Tomato Bread Recipe With Fresh Tomatoes for Summer Meals

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread combined with the vibrant, juicy flavor of ripe tomatoes. Tomato bread, especially when made with fresh tomatoes, is a delightful treat that brings a burst of summer into your kitchen any time of the year.

This recipe is perfect for those who love rustic, homemade bread infused with natural sweetness and subtle tanginess from fresh tomatoes. Whether you’re making it for a cozy breakfast, a snack, or a side to your dinner, this tomato bread is both flavorful and comforting.

This homemade tomato bread recipe is simple, uses fresh, natural ingredients, and yields a soft yet crusty loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or just enjoying with a drizzle of olive oil. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use garden-fresh tomatoes or those juicy tomatoes bought at the farmer’s market.

Let’s dive into the details of why this recipe is a must-try and how you can master it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato bread with fresh tomatoes offers a unique twist on traditional bread baking. The use of fresh tomatoes adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a beautiful color to the loaf.

Unlike dried tomato breads, this recipe stays fresh longer and has an irresistible soft crumb.

Also, this bread is wonderfully versatile. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, from simple vegan spreads to hearty stews.

It’s perfect for summer picnics, casual brunches, or even a comforting dinner side. And because it’s homemade, you control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and additives.

Best of all, this recipe is beginner-friendly. With clear step-by-step instructions and minimal equipment, you’ll be baking artisan-style tomato bread in no time.

Don’t forget to check out some other delicious recipes on our site, like Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a fresh side, or Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a satisfying vegetarian main.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 cup fresh ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scale (optional but recommended)
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Cooling rack
• Knife and chopping board

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to work.
2. Prepare the tomatoes: While waiting for the yeast, wash and finely chop your fresh tomatoes. It’s important to remove excess liquid by lightly pressing the chopped tomatoes with a paper towel or strainer to avoid soggy dough.
3. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, dried oregano (if using), and black pepper. Add the activated yeast mixture, olive oil, and chopped tomatoes. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until the dough starts coming together.
4. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour, but be careful not to add too much to keep the bread soft.
5. First rise: Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape the loaf: Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Shape it into a loaf by folding it into a tight log. Place the shaped dough into a loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Second rise: Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up noticeably.
8. Preheat the oven: About 15 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake the bread: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The crust should be golden and firm. To check doneness, tap the bottom of the loaf – it should sound hollow.
10. Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to preserve its texture.

Tips & Variations

“To add an extra burst of flavor, try folding in fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme along with the tomatoes before kneading.”

For a richer tomato flavor, roast your fresh tomatoes lightly before adding them to the dough. This also reduces moisture and enhances sweetness.

If you want a softer crust, brush the loaf with olive oil right after baking.

Gluten-free bakers can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but add a bit more liquid as gluten-free flours tend to absorb moisture differently. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle vegan cheese on top before baking.

Experiment with additional mix-ins like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions to customize your bread. For a lighter bread, replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This tomato bread is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Simply toasted with a brush of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
• As a sandwich base with fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze.
• Alongside soups like the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.
• Dip in herb-infused olive oil or hummus for a simple appetizer.
• Use it as a side for vibrant salads such as the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Conclusion

Baking fresh tomato bread is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of summer right into your home kitchen. The softness of the bread, combined with the bright, juicy notes of fresh tomatoes, makes this loaf a unique and delicious staple you’ll want to bake again and again.

Its simple ingredients and straightforward method make it accessible for novice bakers, while the delicious results impress even seasoned cooks.

As you experiment with this recipe, remember that fresh ingredients and patience in the rising process are key to a perfect loaf. Whether served warm from the oven or toasted the next day, this tomato bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

For more plant-based inspiration, explore other tasty recipes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or dive into Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals.

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