Diced tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many kitchens, and for good reason. They add a burst of juicy flavor to everything from soups and salads to pasta dishes and stir-fries. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or something more elaborate, diced tomatoes can be used as a base for countless recipes. In this article, we’ll take a look at 18 delicious ways to use diced tomatoes in your cooking, from classic homemade salsa to Mediterranean quinoa bowls and everything in between.
Classic homemade salsa with diced tomatoes
Bring the flavor of Mexico to your table with this simple and delicious homemade salsa recipe. Made with fresh diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro, it’s perfect for dipping chips, topping tacos, or using as a condiment.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (such as Roma or cherry tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy tomato and black bean soup
Warm up with this flavorful and spicy soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the richness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy one-pot tomato basil pasta
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the freshness of basil with the richness of tomato sauce, all in one pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or bow tie)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to release their juices.
6. Stir in the chopped basil and cook for an additional minute.
7. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato mixture in the pot.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bruschetta with fresh diced tomatoes and garlic
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet delicious bruschetta recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick snack. Fresh diced tomatoes and garlic come together to create a sweet and savory topping for toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon tomato mixture over toasted bread rounds.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mexican-style street corn salad with tomatoes
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional street corn, this salad combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the tanginess of tomatoes and a hint of lime.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes to the bowl and stir to combine.
5. Once corn is cooked, cut it off the cob and add it to the bowl.
6. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Top with crumbled cheese (if using) and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean quinoa and tomato bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with quinoa, roasted tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 3 large tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. Toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tomatoes are tender.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Stir in feta cheese and parsley.
5. Serve quinoa mixture in a bowl, topped with roasted tomatoes. Squeeze lemon juice over the top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Quick and easy shakshuka
Savory eggs baked in a flavorful tomato sauce – this North African dish is a weeknight winner! With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Create 4 wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade tomato and vegetable stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of fresh vegetables, savory tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together to create a warm and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, this recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and zucchini)
– 4 sprigs of fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
3. Add the diced tomatoes, red bell pepper, mixed vegetables, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy tomato and spinach gnocchi
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that’s sure to please! This creamy tomato and spinach gnocchi recipe is a twist on the classic, with the added bonus of soft and pillowy gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Knead the mixture for about 5 minutes until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough into long ropes and cut into 1-inch pieces.
5. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic, crushed tomatoes, and heavy cream. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Add cooked gnocchi and wilted spinach to the sauce. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed bell peppers with diced tomatoes
Savor the sweet flavor of bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground beef, and diced tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with its original lid.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and place in a baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and cucumber avocado salad
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy side dish any time of the year. With the creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumber, this recipe is sure to satisfy your hunger and cravings.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, cucumber slices, and tomato pieces.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro leaves over the top of the salad.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time only)
Servings: 4-6
Slow-cooked beef and tomato ragu
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked beef and tomatoes in this comforting ragu recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. This hearty dish is easy to prepare and can be served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked beef, tomatoes, red wine, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (depending on cooking method)
Fresh tomato and mozzarella caprese salad
A classic Italian salad that’s as simple as it is delicious! Fresh Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad is a timeless favorite that highlights the flavors of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 3 large fresh 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 fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top tomatoes with mozzarella cheese slices, slightly overlapping them.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, followed by balsamic vinegar.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves evenly over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes! This salad is best served fresh, so no cooking required.
Spicy tomato and chickpea curry
A flavorful and spicy curry that combines the richness of tomatoes with the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and canned diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato and herb-infused rice pilaf
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and aromatic rice pilaf, infused with the sweetness of tomatoes and the brightness of fresh herbs. This side dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add rice; stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
4. Add water, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and basil.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff with fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy homemade tomato and lentil soup
This recipe makes a deliciously hearty and healthy soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful pot of goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the lentils, chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted tomato and garlic bruschetta
Roasted Tomato and Garlic Bruschetta: A flavorful twist on the classic Italian appetizer, this recipe combines the sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the pungency of garlic and the crunch of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss tomato halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spread roasted garlic cloves on toasted bread rounds.
5. Top each round with a roasted tomato half, sprinkling with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tomato and zucchini stir-fry with herbs
Elevate your stir-fry game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, combining the sweetness of tomatoes and zucchini with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the tomatoes and cook until they start to release their juices, about 2 minutes.
6. Stir in parsley and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 mouthwatering recipes featuring diced tomatoes! From classic homemade salsa and spicy tomato soup to Mediterranean quinoa bowls and creamy gnocchi dishes, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in bruschetta with fresh garlic, Mexican-style street corn salads, or stuffed bell peppers. Enjoy a variety of international flavors, including Indian-inspired curries and Moroccan-infused rice pilafs. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or slow-cooked to perfection, these recipes are sure to satisfy your craving for deliciousness!
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