Tomatoes bring depth, brightness, and bold flavor to all kinds of meals, from rich, slow-cooked dishes to quick pastas and fresh grilled plates. This list includes a wide range of tomato-forward recipes, showing how they can be used fresh, sun-dried, roasted, or stewed across proteins, grains, and vegetables. Some dishes are creamy, others lean tangy or savory, but all of them use tomatoes in a way that adds something extra without overwhelming the other ingredients. Whether you’re working with peak-season heirlooms or a jar of sun-dried, these meals make the most of one of the most versatile kitchen staples.
Heirloom Tomato Pasta
This simple pasta lets fresh heirloom tomatoes shine with just a little olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The sauce comes together quickly, coating the noodles in a light, juicy mix. Best served at room temperature or slightly warm. A great choice for late summer when tomatoes are at their best.
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Chicken with Red Wine Vinegar and Tomatoes
Red wine vinegar adds sharpness that balances the sweetness of cooked tomatoes in this one-skillet chicken dish. The sauce is rich but not heavy, and it clings to the meat beautifully. Serve it with rice, bread, or over greens. A bold and flavorful way to change up your usual chicken routine.
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Baked Fish with Fennel and Tomatoes
Flaky white fish bakes alongside sliced fennel and cherry tomatoes, creating a light, brothy base full of flavor. The vegetables soften and soak up the juices from the fish. It’s easy to prep and finishes in under 30 minutes. Ideal for a simple but satisfying dinner.
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Slow Cooker Shrimp, Farro, and Tomato Risotto
Farro gives this risotto a hearty texture while the tomatoes cook down into a rich, savory base. Shrimp gets added near the end so it stays tender. Everything simmers together in the slow cooker without much effort. A hands-off meal that still feels layered.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Shrimp, Farro, and Tomato Risotto
Low Carb Gnocchi Tomato Basil
This dish skips traditional pasta for low-carb gnocchi tossed in a fresh tomato and basil sauce. The tomatoes cook down quickly, forming a light coating with just enough garlic and olive oil. Add parmesan or keep it simple. A fast and flexible weeknight option.
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Pan Roasted Beef Tenderloin Medallions with Tomato Relish
These tender medallions get a flavorful finish from a bright tomato relish made with herbs, garlic, and olive oil. The contrast between the juicy beef and tangy topping keeps things balanced. Serve with roasted vegetables or a side of grains. A great meal when you want something a little more refined.
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Easy Tomato Focaccia
Ripe tomatoes get pressed into olive oil-rich dough and baked until golden with crispy edges and a soft center. The juices soak into the bread, adding both flavor and texture. Great on its own or as a side. Tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tomato Focaccia
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken
Sun-dried tomatoes add concentrated flavor to a creamy pan sauce that coats seared chicken breasts. The sauce comes together fast with a bit of garlic and parmesan. It’s rich without being too heavy. Great with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
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Creamy Tomato Farfalle
Farfalle pasta gets tossed in a creamy tomato sauce that balances tangy and rich. The sauce clings well to the bowties, and a sprinkle of herbs brings it all together. Add grilled chicken or shrimp if you want more protein. Easy and quick with just a few ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Farfalle
Creamy Broccoli With Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Steamed or sautéed broccoli gets coated in a cheesy, sun-dried tomato cream sauce. The tomatoes add a pop of flavor that cuts through the richness. Serve as a side or mix with pasta or grains for a full meal. A fast way to dress up a simple veggie.
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Carrot and Red Lentil Soup Recipe with Tomatoes
This hearty soup blends red lentils, carrots, and tomatoes into a smooth, comforting bowl with a little spice. It’s thick enough to feel filling without being too heavy. A good option for batch cooking or freezing. Serve with flatbread or on its own.
Get the Recipe: Carrot and Red Lentil Soup Recipe with Tomatoes
20-Minute Grilled Basil Pesto Chicken with Charred Tomatoes and Avocado
Chicken grills quickly and gets topped with charred tomatoes, sliced avocado, and a spoonful of pesto. The combination is fresh, colorful, and loaded with flavor. It’s fast to make and good for warm weather dinners. Serve over greens or grains.
Get the Recipe: 20-Minute Grilled Basil Pesto Chicken with Charred Tomatoes and Avocado
Garlic Tomato Shrimp Scampi Without Wine
This shrimp scampi skips the wine and leans into garlic and tomatoes for a bold, quick-cooking sauce. The tomatoes break down just enough to coat the shrimp. Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. A no-fuss dinner that comes together in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Tomato Shrimp Scampi Without Wine
