When you think of tomatoes, you might automatically assume they’re ripe and red. But what about when they’re green? Green tomatoes are a treasure trove of flavor and texture, just waiting to be explored in the kitchen! In this article, we’ll dive into the world of crispy delights with 18 tangy green tomato recipes that will revolutionize your cooking routine.
From classic Southern dishes like fried green tomatoes to innovative twists on traditional recipes, these green gems offer a burst of freshness and excitement. Whether you’re looking for something savory, sweet, or spicy, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Fried Green Tomatoes with Spicy Remoulade
Fried Green Tomatoes with Spicy Remoulade Recipe
A Southern classic gets a spicy kick with this recipe that combines crispy fried green tomatoes with a creamy remoulade sauce infused with hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)
Spicy Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tomatoes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Drain fried tomatoes on paper towels and serve hot with Spicy Remoulade Sauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes for frying the tomatoes. Serve immediately.
Green Tomato Chutney with Ginger and Raisins
This vibrant chutney is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, making it an excellent condiment for your favorite dishes. It’s a great way to use up green tomatoes that are too ripe or imperfect for eating raw.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped green tomatoes, grated ginger, raisins, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney has thickened and reduced slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Salsa Verde
This vibrant green salsa is a perfect way to use up unripe tomatoes, combining their tanginess with the brightness of herbs and spices. Serve it with tortilla chips or use as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes (unripe), diced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine green tomatoes, parsley, cilantro, garlic, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a raw salsa!
Green Tomato Pie with Cheddar Crust
This savory pie combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the tanginess of cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky crust. Perfect for a comforting dinner or as a side dish at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh green tomatoes, sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine green tomatoes, cheddar cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out the cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper until it forms a flat sheet.
4. Spoon the tomato mixture onto one half of the butter sheet, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the butter sheet over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Crimp the edges to seal and brush with egg wash.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Green Tomato Gazpacho
This recipe takes advantage of the tart flavor of green tomatoes to create a unique and delicious gazpacho. Perfect for warm weather, this cold soup is ideal for a light lunch or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced green tomatoes, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
3. Add chicken broth, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Green Tomato and Bacon Jam
This sweet and savory jam is a perfect condiment for sandwiches, crackers, or as a topping for grilled meats or cheeses. The combination of green tomatoes, crispy bacon, and spices creates a rich and complex flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups green tomatoes (such as Roma or Heirloom), cored and chopped
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped green tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the cooked bacon and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Tomato Relish
This tangy and slightly sweet relish is a perfect way to use up green tomatoes that are past their prime for eating raw. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful condiment that’s great on sandwiches, burgers, or as a topping for grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine green tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is tender and lightly caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in apple cider vinegar and granulated sugar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato and Corn Fritters
A flavorful twist on traditional fritters, this recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the tanginess of green tomatoes for a delicious snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green tomato
– 1/4 cup yellow corn kernels
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cilantro, cheese (if using), green tomato, and corn kernels.
3. Add the vegetable oil and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, perhaps with a side of ranch dressing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a popular breakfast or brunch option that gets a delicious boost from the addition of green tomatoes. This recipe combines the savory flavors of onions, garlic, and bell peppers with the tanginess of green tomatoes for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 4-6 green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize (about 8 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the green tomatoes and stir to combine.
5. Create 2-3 wells in the mixture and add a spoonful of tomato paste to each well.
6. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Tomato and Pepper Stir-Fry
A vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that combines the freshness of green tomatoes with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized green tomatoes, sliced into thin wedges
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the green tomatoes and bell peppers. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Tomato Bread with Walnuts
This savory bread combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a rustic snack or accompaniment to your favorite soups and stews. The addition of herbs and spices adds depth and warmth to this delightful loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated green tomato (about 2-3 medium-sized tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add grated green tomato, chopped walnuts, olive oil, parsley, and thyme. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Tomato and Onion Bhaji
A twist on traditional onion bhajis, this recipe combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the pungency of onions for a delicious and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the chickpea flour, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the diced green tomatoes and thinly sliced onions to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Tomato Caprese Salad
This refreshing salad is a creative twist on the classic caprese, featuring crisp green tomatoes instead of ripe red ones. Perfect for using up unripe tomatoes and adding a pop of color to your plate.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the green tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad in a zigzag pattern.
4. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the salad, starting from one end and working your way across.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served immediately, so feel free to assemble it just before serving.
Green Tomato and Shrimp Curry
This vibrant curry combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the tender flavor of shrimp, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium green tomatoes, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 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. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until they start to brown, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, shrimp, and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Tomato Pickles with Mustard Seeds
These pickles are a delicious way to use up green tomatoes and add a burst of flavor to your meals. The mustard seeds add a nice crunch and a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– 1/2 tsp (2.5g) mustard seeds
– 1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced green tomatoes and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Drain the tomato slices and rinse them with cold water.
3. In a saucepan, bring vinegar, water, sugar, mustard seeds, and black pepper to a boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the pickling liquid has thickened slightly.
5. Pack the tomato slices into clean glass jars, leaving about 1/2 inch (1cm) headspace. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes for pickling liquid, then chilled in the refrigerator before serving.
Green Tomato and Zucchini Gratin
This sweet and savory gratin is the perfect way to use up your summer’s bounty of green tomatoes and zucchinis. With its creamy bechamel sauce, crispy breadcrumbs, and caramelized vegetables, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the sliced green tomatoes and zucchinis; cook for 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of cooked vegetables, followed by a layer of sauce. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Green Tomato and Apple Chutney
This vibrant chutney is perfect for serving alongside grilled meats, naan bread, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. The combination of green tomatoes, crisp apples, and spices creates a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, green tomatoes, apple, brown sugar, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Tomato and Avocado Tartine
A refreshing twist on the classic tartine, this recipe combines the sweetness of ripe avocados with the tanginess of green tomatoes for a perfect summer snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the tomato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices until lightly browned.
6. Spread mashed avocado on each toasted bread round.
7. Top with roasted tomato slices and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: Warm or at room temperature. Perfect as a light lunch, snack, or appetizer.
Summary
Get ready to savor the tangy flavor of green tomatoes! In this article, we’re excited to share 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of these crispy delights. From classic Southern-style fried green tomatoes with spicy remoulade to innovative dishes like green tomato and shrimp curry, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a sweet and tangy chutney or a savory pie crust, our collection of recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.