Salads are a staple in many households as they are a quick, easy, and healthy meal option. They can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary requirements, making them a versatile choice for any meal. One ingredient that adds a burst of flavor and color to salads is cherry tomatoes. These small, juicy tomatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene. Here are some tips to help you make the most of cherry tomatoes in your salads.

Characteristics of a Cherry Tomato

A cherry tomato is a type of small tomato that some people think is an intermediate genetic admixture between wild current type tomatoes and domesticated garden tomatoes.

Size of a Cherry Tomato

They range in size from a peanut all the up to the size of a ping pong ball

Color of a Cherry Tomato

Usually a cherry tomato is red but other colors include yellow, green and black

Cherry Tomatoes Products

• Easy Fruit Slicer Tomato Grape Cherry Slicers
• AeroGarden Red Heirloom Cherry Tomato Seed Pod Kit
• Lemon Drop Tomato Seeds
• bingxqiso Tomato Slicer Grape Slicer
• K-Brands Tomato Cage
• SLICEX Vegetable Slicing Guide
• Staub Cast Iron 3-qt Tomato Cocotte
• Artificial Cherry Tomatoes
• 4 Pack Grape Cutters Cherry Tomato Slicers
• Rapid Slicer, Food Cutter

History of the Cherry Tomato

Dating back to 1623, the cherry tomato is believed to be the direct ancestor of modern cultivated tomato and is the only wild tomato which is found outside South America. Believed to be first discovered in the Puebla-Varacruz area of Mexico.

My favorite Cherry Tomato salads are below. They include

1. Avocados
2. Cucumbers
3. Green Beans and Feta
4. Mozzarella
5. Bocconcini
6. White Beans
7. Corn
8. Green Beans
9. Pine Nuts

Salads with cherry tomatoes and avocados : Delish.com

Salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers : Preciouscore

Salads with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella (caprese salad) : Iheart Naptime

Salads with cherry tomatoes, green beans and feta : Peas and Crayons

17. Easy Healthy Recipes : Cherry Tomato Salad 

16. Tastes Better From Scratch : Tomato Cucumber Salad 

15. Dinner At The Zoo : Cucumber Tomato Salad 

14. Taste of Home : Cherry Tomato Salad 

13. Meridian Farm Market : Tomato Bocconcini Salad 

12 2 Sisters Recipes : Spring Tomato Basil Bocconcini 

11. Seeking Good Eats : Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes 

10 Simply Recipes : White Beans and Cherry Tomato Salad 

9. I Heart Naptime : Caprese Salad 

8. Cookie and Kate : Easy Tomato Salad Recipe 

7. Café Delites : Avocado Corn Tomato Salad

 

6. Cooking Classy : Tomato Salad 

5. Veg Recipes of India : Cherry Tomato Salad 

4. Salty Side Dish : Green Bean Salad 

3. Eat Well 101 : Marinated Cherry Tomato Salad 

2. Peas and Crayons : Cherry Tomato Salad 

1 Bon Appetit : Tomato Salad with Pine Nuts and Pomegranate Molasses 

Choose Ripe and Firm Cherry Tomatoes

When buying cherry tomatoes, it is essential to choose ones that are ripe and firm. Look for tomatoes that are bright red and have a slight give when pressed. Avoid ones that are too soft or have bruises, as they may not have the best taste. Ripe cherry tomatoes are bursting with flavor, making them perfect for adding to salads.

Mix Different Colors and Sizes

Cherry tomatoes come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, and orange. Mixing different colors adds visual interest to your salad and makes it more appealing. You can also mix different sizes, such as grape and cherry tomatoes, to add texture to your salad. Just make sure to cut larger tomatoes in half to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Grill or Roast for Added Flavor

While cherry tomatoes are delicious raw, roasting or grilling them can take their flavor to the next level. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, making them perfect for adding to salads. To roast cherry tomatoes, toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 400°F, or until they are slightly charred. Grilling cherry tomatoes also adds a smoky flavor, making them a great addition to any salad.

Pair Them with Fresh Herbs

Cherry tomatoes pair well with fresh herbs, adding an extra layer of flavor to your salad. Some herbs that go well with cherry tomatoes are basil, parsley, and cilantro. You can either chop the herbs and mix them in with the tomatoes or make a simple herb vinaigrette to drizzle over the salad.

Use Them to Make a Simple Salsa

Another way to incorporate cherry tomatoes in your salad is by making a simple salsa. Diced cherry tomatoes mixed with onions, jalapenos, lime juice, and cilantro make a delicious salsa that can be used as a dressing for your salad. It adds a zesty and tangy flavor to your salad and is perfect for those who love a bit of heat.

Add Them To Pasta Salads

Cherry tomatoes are a perfect addition to pasta salads. Not only do they add a burst of color, but they also provide a refreshing burst of flavor. You can mix them in with your favorite pasta, vegetables, and dressing for a quick and easy lunch or dinner option.

Don’t Forget the Salt and Pepper

As with any salad, seasoning is key. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper over your cherry tomatoes before adding them to your salad. This will help bring out their natural flavors and make them even more delicious.

In conclusion, cherry tomatoes are a versatile and tasty addition to any salad. Whether you choose to use them raw or cooked, they add a burst of flavor, color, and nutrients to your meal. With these tips, you can elevate your salad game and create delicious, healthy, and visually appealing dishes. So next time you’re making a salad, don’t forget to add some cherry tomatoes for that extra touch of flavor

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