Author: Amy Riley

This Tomato Fried Rice is a delightful twist on traditional fried rice, incorporating the rich flavours of tomatoes and aromatic spices. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and create a tasty and wholesome meal in no time. Enjoy the comfort and deliciousness of this easy-to-make Tomato Fried Rice!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold or at least cooled)
• 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Method:

1. Heat the Vegetable Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions to the hot oil and sauté until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, and paprika. Cook the tomatoes until they soften and release their juices.
4. Incorporate the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix well with the tomatoes and onions. Make sure the rice is coated with the tomato juices and spices.
5. Season the Fried Rice: Drizzle soy sauce and tomato paste over the rice and mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavours. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the Peas: Toss in the thawed peas and continue to cook the fried rice for a few more minutes until the peas are heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish the Tomato Fried Rice with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness and colour.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Tomato Fried Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or served as a side dish to accompany your favourite Asian-inspired main courses.

This Greek Salad is a classic Mediterranean dish that celebrates the fresh and vibrant flavours of ripe tomatoes and other wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for hot summer days or any time you want a healthy and satisfying salad option. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavours in this delicious Greek Salad!

 Ingredients:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks or wedges
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Method:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut the tomatoes into bite-sized chunks or wedges. Slice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion into thin slices. Place all the vegetables in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the Olives and Feta: Add the pitted Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the vegetables. The briny olives and creamy feta will add a burst of flavour to the salad.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. The dressing should be tangy with a hint of herbaceousness.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to crush the feta cheese while tossing.
5. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish the Greek Salad with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of colour and added freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Greek Salad with Tomatoes immediately as a light and refreshing appetizer or as a side dish to accompany your favourite Greek main courses, such as grilled lamb, chicken souvlaki, or moussaka.

Fried Green Tomatoes are a Southern American delicacy, and their crispy, tangy flavour is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or a unique addition to a sandwich or burger, these fried tomatoes are a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 4 green tomatoes, firm and unripe
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
• 1 cup cornmeal or breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Method:

1. Slice the Green Tomatoes: Cut the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. Remove any stems or tough cores.
2. Prepare the Dredging Station: In three separate shallow dishes, set up the dredging station. In the first dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs with the buttermilk. Place the cornmeal or breadcrumbs in the third dish.
3. Dredge the Tomato Slices: Working one slice at a time, coat each tomato slice in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tomato slice in the cornmeal or breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 175°C. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and turns golden brown, the oil is hot enough.
5. Fry the Tomato Slices: Carefully place the coated tomato slices into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the tomatoes for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried tomatoes from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Fried Green Tomatoes while they’re still warm and crispy. They are delicious on their own or with a side of remoulade sauce, ranch dressing, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavour.

This vibrant salad combines the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, the crisp and refreshing texture of jicama, the creamy richness of avocado, and the zesty kick of lime. The combination of flavours and textures creates a perfect balance for a delightful summer salad.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized tomatoes, preferably heirloom, sliced
• 1 small jicama, peeled and cut into matchsticks
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large serving bowl, arrange the sliced tomatoes, jicama matchsticks, avocado slices, and red onion slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the tomato salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro leaves over the salad for added freshness and flavour.
5. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
6. Serve the Summer Tomato Salad with Jicama and Avocado as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch option.

This Tomato Lemonade is a fantastic way to use fresh tomatoes and create a refreshing drink that’s perfect for the hot summer days. The tanginess of tomatoes and the zesty brightness of lemons create a delightful and unexpected flavour combination. Sip and savour the invigorating taste of this homemade tomato lemonade!

Ingredients:

• 4 large tomatoes
• 2 lemons
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh basil or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Wash the tomatoes and lemons thoroughly. Cut the tomatoes into quarters and squeeze the juice from the lemons.
2. In a blender, combine the tomato quarters and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
3. Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a pitcher or bowl. Pour the blended mixture through the strainer, pressing down with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard any pulp or seeds left behind.
4. Add water to the strained tomato and lemon juice mixture. Stir well.
5. Gradually add sugar to the mixture, tasting as you go to achieve your desired sweetness. Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference.
6. Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the tomato lemonade over the ice.
7. Stir the drink to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved and well-incorporated.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or mint leaves, if desired, for added aroma and visual appeal.
9. Serve the Tomato Lemonade chilled and enjoy the unique combination of flavours.

If you’re looking for the perfect dish to add a Spanish taste to your summer, this is the perfect meal for you! The combination of tuna, marinated tomatoes, olives, and capers gives this pasta salad a delightful Spanish twist. The smoky paprika adds a hint of warmth, and the fresh parsley provides a burst of freshness. Enjoy the flavours and textures of this vibrant and flavourful dish!

• 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
• 1 can (5 ounces/140 grams) tuna, drained and flaked
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, flaked tuna, cherry tomatoes, red onion, green olives, capers, and fresh parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve the Spanish-Style Pasta Salad chilled as a refreshing and satisfying dish for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch option.

This tomato and goat cheese tart makes for a delightful appetiser or a light lunch option. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and flaky puff pastry creates a harmonious blend of flavours. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, sliced
• 4 ounces (113 grams) goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled-out pastry onto the prepared baking sheet.
3. Prick the surface of the puff pastry with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the olive oil mixture evenly over the surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the pastry, distributing it evenly.
7. Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the goat cheese, overlapping them slightly.
8. Season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper.
9. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
10. Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the top for added freshness and flavour.
11. Slice the tomato and goat cheese tart into squares or wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.