Cherokee Purple tomatoes are a gardener’s and foodie’s dream come true. Known for their rich, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor, these heirloom tomatoes boast a stunning deep purplish-red color that adds a beautiful rustic charm to any dish.
Whether fresh from the garden or purchased at a market, their juicy flesh and complex taste make them perfect for a variety of recipes. From refreshing salads to hearty sauces, these tomatoes transform everyday meals into culinary delights.
Today, we’ll explore several recipes that highlight the unique qualities of Cherokee Purple tomatoes, giving you a chance to enjoy their flavor in innovative and delicious ways.
If you’ve been wondering how to best savor these gorgeous tomatoes, you’ll find inspiration here. Plus, we’ll share tips on preparation, variations, and nutrition information to help you make the most of your harvest or purchase.
Dive into the world of Cherokee Purple tomatoes with these flavorful recipes perfect for summer and beyond.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cherokee Purple tomatoes offer a flavor profile unlike any other tomato variety. Their balance of sweetness and acidity, combined with a meaty texture, means they hold up well in cooking while also shining bright in fresh applications.
These recipes are designed to maximize the tomato’s natural qualities without overwhelming them, ensuring that every bite bursts with juicy, smoky, and slightly earthy notes.
Additionally, Cherokee Purples are versatile. Whether you want a quick snack, a side dish, or a centerpiece, these recipes cater to all occasions.
Expect vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and simple techniques that celebrate seasonal produce. Plus, incorporating these tomato dishes into your meal plan means adding a dose of antioxidants and vitamins, making your meals both tasty and nutritious.
Ingredients
Fresh Cherokee Purple Tomato Caprese Salad
- 3 large Cherokee Purple tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Slow-Roasted Cherokee Purple Tomato Sauce
- 6-8 large Cherokee Purple tomatoes, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
Grilled Cherokee Purple Tomato Sandwich
- 4 slices hearty bread (sourdough or ciabatta work well)
- 2 large Cherokee Purple tomatoes, sliced
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise or vegan mayo
- 4 leaves fresh lettuce
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for grilling
Equipment
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Small saucepan
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Spoon and spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Serving plates
Instructions
Fresh Cherokee Purple Tomato Caprese Salad
- Wash and slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Slice the fresh mozzarella</strong to similar thickness as the tomatoes.
- Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a serving plate, layering basil leaves between them.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze evenly over the arranged slices.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
Slow-Roasted Cherokee Purple Tomato Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the quartered tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves on a large baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle oregano, basil, salt, and pepper evenly.
- Roast the tomatoes in the oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring halfway through, until they are soft and concentrated.
- While the tomatoes roast, sauté the onion in a saucepan with a bit of olive oil over medium heat until translucent.
- Add the roasted tomatoes and garlic to the saucepan along with tomato paste, if using.
- Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, mashing the tomatoes with a spoon to create a smooth sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving over pasta, rice, or as a dip.
Grilled Cherokee Purple Tomato Sandwich
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush olive oil on both sides of the bread slices.
- Grill the bread slices until golden and slightly charred, about 2 minutes per side.
- Spread mayonnaise on one side of each grilled bread slice.
- Layer lettuce, sliced avocado, and thick slices of Cherokee Purple tomato on two slices of the bread.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, mayo side down.
- Slice in half and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
“To get the most flavor from your Cherokee Purple tomatoes, always use ripe tomatoes and avoid over-handling to preserve their juicy texture.”
Tip 1: When slicing tomatoes for salads or sandwiches, use a serrated knife to avoid crushing the delicate flesh.
Tip 2: For the roasted sauce, you can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an earthy twist.
Variation: Try adding crumbled goat cheese or vegan feta to the Caprese salad for a tangy contrast.
Variation: For a vegan version of the grilled sandwich, swap mayonnaise for hummus or avocado spread.
Tip 3: Leftover roasted tomato sauce freezes beautifully in small airtight containers, making meal prep a breeze.
Nutrition Facts
| Recipe | Calories (per serving) | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caprese Salad | 220 | 8g | 14g | 16g | 2g |
| Slow-Roasted Tomato Sauce | 90 | 12g | 2g | 4g | 3g |
| Grilled Tomato Sandwich | 350 | 35g | 8g | 16g | 5g |
Serving Suggestions
The Caprese salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread or alongside a light pasta dish. It also makes a refreshing appetizer at summer barbecues or picnics.
For a vegan twist, check out the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for complementary flavors.
The slow-roasted tomato sauceVegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food to add a rich tomato base.
The grilled tomato sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Serve it with a side of soup or a crisp green salad, such as the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
Cherokee Purple tomatoes are truly a standout ingredient in any kitchen. Their unique flavor and attractive appearance make them ideal for a wide range of recipes, from fresh salads to slow-cooked sauces and comforting sandwiches.
By focusing on simple preparations that let their natural sweetness and depth shine, you can elevate everyday meals effortlessly.
Whether you’re growing these tomatoes yourself or lucky enough to find them at your local market, these recipes offer creative and satisfying ways to enjoy their bounty. Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs, cheeses, or spices to make these dishes your own.
With their rich nutrition and incredible taste, Cherokee Purple tomatoes deserve a special place on your plate all year round.
📖 Recipe Card: Cherokee Purple Tomato Salad
Description: A fresh and vibrant salad showcasing the rich flavor of Cherokee Purple tomatoes. Perfect for a light appetizer or side dish.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large Cherokee Purple tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Arrange tomato slices on a serving plate.
- Sprinkle basil leaves and red onion over tomatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar evenly on top.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
- Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 8 g
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