Diced tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many kitchens, and for good reason. They add a burst of juicy flavor to everything from soups to salads, pasta dishes to pizzas. But sometimes it can be hard to come up with new and creative ways to use them. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of diced tomatoes.
From spicy soups to savory pasta dishes, and even sweet breakfast scrambles, there’s something for everyone in this list. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for quick and easy meals, or an adventurous foodie seeking out new flavors to try, these recipes are sure to inspire.
In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouthwatering dishes, exploring the ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentation ideas that make them truly special. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to get cooking!
Spicy Tomato and Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the spiciness of peppers and the earthiness of black beans, making it a perfect comfort food for any season.
Ingredients:
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the bell pepper and garlic in a little water until tender.
2. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in 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.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Diced Tomatoes
A flavorful and aromatic shrimp dish that combines the richness of garlic butter with the sweetness of diced tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Salsa with Fresh Diced Tomatoes
This vibrant salsa recipe uses fresh diced tomatoes as its base, adding a burst of flavor and color to any dish. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy this delicious condiment with your favorite chips, tacos, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh diced tomatoes (any variety, such as Roma, Cherry, or Heirloom)
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture, followed by the salt and black pepper.
3. Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy condiment that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Experience the simplicity of Italian flavors with this classic bruschetta recipe. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella combine to create a delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Brush toasted bread with the tomato mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top each slice with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Tomato Basil Bruschetta!
Chicken and Tomato Coconut Curry
This flavorful curry combines tender chicken, sweet tomatoes, and creamy coconut milk, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Tomato and Cucumber Salad
Mediterranean Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the simplicity of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.
2. Add the pitted olives, crumbled feta cheese (if using), olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
One-Pan Tomato and Sausage Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines juicy sausage, flavorful tomatoes, and tender penne in a single pan, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, garlic, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in cooked pasta, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Moist and flavorful chicken breasts stuffed with a savory mix of tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese make for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the tomato-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Shakshuka with Diced Tomatoes
Elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful and effortless Shakshuka recipe, featuring sweet and tangy diced tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Create 4 wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato and Corn Quesadillas
Add a burst of summer flavor to your meal with these Tomato and Corn Quesadillas. Savor the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and corn, combined with the creaminess of melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup fresh tomato, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together diced tomatoes and corn kernels.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the tomato-corn mixture and half of the shredded cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Tomato Beef Stew
This hearty slow cooker stew is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch option. Tender beef, juicy tomatoes, and flavorful spices come together to create a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Tomato and Avocado Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional scrambled eggs. This recipe combines the freshness of tomatoes and avocados with the richness of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well-beaten.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the diced tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the whisked eggs and scramble them with the tomatoes until almost set.
5. Stir in the diced avocado and cook for an additional minute.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and let it melt.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pesto Tomato Flatbread Pizza
This flavorful pizza combines the classic combination of pesto, tomatoes, and mozzarella on a crispy flatbread crust. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 flatbread (about 10 inches in diameter)
– 2 tbsp pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread on a floured surface to desired thickness.
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices on top of the pesto.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tomato and Chickpea Coconut Curry
This vibrant curry is a perfect blend of Indian flavors, with the warmth of coconut milk and spices balancing the tanginess of tomatoes and chickpeas. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Grilled Tomato and Mozzarella Panini
A classic Italian-inspired sandwich that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rustic bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the bread slices with olive oil and toast until lightly browned.
3. Top each slice of toasted bread with a tomato slice, a mozzarella cheese slice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Grill the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Tips:
– Use ripe but firm tomatoes for best flavor.
– Let the sandwich rest for a minute before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Tomato and Lentil Soup with Herbs
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the creaminess of lentils, and the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a nourishing lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato and Basil Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, basil, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time)
Baked Eggs with Diced Tomatoes and Feta
Elevate your breakfast game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of eggs, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the tanginess of feta. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Add the egg mixture to the baking dish, followed by the tomato mixture.
6. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the eggs are set and the feta is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 18 mouthwatering recipes featuring diced tomatoes as a star ingredient! From soups to salads, pasta dishes to breakfast scrambles, and even pizzas and paninis, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how simple it is to add flavor and nutrition to your meals with the versatility of diced tomatoes. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, savory, or sweet, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking!