As summer comes to a close, our gardens are overflowing with ripe and ready tomatoes. But what about those pesky green tomatoes that didn’t quite make it to the red zone? Don’t let them go to waste! Green tomatoes can be just as delicious as their ripe counterparts, especially when used in creative recipes that showcase their tangy flavor.
From crispy fried delights to savory curries and sweet pies, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering green tomato recipes that will make you rethink the humble green tomato. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick or sweet treats, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative with your green tomatoes, and discover a whole new world of flavor!
Fried Green Tomatoes with Spicy Remoulade
A classic Southern dish gets a kick with this spicy remoulade sauce, perfect for a summer evening or as a side to your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Remoulade Sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge tomato slices in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry tomatoes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with Spicy Remoulade Sauce.
Spicy Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Sriracha)
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of tomatoes.
Green Tomato Chutney with Ginger and Raisins
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect condiment to add flavor to your Indian dishes, from naan breads to curries. The combination of green tomatoes, ginger, and raisins creates a unique and delicious taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped tomatoes, grated ginger, brown sugar, raisins, vinegar, salt, and cumin.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld together (about 30-40 minutes).
3. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Tomato Salsa Verde with Cilantro and Lime
This vibrant salsa verde recipe transforms green tomatoes into a tangy and fresh condiment, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. With the brightness of lime juice and the pungency of cilantro, this salsa is sure to elevate your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves and stems, chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine green tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic.
2. Blend until coarsely chopped, leaving some texture intact.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes
Green Tomato Pie with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of this unique pie, perfect for using up green tomatoes from your garden or local market. This recipe combines the freshness of green tomatoes with the warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sliced green tomatoes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine green tomatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Fill the pie crust with the tomato mixture and dot with butter pieces.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit top of pie. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over pie crust and cut a few slits for steam release.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Tomato Gazpacho with Cucumber and Basil
Perfect for hot summer days, this vibrant gazpacho is a twist on the classic Spanish soup. Green tomatoes add a tangy flavor and crunchy texture, while cucumber and basil provide a refreshing and herbaceous note.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine green tomatoes, cucumber, basil, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding vegetable broth as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Pour gazpacho mixture into the pan and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Tomato Relish with Mustard Seeds and Turmeric
This vibrant relish adds a burst of flavor to sandwiches, wraps, and snacks. With the warmth of mustard seeds and turmeric, it’s perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup mustard seeds
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine chopped green tomatoes, mustard seeds, turmeric, red onion, and garlic.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld together (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato and Bacon Jam
This sweet and smoky jam is a game-changer for using up green tomatoes! It’s perfect as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or as a dip for crackers.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups green tomatoes (about 2 lbs), chopped
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine green tomatoes, crumbled bacon, onion, and garlic.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is tender and caramelized (about 30 minutes).
3. Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the jam has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Tomato Curry with Coconut Milk
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a delicious way to use up unripe green tomatoes. The coconut milk adds a creamy richness, while the spices provide a warm and aromatic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 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. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne (if using); cook 1 minute.
4. Add green tomatoes; cook until they start to soften.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Fritters with Garlic Aioli
Experience the perfect blend of crispy and tangy with these delicious green tomato fritters, paired with a rich garlic aioli for dipping. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Aioli (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add diced green tomatoes and stir until coated.
3. Pour in buttermilk and mix until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the batter into the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels.
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve with warm fritters.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of the fritters)
Green Tomato and Corn Casserole
This casserole is a delicious way to use up green tomatoes and fresh corn, perfect for a summer gathering or potluck. The combination of tender vegetables, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups sliced green tomatoes
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add green tomatoes and corn; cook until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add tomato mixture. Top with cheese and melted butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Tomato Tarte Tatin with Goat Cheese
This twist on the classic French dessert brings together the sweetness of caramelized green tomatoes and the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced green tomatoes and cook until they start to caramelize, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
4. Arrange tomato slices in a spiral pattern on the prepared pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle sugar and goat cheese crumbles evenly over the tomatoes.
6. Roll out remaining pastry to fit the skillet or baking dish, and place it on top of the filling.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Tomato and Shrimp Gumbo
This classic Louisiana dish combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the succulence of shrimp, all wrapped up in a spicy and savory gumbo. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium green tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
5. Gradually add fish stock, diced tomatoes, and green tomatoes; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Bread with Walnuts and Cinnamon
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of green tomatoes with the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a snack or side dish, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 green tomatoes, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Beat in eggs, then stir in diced green tomatoes, cinnamon, and walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Green Tomato Pickles with Dill and Garlic
Add a tangy twist to your meals with these easy-to-make green tomato pickles infused with the flavors of dill and garlic. Perfect as a snack or side dish, they’re a delicious way to enjoy the last of summer’s harvest.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups sliced green tomatoes (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh dill
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 tsp 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 with cold water.
3. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, dill, garlic, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Pack the tomato slices into clean glass jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes, ensuring they’re fully covered.
5. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: None (refrigerate for 2-3 weeks to allow flavors to meld)
Green Tomato and Pepper Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that highlights the sweet and tangy flavors of green tomatoes and bell peppers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 1 large bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced green tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad
This refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of basil. Perfect for a light and flavorful summer meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, making sure each component is coated.
4. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (this salad is best served fresh and at room temperature)
Green Tomato and Pork Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the richness of pork, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork cubes in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced green tomatoes, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned pork cubes to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Green Tomato Cobbler with Cornmeal Crust
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional cobblers, this recipe showcases the flavor of green tomatoes paired with a crunchy cornmeal crust. Perfect for using up unripe tomatoes before they turn red!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced green tomatoes, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Roll out the cornmeal to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on top of the tomato mixture.
4. Drizzle melted butter and heavy cream over the cornmeal crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the tangy sweetness of green tomatoes! This article presents 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of this underrated ingredient. From crispy delights like Fried Green Tomatoes with Spicy Remoulade and Green Tomato Fritters with Garlic Aioli, to sweet treats like Green Tomato Pie with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar and Green Tomato Cobbler with Cornmeal Crust, there’s something for everyone. Plus, discover flavorful twists on classic dishes like Green Tomato Curry with Coconut Milk and Green Tomato and Shrimp Gumbo. Treat your taste buds to a world of green tomato goodness!