tomato mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until almost set.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves on top of the eggs and stir until wilted.
5. Combine the tomato and spinach mixture, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the eggs are fully set.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Grape Tomato and Goat Cheese Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet elegant Grape Tomato and Goat Cheese Crostini recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Top each crostini with a halved grape tomato, a spoonful of crumbled goat cheese, and a pinch of chopped basil (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grape Tomato and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory tapenade made with grape tomatoes and olives. Perfect for topping crackers, bread, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine grape tomatoes, olives, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Transfer tapenade to a serving bowl or airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (mostly hands-off blending time)
Grape Tomato and Corn Salad
This refreshing salad celebrates the sweet flavors of grape tomatoes and corn, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grape tomatoes, corn kernels, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture; toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time included)
Grape Tomato and Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful and colorful skewer recipe! Fresh grape tomatoes and juicy chicken breast are perfectly paired in a simple and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add chicken and grape tomatoes to the marinade; toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken and grape tomato onto skewers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grape Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Grape Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A Twist on Classic Lasagna
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of grape tomatoes with the tanginess of ricotta cheese, wrapped up in a tender shell. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top shells with grape tomatoes and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Grape Tomato and Pesto Flatbread
This recipe combines the sweetness of grape tomatoes with the tanginess of pesto, all on a crispy flatbread. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet.
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the grape tomatoes on top of the pesto.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grape Tomato and Shrimp Scampi
A quick and flavorful seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with sweet grape tomatoes and a hint of garlic butter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and swirl until melted.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. Add the grape tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to soften.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the tomato mixture.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grape Tomato and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines sweet grape tomatoes with nutty quinoa for a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, grape tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using). Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grape Tomato and Arugula Pizza
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional pizza, this recipe combines the sweetness of grape tomatoes with the peppery taste of arugula for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
– 4 cups fresh arugula leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread grape tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Sprinkle arugula leaves on top of the tomatoes.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the arugula.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grape Tomato and Balsamic Reduction Crostata
This sweet and savory crostata is perfect for a summer evening or a light lunch. The combination of grape tomatoes, caramelized onions, and balsamic reduction creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Cook onions for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Arrange grape tomatoes and caramelized onions on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold other half of the pastry over the filling to form a crostata shape. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush with balsamic reduction (see note) and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to be inspired by these 20 delicious grape tomato recipes that are perfect for every occasion! From classic Caprese salad to flavorful jam and savory pasta dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try roasting grape tomatoes with garlic and herbs for a simple yet impressive side dish or use them to add flavor to your favorite pasta recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to delight.