Summer is the season when tomatoes truly shine. Bursting with vibrant colors and rich flavours, these sun-ripened gems are at their peak during the warmest months. Whether you’re picking them fresh from the garden or grabbing them at the farmer’s market, summer tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can elevate any dish.

A tomato peaks in flavour and abundance in the late summer months. Below you will find our list of recipes that will allow you to celebrate the best way to enjoy this seasonal favourites. From light, refreshing salads to hearty mains that highlight the tomato's natural sweetness, these recipes are perfect for showcasing summer's bounty. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just looking for simple, delicious ideas, you'll find inspiration here to make the most of your summer tomatoes. Dive in and savour the flavours of the season!

Here is a list of 

Heirloom Tomatoes

• Known for their unique colours, shapes, and rich flavors, heirloom tomatoes are prized for salads and raw preparations. Their distinct taste and juicy texture make them a summer favourite.

Roma Tomatoes

• Also called plum tomatoes, Romas are firm, meaty, and have fewer seeds, and an acidic making them ideal for sauces, salsas, and canning. Their dense flesh holds up well when cooked.

Cherry Tomatoes

• These small, bite-sized tomatoes are sweet, juicy, and perfect for snacking, salads, or roasting. Their vibrant color and burst of flavor add a fresh touch to any dish.

Beefsteak Tomatoes

• Large, meaty, and juicy, Beefsteak tomatoes are often used in sandwiches and burgers. Their robust size and mild flavor also make them great for slicing.

Grape Tomatoes

• Similar to cherry tomatoes but slightly smaller and less watery, grape tomatoes have a firmer texture and a sweet flavor. They’re perfect for skewers, salads, or roasting.

San Marzano Tomatoes

• A type of plum tomato with a sweet, rich flavor, San Marzanos are considered the gold standard for making tomato sauces. Their thick flesh and low acidity make them perfect for slow-cooked dishes.

Campari Tomatoes

• Known for their sweetness and low acidity, Campari tomatoes are often used in salads and for fresh eating. Their round, medium size and vibrant red color make them a versatile choice.

Yellow Pear Tomatoes

• These small, yellow, pear-shaped tomatoes are mild and slightly tangy, adding a bright color and unique shape to salads. Their delicate flavor makes them great for garnishes.

Green Zebra Tomatoes

• With a striking green and yellow striped appearance, Green Zebra tomatoes have a tangy, slightly tart flavour. They add a zesty punch to salads and salsas.

Brandywine Tomatoes

• A popular heirloom variety, Brandywine tomatoes are large and juicy with a rich, sweet flavor. They’re often used in sandwiches and salads for their superior taste and texture.

When choosing a tomato for a recipe, several factors can influence your selection to ensure the best flavor and texture:

1. Flavor Profile:
   • Consider the sweetness, acidity, and overall flavor of the tomato. For example, sweeter tomatoes like cherry or Campari work well in salads, while more acidic varieties like Roma or San Marzano are ideal for sauces.
2. Texture:
   • The texture of the tomato is crucial, especially depending on how it will be used. Firm tomatoes like Romas are better for cooking and sauces because they hold up well under heat, while juicy varieties like Beefsteak are great for fresh dishes like sandwiches or salads.
3. Water Content:
   • Tomatoes with high water content, like Beefsteak, can make dishes more watery, which is fine for fresh preparations but not ideal for sauces or roasting. For recipes requiring less moisture, opt for drier tomatoes like Romas.
4. Size and Shape:
   • The size and shape can impact both the presentation and ease of preparation. Cherry or grape tomatoes are perfect for salads or roasting whole, while larger tomatoes like heirlooms or Beefsteak are best for slicing.
5. Color:
   • The color of the tomato can enhance the visual appeal of a dish. Heirloom varieties come in a range of colors that can add vibrancy to salads and platters, while red tomatoes are traditional for sauces.
6. Cooking Method:
   • Different tomatoes respond better to certain cooking methods. For instance, Romas are excellent for slow-cooking into sauces, while cherry tomatoes roast beautifully and develop a concentrated sweetness.
7. Ripeness:
   • The ripeness of the tomato affects its flavor and texture. Choose fully ripe tomatoes for salads and raw dishes to get the best taste, while slightly underripe ones can work well in cooking where they’ll soften.
8. Seasonality:
   • Fresh, in-season tomatoes will always taste better. During peak season, locally grown heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are often the best choice for their superior flavor.
9. Intended Use:
   • Think about how the tomato will be used in the recipe. If you need slices, a large, meaty tomato like a Beefsteak is ideal. If you're making a sauce, go for a tomato that cooks down well, like San Marzano.
10. Personal Preference:
    • Finally, personal taste preferences play a big role. Some people prefer sweeter tomatoes, while others might like a more balanced or tangy flavour, so choose based on what you enjoy most.

The BEST tomatoes can be enjoyed simply with a sprinkle of salt. If you grow your own tomatoes you know what I am talking about. If you grow your own tomatoes you will have an abundance! 

Here is a list of our favourite tomato based recipes

1. Roasted Tomato Bisque
2. Tomato Bruschetta
3. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
4. Eggplant and Tomato Braise with Feta Cheese
5. Butter beans with Feta and Dill
6. Greek Quinoa Salad
7. Tabouli & Hummus plate
8. Pan-seared scallops with fresh tomato lemon sauce
9. Classic BLT
10. Pico de gallo