Few ingredients herald the peak of British summer quite like the tomato. Brightly coloured and bursting with flavour, these sun-loving beauties crave warmth, and they hit their UK prime from July to October.
These endlessly diverse fruits (which are usually treated more like a vegetable) come in literally thousands of varieties. While postbox red is perhaps the most iconic, look out for dark purple, golden yellow, bright green or even striped varieties. Enjoy the sweetness of the rounded cherry tomato or elegantly elongated plum, or explore the robust earthiness of the large, wrinkled beef tomato.
Originating in the Andes Mountains of western South America, tomatoes were introduced to Europe in the early sixteenth century, where they’ve become a much-loved ingredient in everything from salads to sauces. It’s hard to resist the well-rounded flavour profile – sweet but tangy, with umami earth notes – that makes them so versatile and enjoyable.
How to store and cook tomatoes
Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, until fully ripe. Once ripe, enjoy as soon as possible, or refrigerate to keep them fresher for longer. If you can, keep them attached to their vines to prevent moisture loss and mould, or store stem-side down for a similar effect.
While fresh tomatoes are delicious as they are, cooking them brings out their natural sweetness. Try simply pan-frying in olive oil for about 10 minutes with salt, pepper and garlic for juicy tomatoes that complement risottos, pastas and eggs.
Roasting adds a soft, caramelised sweetness. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt, pepper and herbs such as thyme, then roast for 20–35 minutes until they collapse. Or, dice them and sauté with onions, garlic and your favourite herbs or spices for 15-20 minutes to create a thick, rich base for stews, soups and curries.
The good-for-you part
Tomatoes are high in fibre and a source of vitamin C.
Our favourite tomato recipes
Looking for tomato inspiration? Look no further.
Harissa & Sundried Tomato Pasta Salad with Courgette & Dukkah
This 20-minute pasta salad is perfect for those no-faff days. Harissa and hot honey give fresh tomatoes a kick, while seasonal courgette and Tenderstem broccoli are roasted to charred perfection. With brown rice penne, this is a plant-packed feast.
Creamy Tomato Risotto with Grilled Feta & Rocket
Baby tomatoes take centre stage in this speedy 30-minute risotto. Topped with tangy grilled feta and vibrant balsamic rocket, it’s a classic the whole family will love. Buon appetito!
Beef-stuffed Tomatoes with Grilled Asparagus
British asparagus meets the flavours of the Mediterranean: think juicy beef tomatoes, elegant herbs and crunchy pine nuts. A hearty filling of grass-fed beef and rice packs in the protein, and it’s all finished off with a drizzle of rich tomato sauce.
Creamy Tomato Salmon with Brown Rice & Dill
Fresh and oh-so-delicious, this simple supper is ideal for summer evenings. Flaky salmon is simmered in a creamy tomato sauce with sundried tomatoes, garlic and chilli. A squeeze of lemon and a dash of dill add zing and brightness.
Turkey Tomato Ragu with Gnocchi & Mixed Leaf Salad
This speedy gnocchi dish is ready in a pinch. Fresh, juicy tomatoes form the base of the rich turkey ragu, while pillowy gnocchi soaks up the flavour and a peppery mixed salad adds greens.
Mexican-style Halloumi Rice with Tomato Salsa
Fancy taking tomatoes in a different direction? Introducing our easy, cheesy Mexican-style rice and black bean bake. Starring halloumi, smoky spice and crunchy corn, it’s perfectly complemented by a zingy tomato-lime salsa on the side.
Want more tomato inspiration? Choose your recipes now.