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21 Ways To Use Fresh Tomato This Summer

If you’re looking for new ways to make the most of tomatoes, this list is full of ideas that go far beyond the usual. From fast soups to simple pastas, there’s something here for every type of home cook, whether you’re short on time or planning a weekend dinner.

These recipes focus on ease without cutting corners on taste. Most can be made with things you already have or can grab on a quick store run. Some are great for busy weeknights, while others give you a chance to slow down and enjoy the process.

Click through and see what you can find. You might find a new favorite dish or at least something tasty to try tonight!

Panera Tomato Soup

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Panera Tomato Soup. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This creamy tomato soup brings that familiar Panera taste straight to your kitchen. Made with everyday ingredients and ready in about 30 minutes, it’s an easy choice for lunch or dinner—especially when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Panera Tomato Soup

Tomato and Burrata Pasta

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Tomato and Burrata Pasta. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This tomato and burrata pasta is a great go-to when tomatoes are in season. With warm pasta, fresh tomatoes, and melty burrata, it’s a 30-minute meal that feels special but stays low-effort.
Get the Recipe: Tomato and Burrata Pasta

Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup

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Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

This comforting beef and macaroni soup is a classic for a reason. It’s filling, easy to prep in any kind of pot, and ready in about an hour. Just like Grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup

Tomato Egg Drop Soup: Classic Chinese Comfort Food

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Tomato Egg Drop Soup: Classic Chinese Comfort Food. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

A quick, one-pot soup that brings together the brightness of tomatoes with soft ribbons of egg in a light broth. It takes just 15 minutes to make and works well as a light lunch or starter.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Egg Drop Soup: Classic Chinese Comfort Food

Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Orzo Bake

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Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Orzo Bake. Photo credit: Life Currents.

This one-pan orzo bake comes together quickly—just mix uncooked pasta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a bit of cream cheese in a dish, and let the oven do the work. Ready in under an hour.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Sun Dried Tomato Orzo Bake

Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil

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Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

Hasselback-style chicken means more flavor in less time. Just slice, stuff with mozzarella and tomatoes, and bake for about 30 minutes. Great for weeknights when you want something that looks impressive.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil

Tomato Gazpacho Recipe

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Tomato Gazpacho Recipe. Photo credit: Stetted.

This chilled tomato gazpacho is a no-cook way to cool off on hot days. It’s quick to prep in a blender and tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for an hour or two.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Gazpacho Recipe

Tomato Confit

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Tomato Confit. Photo credit: Stetted.

Slow-roasted tomatoes in olive oil and garlic create a rich, spreadable mixture. Use it on pasta, toast, or alongside cheese. It takes time, but most of it is hands-off oven time.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Confit

Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing

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Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

A crisp, light salad with sliced cucumbers and tomatoes tossed in a tangy soy-based dressing. Comes together in 10 minutes and is a good side for grilled dishes or rice bowls.
Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing

Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass with Caper Tomato Butter

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Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass with Caper Tomato Butter. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Sea bass gets pan-seared and topped with a buttery tomato and caper sauce. This 30-minute dish is simple but packed with flavor—ideal for date nights or when you want something more refined.
Get the Recipe: Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass with Caper Tomato Butter

Smoked Tomato Basil Soup

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Smoked Tomato Basil Soup. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This soup puts a twist on the usual tomato basil version by using smoked tomatoes. Add broth, garlic, onions, and a touch of cream, and you’ve got a comforting bowl that’s great any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Basil Soup

Cherry Tomato Bruschetta

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Cherry Tomato Bruschetta. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Toasted bread topped with a quick mix of cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil makes for a no-fuss appetizer. You can pull this together in about 15 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Tomato Bruschetta

Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

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Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

This chilled salad combines cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. Serve it with toasted pita chips for a fast, no-cook side dish.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Roast Tomato Mozzarella & Basil Appetizer

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Roast Tomato Mozzarella & Basil Appetizer. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

A warm twist on Caprese, this appetizer uses roasted tomatoes layered with mozzarella and basil. Great for small gatherings or when you need a starter with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Roast Tomato Mozzarella & Basil Appetizer

Tomato Bruschetta

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Tomato Bruschetta. Photo credit: Happy Snackcidents.

Chopped tomatoes with garlic and herbs on toasted bread—simple and perfect for summer. You can whip this up in 20 minutes for an easy snack or starter.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta

Pan Seared Sablefish (Black Cod) with White Wine Tomatoes

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Pan Seared Sablefish (Black Cod) with White Wine Tomatoes. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

This one-skillet recipe brings tender sablefish together with a white wine tomato sauce. Cooks in under 30 minutes and works well with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Pan Seared Sablefish (Black Cod) with White Wine Tomatoes

Shrimp Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil

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Shrimp Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Shrimp, tomatoes, and basil come together in a quick pasta dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It’s simple, flavorful, and great for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil

Fresh Tomato Basil & Burrata Salad

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Fresh Tomato Basil & Burrata Salad. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

A summer favorite made with sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy burrata. Takes just minutes to prep and works as a light lunch or side.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Tomato Basil & Burrata Salad

Italian Tomato Pasta Soup

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Italian Tomato Pasta Soup. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

This filling soup is packed with beef, sausage, pasta, mushrooms, and escarole. It’s a full meal in one bowl and works great for a weekend dinner or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Italian Tomato Pasta Soup

Pan Roasted Beef Tenderloin Medallions with Tomato Relish

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Pan Roasted Beef Tenderloin Medallions with Tomato Relish. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Beef medallions seared in a skillet and topped with a simple tomato relish make for a fast, flavor-packed dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes and good enough for guests.
Get the Recipe: Pan Roasted Beef Tenderloin Medallions with Tomato Relish