Tomatoes are one of the most versatile and delicious vegetables in the world. They can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from simple salads and sandwiches to more complex sauces and soups. Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

In this article, we’ll outline three tasty ways of enjoying tomatoes that everyone at your meal will adore.

Roasted Tomato Soup

This velvety and flavorful soup is the ideal way to celebrate the distinct taste of tomatoes while using up any excess. Plus it makes great use of leftover tomatoes.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and quartered
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
• In a large bowl, toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Spread the tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned.
• While the tomatoes are roasting, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
• Add the roasted tomatoes to the pot and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are completely soft.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool slightly.
• Puree the soup in a blender or food processor until smooth.
• Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
• Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
• Heat the soup over medium heat until warmed through.
• Serve the soup immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer made with grilled bread, tomatoes, and basil. It is a simple dish to make, but it is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
• Brush the bread slices with olive oil.
• Grill the bread slices for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and toasted.
• While the bread is grilling, combine the tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Rub the grilled bread slices with the garlic cloves.
• Top the grilled bread slices with the tomato mixture.
• Serve immediately.

Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

This refreshing and flavorful salad is perfect for a summer meal. It is also a great way to use up leftover tomatoes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
• Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Toss to combine.
• Serve immediately.

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Tips

• For the best flavor, use ripe, seasonal tomatoes.
• If using a grill, coat tomato slices in olive oil before grilling.
• To create a vegan version of tomato and mozzarella salad, use vegan mozzarella cheese.
• Combine any of these tomato dishes with some crusty bread or pasta for an impressive meal.