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Got a bounty of garden tomatoes? Make the most of peak season with these 20 fresh summer tomato recipes, from vibrant salads to easy dinners.
We recently returned from a fabulous trip to Italy. (Chris and Scott had a few extra days and will wing their way back to the US tomorrow.) While there was lots to love about the trip, one thing that stood out was how delicious the tomatoes were! We enjoyed them on salads, pizza, bruschetta, and more. Even the most basic-looking tomatoes were ripe and delicious. My mouth is watering just thinking about all of it!

The closest I think we will get to those Italian tomatoes at home is fresh from the garden (or farmer's market) tomatoes. I'm in luck, because we're reaching tomato season in our part of the world, and these delicious recipes are calling my name. We've rounded up vibrant salads, easy dinner ideas, soups, and even a fantastic tomato jam. Be sure to save these recipes so you can enjoy fresh tomatoes all summer long!
Italian Tomato Salad (Insalata di Pomodori)
This fresh, vibrant tomato salad is bursting with sunny, Italian-inspired flavor! The recipe features a simple trick that concentrates the tomato's natural sweetness and ensures the bright, herby dressing doesn't get watered down!
Milk Street's Tomato Olive Focaccia
One bite of this Tomato Olive Focaccia and you'll be smitten! With a shatteringly crisp crust, a soft, pillow interior and a topping of herby tomatoes and olives, it might just be one of the best things you've ever tasted!
Any Time of Year Italian Bruschetta
This delicious Italian Bruschetta, made with sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, fresh basil and a splash of balsamic vinegar is easy to make and is ALWAYS a crowd-pleaser!
Sweet and Smoky Tomato Jam
This delicious Sweet and Smoky Tomato Jam makes a fabulous pairing for cheese and charcuterie boards, sandwich spread... and so much more!
Easy Pan-Seared Chicken Bruschetta
If you're in the mood for something healthy, satiating and fabulous, this super easy Pan-Seared Chicken Bruschetta is calling your name! Serve it with some crusty bread to sop up the delicious juices and you'll be hearing rave reviews from family, friends and guests!
Easy Sheet Pan Pizza Margherita with Crispy Focaccia Crust
This Easy Sheet Pan Pizza Margherita combines a fabulously crisp, airy focaccia crust with melty mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, a pesto drizzle and a shower of fresh basil. All baked to perfection on a sheet pan!
French Tomato Basil Ricotta Tart
With a super simple, press-in crust, a ricotta parmesan filling and a juicy tomato basil topping, this French Tomato Ricotta Tart will have everyone begging for more!
Tomato Cucumber Salad with Crispy Chickpeas
This Tomato Cucumber Salad with Crispy Chickpeas is like summer in a bowl. With lots of fresh herbs, it's loaded with vibrant flavor. The easy, pan-fried chickpeas add a healthy and delicious touch!
Turkish Tomato Cucumber Salad
This Turkish Tomato Cucumber Salad has a short ingredient list, but always has a long list of rave reviews. It's fresh, healthy, delicious and can be prepped ahead!
Essence of Summer Caprese Salad
So easy to prepare, this Essence of Summer Caprese Salad makes a gorgeous presentation. It's delicious served on it's own, but also makes a wonderful side for grilled entrees.
Brown Butter Tomato Shrimp and Grits
With a creamy, brown butter-tomato-wine sauce this Shrimp and Grits recipe is easy enough for weeknights but also VERY dinner party-worthy! This fabulous meal in a bowl also features barely cooked fresh cherry tomatoes, sweet, tender shrimp and smoky Andouille sausage served over a bed of white cheddar grits.
Ballymaloe Summer Tomato Salad
Summer tomatoes are at their peak and this Ballymaloe Summer Tomato Salad is a fabulous way to enjoy their deliciousness! It may just be the best thing you eat all season!
Easy Fresh Tomato Basil Soup
There's nothing quite like tomato soup made from fresh tomatoes and basil. Once you try it, you'll never want it any other way!
Stone Fruit Tomato Caprese Salad
If you're looking for the freshest, most delicious summer salad imaginable, this Stone Fruit Tomato Caprese Salad is IT! The fabulous Sweet Basil Dressing is the crowning glory!
Garlic Herb Roasted Tomatoes
So easy and delicious in salads, pasta dishes, omelets and on pizzas or sandwiches.
Roasted Tomato Fresh Mozzarella Pasta
Roasted Tomato Fresh Mozzarella Pasta - if this delicious pasta dish could talk, it would be shouting "summer"! All of the season's best flavors wrapped up in one bowl!
Slow Roasted Tomato Ancient Grain Salad
Think you need to avoid Italian food if you're trying to eat healthier? Nope! This fabulous ancient grain salad is loaded with all the delicious flavors of Italy minus the refined carbs and high-calorie counts!
Green Bean Caprese Salad
This flavorful Green Bean Caprese Salad combines slender green beans and baby potatoes with classic Caprese ingredients. The salad is finished off with a drizzle of delicious Lemon Basil Oil.
Roasted Tomato Lentil Soup Caprese
With traditional tomato-basil flavor and lots of healthy red lentils, this delicious, unique soup has a classic Caprese topping of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.
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