Campari tomatoes, with their vibrant red hue and naturally sweet, juicy flavor, are a delightful ingredient to elevate your dishes. These petite tomatoes are perfect for recipes that call for fresh, flavorful bursts of tomato goodness without the acidity or seedy mess of larger varieties.
Whether you’re tossing them in salads, roasting them for a rich sauce, or simply enjoying them fresh, Campari tomatoes bring a gourmet touch to everyday meals.
In this post, we’ll explore a variety of delicious recipes featuring Campari tomatoes that are easy to prepare, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion. From fresh salads to warm roasted dishes, these recipes highlight the versatility of this charming tomato.
You’ll also find handy tips to get the most out of your tomatoes, along with nutritional insights and serving suggestions to inspire your next meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Campari tomatoes are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Their perfect balance of sweetness and acidity means they can be used in a wide range of dishes, from raw preparations to cooked recipes.
These tomatoes are also less watery than other varieties, making them ideal for sauces and salsas that don’t get diluted.
Using Campari tomatoes in your recipes means you’re incorporating a fresh, natural ingredient that enhances the taste without overpowering other flavors. Plus, they’re rich in antioxidants like lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium, contributing to a healthy diet.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these recipes will help you create vibrant, tasty meals that celebrate the humble yet extraordinary Campari tomato.
Ingredients
- Campari tomatoes – 2 cups, halved or whole depending on recipe
- Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Fresh basil leaves – 1/4 cup, chopped
- Garlic cloves – 2, minced
- Salt – 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground
- Balsamic vinegar – 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Red chili flakes – 1/4 teaspoon (optional for heat)
- Fresh mozzarella – 8 oz, sliced (for salad recipes)
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional garnish)
- Fresh lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
Equipment
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls (medium and small)
- Baking sheet (for roasting recipes)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Large spoon or spatula
- Salad spinner (optional, for washing greens)
- Oven or stovetop
Instructions
Fresh Campari Tomato & Mozzarella Salad
- Wash and halve 2 cups of Campari tomatoes and set aside.
- Slice fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
- In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, mozzarella, and chopped basil.
- Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
- Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Roasted Campari Tomato Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a baking sheet, toss 3 cups of whole Campari tomatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Transfer roasted tomatoes to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Return the sauce to a saucepan, heat gently and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
- Serve the sauce over pasta, grilled vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.
Campari Tomato Bruschetta
- Chop 2 cups of Campari tomatoes into small cubes.
- In a bowl, mix tomatoes with minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toast slices of crusty bread until golden and slightly crisp.
- Top each slice with the tomato mixture and drizzle with a little balsamic glaze if desired.
- Serve immediately as a fresh appetizer or snack.
Tips & Variations
For the freshest taste, always choose firm, brightly colored Campari tomatoes with no blemishes.
Tip: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves alongside the tomatoes before blending to add sweetness and depth.
Variation: Add diced avocado and a squeeze of lime to the bruschetta topping for a creamy twist.
Make it vegan: Skip the mozzarella in the salad and add toasted pine nuts for crunch and protein.
Storage: Fresh Campari tomato salad is best eaten within a few hours but the roasted tomato sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a baking sheet, toss 3 cups of whole Campari tomatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Transfer roasted tomatoes to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Return the sauce to a saucepan, heat gently and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
- Serve the sauce over pasta, grilled vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.
Campari Tomato Bruschetta
- Chop 2 cups of Campari tomatoes into small cubes.
- In a bowl, mix tomatoes with minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toast slices of crusty bread until golden and slightly crisp.
- Top each slice with the tomato mixture and drizzle with a little balsamic glaze if desired.
- Serve immediately as a fresh appetizer or snack.
Tips & Variations
For the freshest taste, always choose firm, brightly colored Campari tomatoes with no blemishes.
Tip: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves alongside the tomatoes before blending to add sweetness and depth.
Variation: Add diced avocado and a squeeze of lime to the bruschetta topping for a creamy twist.
Make it vegan: Skip the mozzarella in the salad and add toasted pine nuts for crunch and protein.
Storage: Fresh Campari tomato salad is best eaten within a few hours but the roasted tomato sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
For the freshest taste, always choose firm, brightly colored Campari tomatoes with no blemishes.
Tip: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves alongside the tomatoes before blending to add sweetness and depth.
Variation: Add diced avocado and a squeeze of lime to the bruschetta topping for a creamy twist.
Make it vegan: Skip the mozzarella in the salad and add toasted pine nuts for crunch and protein.
Storage: Fresh Campari tomato salad is best eaten within a few hours but the roasted tomato sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 90 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 7 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 6 g (mostly from olive oil and mozzarella) |
Fiber | 2 g |
Vitamin C | 18 mg (30% DV) |
Lycopene | High (powerful antioxidant) |
Serving Suggestions
Campari tomatoes shine in simple, fresh dishes but can also complement heartier meals. Serve the fresh tomato and mozzarella salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light summer lunch.
The roasted tomato sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, polenta, or as a base for vegan pizza.
Bruschetta makes for an easy appetizer at dinner parties or a quick snack with a glass of wine. For a nutritious boost, add Campari tomatoes into your favorite grain bowls, or toss them with leafy greens for a vibrant salad.
For more fresh and easy vegan salad ideas, check out our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas. If you love hearty soups, the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food is a fantastic option.
And for a flavorful rice dish, don’t miss the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.
Conclusion
Campari tomatoes are a delightful ingredient that can transform simple meals into something special. Their natural sweetness and vibrant flavor make them incredibly versatile, lending themselves well to fresh salads, savory sauces, and tasty appetizers.
These recipes showcase just how easy it is to incorporate Campari tomatoes into your cooking, whether you’re preparing a quick snack or a full meal.
By using fresh, quality ingredients and following the simple steps outlined, you can enjoy the rich taste and health benefits of Campari tomatoes all year round. Experiment with these recipes, add your own twists, and savor the bright, fresh flavors that Campari tomatoes bring to your table.
📖 Recipe Card: Campari Tomato Salad
Description: A refreshing and simple salad featuring sweet Campari tomatoes with fresh basil and mozzarella. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups Campari tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine halved Campari tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
- Add torn basil leaves to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 6 g
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