There’s something truly magical about a simple and delicious tomato recipe, isn’t there? Tomatoes are like the little stars of the kitchen—so versatile and bursting with flavor! Whether you’re tossing them in a salad, simmering them for a sauce, or just enjoying them fresh, they add a vibrant touch to any meal. I’m always amazed at how just a few ripe tomatoes can transform a dish, bringing warmth and brightness in every bite. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying, yet packed with that fresh tomato goodness. Trust me, once you try this easy tomato dish, you’ll find yourself reaching for tomatoes more often than you ever thought possible!

Ingredients List

Gather these ingredients to whip up this delightful tomato recipe that’s as simple as it is delicious!

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced: The star of the show! Make sure they’re juicy and full of flavor for the best results.
• 1 onion, chopped: A sweet onion works wonders here, adding depth and richness to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a fragrant kick that elevates the whole dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for that lovely, rich flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: This helps to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little spice goes a long way to brighten up those tomatoes.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds an aromatic herbaceous note that’s classic in Italian cooking.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: This balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.

Once you’ve got all this together, you’re just moments away from creating a dish that bursts with freshness! Enjoy the cooking process and remember, it’s all about those simple, quality ingredients coming together.

How to Prepare This Tomato Recipe

Now that we have all our fresh ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: cooking! This tomato recipe is straightforward and rewarding, and I promise you’ll love how the flavors come together. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. I love this step because the oil starts to warm, and you can just smell that rich aroma filling the kitchen!
2. Next, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion turns translucent—about 3 to 5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; the sweetness from the onion and the fragrant garlic is key to building flavor!
3. Now it’s time to add in those diced tomatoes! Toss them into the pan along with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Give everything a good stir to mix all those lovely ingredients together.
4. Let it all simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens, and you’ll start to see the tomatoes break down and create a delightful sauce. It’s such a comforting sight!
5. Once the time’s up, remove the pan from the heat and serve warm. You can already tell it’s going to be good—just look at that vibrant color!

And there you have it! A simple and delicious tomato recipe that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the beautiful flavors and let them inspire your next meal!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this simple and delicious tomato recipe! This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also offers a balance of essential nutrients. Here’s the estimated breakdown based on the ingredients used:

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 120
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, this recipe is a fantastic choice for a healthy side dish! Enjoy knowing you’re nourishing your body with fresh, wholesome ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Recipe

• Quick and Easy: It takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to whip up something delicious in a hurry.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe, juicy tomatoes means you’ll get that vibrant flavor that only comes from fresh produce—trust me, it makes a world of difference!
• Versatile Pairing: This dish is a fantastic side that pairs beautifully with pasta, grilled meats, or even on a slice of crusty bread. It can elevate any meal!
• Healthful Goodness: Packed with vitamins and low in calories, it’s a guilt-free addition to your table that nourishes your body while satisfying your taste buds.
• Simple Steps: The straightforward instructions mean you don’t need to be a culinary expert to achieve something that looks and tastes amazing.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices to suit your taste! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or fresh basil for a burst of freshness.

Honestly, this tomato recipe is a game-changer, and I can’t wait for you to try it! It’s all about the simplicity and that incredible fresh flavor that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Tips for Success

Ready to take this simple and delicious tomato recipe to the next level? Here are some pro tips that’ll help you master the dish and avoid common pitfalls!

• Choose the Right Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom varieties are a fantastic choice if you can find them—they’re bursting with sweetness!
• Don’t Rush the Sauté: Allowing the onions and garlic to sauté until they’re perfectly translucent is crucial. This step builds a flavorful base, so take your time!
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs to match your preference. If the tomatoes are too acidic, a touch more sugar can help balance things out.
• Experiment with Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, toss some in just before serving. It brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color!
• Let It Sit: If you have a minute, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delightful!
• Use Leftovers Creatively: If you have any leftovers, try using them in an omelette, mixed into pasta, or as a topping for bruschetta. You’ll be amazed at how versatile this dish can be!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a tomato dish that’s not just good, but absolutely fantastic! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Variations

Now, if you’re like me and love to mix things up in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know that this simple and delicious tomato recipe is super adaptable! Here are some fun variations you can try to keep your meals exciting:

• Herb Explosion: Swap out the dried basil for fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano. Fresh herbs can really elevate the flavor profile and bring a burst of color!
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when you’re sautéing the onions and garlic. It’ll give your dish a nice zing!
• Veggie Medley: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers along with the tomatoes. They add texture and flavor while making the dish even more nutritious.
• Protein Boost: For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chickpeas or white beans to the mix. They’ll not only enhance the taste but also add some satisfying protein!
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top just before serving. Let it melt for an extra layer of deliciousness!
• Sweet Twist: A dash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil can add a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the tomatoes.

Feel free to experiment with these variations or even come up with your own! Cooking should be fun and creative, so don’t hesitate to make this dish your own. Each twist will give you a unique flavor profile that keeps things fresh and exciting at the dinner table!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this simple and delicious tomato recipe, let’s talk about how to serve it up for maximum enjoyment! This dish is super versatile and can complement a variety of meals. Here are some of my favorite pairing ideas:

• Pasta Perfection: Serve this tomato dish over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta. It makes for a light yet satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug!
• Crusty Bread: Grab a loaf of fresh, crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce. It’s the perfect way to savor every last drop of flavor!
• Grilled Meats: This tomato recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. The fresh, zesty flavors balance out the richness of grilled proteins.
• Salads: Add a scoop of this tomato blend on top of a mixed greens salad for a burst of flavor. It makes for a refreshing side that brightens up any plate!
• Omelettes: For a unique twist, try spooning this tomato dish into an omelette or frittata. It adds a delightful burst of flavor and makes for a fantastic breakfast or brunch option!
• Rice or Quinoa Bowls: Mix this tomato medley into a rice or quinoa bowl for a hearty dish. Top it with some avocado or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll elevate your meal experience and fully enjoy the vibrant flavors of this tomato recipe. Trust me, it’s all about pairing it with the right sides to create a truly memorable feast!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious tomato recipe, and now you’ve got some leftovers—what a win! Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy those vibrant flavors later. Trust me, you definitely don’t want to waste any of that goodness!

To store your leftover tomato dish, let it cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent any funky fridge smells from sneaking in!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. I recommend warming it up on the stovetop over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep things moist and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. This helps retain that fresh flavor and keeps the texture nice!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it lightly (to avoid splatters!), and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until hot. Easy peasy!

And there you have it! Enjoy those leftovers as if it’s the first time—because let’s be honest, they’ll taste just as amazing!

Tomato Recipe: 5 Simple Steps to Deliciousness

---

• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A simple and delicious tomato recipe perfect for any meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent.
3. Add diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, basil, and sugar.
4. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

• Use fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste.
• This can be served with pasta or bread.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: tomato recipe, easy tomato dish, fresh tomato cooking