When it comes to cooking with tomatoes, few varieties are as versatile or delicious as plum tomatoes. Their unique shape and dense flesh make them perfect for a wide range of dishes, from soups and sauces to salads and sandwiches. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering plum tomato recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a classic bruschetta or a more adventurous tart, we’ve got you covered. So let’s get started on our culinary journey and discover the many ways you can enjoy these juicy, flavorful tomatoes!
Classic Plum Tomato Bruschetta
Classic Plum Tomato Bruschetta: A flavorful and refreshing appetizer perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of plums (about 12-15), halved and pitted
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 slices of baguette or rustic bread, toasted
– 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together plum halves, olive oil, garlic, and salt.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 15-20 minutes or until plums are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices by placing them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until slightly browned.
5. Top toasted bread with roasted plum mixture, chopped basil, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Plum Tomato Soup
Roasted Plum Tomato Soup Recipe
Warm up with this sweet and savory soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening. This Roasted Plum Tomato Soup is a twist on the classic, featuring roasted plums to add natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes (canned or fresh), cored
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 plums, halved and pitted
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the tomato mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in 2 tablespoons olive oil until softened.
5. Add the roasted tomatoes, plums, vegetable broth, and basil to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in batches.
8. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes
Plum Tomato and Basil Caprese Salad
This vibrant salad celebrates the sweetness of plum tomatoes and the freshness of basil, all tied together with creamy mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner, this caprese is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 3 large plum tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic vinegar.
4. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and at room temperature.
Spaghetti with Fresh Plum Tomato Sauce
This recipe brings together the simplicity of spaghetti with the vibrant flavor of fresh plum tomatoes, creating a delicious and light summer dish. The sauce is made with just a few ingredients, allowing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes to shine.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 lbs fresh plum tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with the fresh tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Plum Tomato and Mozzarella Panini
Savor the flavors of summer with this sweet and savory panini, featuring grilled plums, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of artisanal bread (e.g., Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 2 large plums, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the bread slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the bread for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly toasted.
4. Meanwhile, grill the plum slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized.
5. Assemble the panini by spreading a slice of mozzarella on each piece of grilled bread, followed by a tomato slice, a few pieces of grilled plum, and a sprinkle of chopped basil.
6. Top with another slice of grilled bread and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes grilling time)
Plum Tomato and Garlic Confit Tart
This Plum Tomato and Garlic Confit Tart is a flavorful twist on the classic quiche, featuring caramelized garlic and juicy plum tomatoes in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this recipe showcases the best of summer’s produce.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 3 large plum tomatoes, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Spread garlic confit evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Top with diced plum tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is tender.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Slow-Roasted Plum Tomatoes with Herbs
Elevate your tomato game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of plum tomatoes with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs plum tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and garlic until well coated.
3. Spread the tomato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 3-4 hours or overnight, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven when the tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Stir in chopped parsley and basil just before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (or overnight)
Plum Tomato and Olive Tapenade
This sweet and savory tapenade is perfect for topping crackers or using as a spread on sandwiches. It’s also great as a dip for vegetables or pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups plum tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine plum tomatoes, green olives, Kalamata olives, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Transfer tapenade to a serving bowl or airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup
Plum Tomato Gazpacho with Cucumber
This refreshing gazpacho recipe combines the sweetness of plums with the tanginess of tomatoes, all wrapped up with a cool and creamy cucumber twist. Perfect for hot summer days when you need a light and revitalizing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced plum tomatoes
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine plum tomatoes, fresh tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Blend until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and diced cucumber.
3. Add the blended tomato mixture to the yogurt-cucumber mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Plum Tomato and Goat Cheese Quiche
Elevate your brunch game with this stunning Plum Tomato and Goat Cheese Quiche. Fresh plums add a pop of color and sweetness, while tangy goat cheese provides a creamy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups plum tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. Arrange plum tomatoes, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle goat cheese, cheddar cheese, and parsley over the tomatoes.
5. Whisk together egg, salt, and pepper; pour over the filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the quiche is set.
7. Let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Plum Tomato and Pesto Flatbread
Combine the sweetness of plums, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the richness of pesto for a unique and flavorful flatbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup plum tomato, diced
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into a thin sheet.
7. Top with diced plum tomato and pesto.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Plum Tomato and Balsamic Glazed Chicken
This recipe brings together the sweetness of plum tomatoes, the tanginess of balsamic glaze, and the juiciness of chicken breast to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups plum tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
6. Add plum tomatoes and balsamic glaze; simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Brush the tomato mixture over the cooked chicken breasts.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stuffed Plum Tomatoes with Couscous
These sweet and savory stuffed tomatoes are perfect for a light and refreshing summer meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of juicy plum tomatoes, nutty couscous, and flavorful herbs is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large plum tomatoes
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. Cut the tops off the plum tomatoes and scoop out some of the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
4. In a bowl, mix cooked couscous with olive oil, chopped onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each tomato with the couscous mixture, filling to the top.
6. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of the tomatoes.
7. Place stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plum Tomato and Zucchini Frittata
A flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the sweetness of plums, tanginess of tomatoes, and freshness of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup diced plum tomatoes
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in a 9-inch (23cm) oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the diced plum tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the grated zucchini and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the frittata is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Plum Tomato and Eggplant Parmesan
A twist on the classic Italian-American dish, this recipe combines the sweetness of plum tomatoes with the richness of eggplant and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cups plum tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Dip eggplant slices in beaten eggs and then coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate skillet, sauté plum tomatoes with salt, pepper, and chopped basil (if using).
5. Assemble the Parmesan by layering cooked eggplant, tomato mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish. Repeat layers two more times.
6. Top with final layer of mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Plum Tomato and Avocado Salsa
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional salsa, this recipe combines the flavors of plum tomatoes, ripe avocados, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups plum tomatoes, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the plum tomatoes, avocado, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro leaves.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (refrigeration time)
Plum Tomato and Cilantro Lime Rice
This vibrant rice dish combines the sweetness of plum tomatoes with the brightness of cilantro and a squeeze of lime, perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a standalone side.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped plum tomatoes (about 2-3)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. While rice cooks, mix chopped cilantro, plum tomatoes, lime juice, and olive oil in a small bowl.
4. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the tomato-cilantro mixture. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plum Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the sweetness of plums with the savory flavors of tomato and ricotta, wrapped up in tender shells. A perfect twist on a classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked plum tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, plum tomatoes, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the tomato-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavor of plum tomatoes with these 18 delicious recipes! From classic bruschetta to roasted soups, salads, pasta dishes, paninis, tarts, and more, there’s something for every occasion. Savor the flavors of plum tomato and basil caprese salad, or go savory with spaghetti and fresh plum tomato sauce. For a twist, try grilled plum tomato and mozzarella panini or plum tomato and garlic confit tart. These recipes showcase the versatility of this beloved ingredient, sure to please even the pickiest palates.
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