As summer’s bounty begins to fade, there’s no better way to preserve the taste and essence of cherry tomatoes than through the art of canning. With their sweet-tart flavor and pop of color, these tiny tomatoes are a perfect candidate for pickling, jam-making, or chutney-creating. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delectable recipes that showcase the versatility of cherry tomatoes in various forms, from spicy jams to sweet preserves, and everything in between.
From classic pairings like garlic and basil to bold combinations like chipotle peppers and honey, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your canning endeavors. Whether you’re a seasoned preservationist or just starting out, we’ve got the perfect guide for you. So let’s dive into the world of cherry tomato canning and discover the flavors that await!
Spicy Garlic Cherry Tomato Jam
Elevate your condiment game with this sweet and spicy jam that’s perfect for topping toast, using as a sandwich spread, or serving alongside grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup garlic, minced (about 6-8 cloves)
– 1/4 cup red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
3. Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the jam has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Sweet Basil Cherry Tomato Preserves
Sweet Basil Cherry Tomato Preserves Recipe
As the sweetness of summer yields to the coziness of fall, this preserve recipe celebrates the union of sweet basil and cherry tomatoes. This unique condiment is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Combine cherry tomatoes, sugar, basil, lemon juice, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the preserves have thickened and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and stir in water.
5. Let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of preserves
Balsamic Glazed Cherry Tomato Chutney
This recipe transforms cherry tomatoes into a rich, tangy condiment perfect for topping grilled meats, cheeses, or using as a dip. The balsamic glaze adds a depth of flavor that will elevate any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, sugar, and salt.
3. Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.
4. Spread the tomato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices and start to caramelize.
6. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
9. Toss the roasted tomatoes with the balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Herb Confit
A sweet and savory condiment perfect for topping grilled meats, crostini, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, thyme), chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and salt.
3. Spread the tomato mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes have released their juices and started to caramelize.
5. Stir in chopped fresh herbs and season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Cherry Tomato Salsa
Smoky Chipotle Cherry Tomato Salsa Recipe
This smoky and tangy salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. With the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and a hint of smokiness from chipotles, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño pepper, chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, and cumin.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (not including refrigeration time)
Honey-Glazed Cherry Tomato Compote
Elevate your meals with this sweet and savory compote, perfect for topping grilled meats, cheeses, or using as a sauce. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the warmth of honey and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherry tomatoes, honey, Dijon mustard, and cumin.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the compote has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon-Thyme Cherry Tomato Conserve
Lemon-Thyme Cherry Tomato Conserve Recipe
Brighten up your day with this tangy and flavorful conserve made with cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, and thyme. Perfect as a topping for toast, yogurt, or as a side dish for grilled meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherry tomatoes, sugar, lemon juice, and honey.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the conserve has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in thyme and season with salt to taste.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary-Infused Cherry Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and aromatic sauce featuring sweet cherry tomatoes and fragrant rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped rosemary and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes release their juices and start to break down.
4. Pour in the broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Cherry Tomato Relish
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with this colorful relish, perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and sugar to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture is syrupy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let the relish cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Cherry Tomato Ketchup
Elevate your condiment game with this sweet and spicy twist on traditional ketchup! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with a blend of warming spices for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cherry tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let ketchup thicken for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Cherry Tomato in Olive Oil
Transform cherry tomatoes into sweet and tangy sun-dried treats, perfect for snacking or adding to salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Place the cherry tomato halves on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each tomato half.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes, making sure they are evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle salt to taste over the tomatoes.
6. Place the baking sheet in the oven and dehydrate for 3-4 hours, or until the tomatoes have lost their moisture and reached your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Cherry Tomato and Red Pepper Bruschetta Mix
A sweet and savory twist on the classic bruschetta, this recipe combines juicy cherry tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a flavorful and colorful topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, toss red bell peppers with remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic, and salt on another baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
4. Combine roasted cherry tomatoes and red peppers in a bowl. Add balsamic vinegar and stir to combine.
5. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast until crispy.
6. Spoon bruschetta mix over toasted bread and garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Maple-Bourbon Cherry Tomato Butter
Sweet and savory, this Maple-Bourbon Cherry Tomato Butter is a game-changer for toast, crackers, or as a dip for vegetables. This rich spread combines the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the warmth of bourbon and the deep flavor of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherry tomatoes, butter, maple syrup, and bourbon.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted and the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Jalapeño Pickles
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these Cherry Tomato and Jalapeño Pickles! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the spicy kick of jalapeños, creating a unique and delicious condiment.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 4-6 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeños.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the brine over the tomato mixture and stir to coat.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 5 days.
5. Once pickled, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (minimum)
Herbed Cherry Tomato and Garlic Marinara
This flavorful marinara sauce combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the pungency of garlic, all tied together with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Fig Mostarda
This sweet and savory mostarda is perfect as a topping for cheese plates, crackers, or even as a condiment for grilled meats. With the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes and figs, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherry tomatoes, figs, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard seeds.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange-Zested Cherry Tomato Marmalade
This sweet and tangy marmalade is perfect for topping toast, using as a glaze for meats or cheeses, or serving alongside crackers. With its bright orange color and hint of citrus, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine cherry tomatoes, sugar, orange juice, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in grated orange zest and powdered pectin.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the marmalade has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Eggplant Caponata
This sweet and savory condiment is a staple of Sicilian cuisine, perfect for serving alongside pasta dishes, as an antipasto, or as a topping for bruschetta.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, diced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced eggplant and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, garlic, and capers to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tomatoes have released their juices and the mixture is saucy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to preserve the flavors of summer with these 18 mouthwatering cherry tomato canning recipes! From sweet and tangy jams and preserves to savory sauces and salsas, there’s something for every taste. Try making Spicy Garlic Cherry Tomato Jam, Sweet Basil Cherry Tomato Preserves, or Balsamic Glazed Cherry Tomato Chutney. Or, go bold with Smoky Chipotle Cherry Tomato Salsa or Maple-Bourbon Cherry Tomato Butter. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or just starting out, these recipes will help you make the most of your cherry tomato harvest.
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