Panfried Green and/or Red Tomatoes

Panfried green and/or red tomatoes are a delicious and quick side dish that celebrates the delightful flavors of not-too-ripe tomatoes. While ultra-ripe tomatoes may liquefy during cooking, the firmer texture of slightly underripe tomatoes holds up perfectly when panfried. This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and just 20 minutes, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight meals. With a crispy bread crumb coating and the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, this dish is sure to please your taste buds and become a go-to favorite.

TOTAL SERVINGS: 4

TOTAL TIME: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, or more as needed
• 2 or 3 large green, reddish-green, or greenish-red tomatoes, cored and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices
• Plain bread crumbs, preferably fresh, cornmeal, or all-purpose flour for dredging
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Dredge each tomato slice, one at a time, in the bread crumbs (or cornmeal/flour) until fully coated.
3. Add the breaded tomato slices to the hot skillet.
4. Cook the tomato slices, adding a little more olive oil if needed to keep them sizzling. Season the slices with salt and freshly ground black pepper as they cook.
5. Turn the tomato slices when the first side is golden brown, and then cook the other side. The total cooking time will be less than 10 minutes. Be gentle when handling the tomato slices to maintain their shape.
6. Serve the panfried tomatoes hot or at room temperature to enjoy their delightful crispy texture and delicious flavor.

VARIATIONS:

1. Spiced Tomato Coating: Add some spices or herbs to the bread crumbs or flour for an extra kick of flavor. Consider mixing in a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, or grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the taste.
2. Tomato Sandwich: Use the panfried tomatoes as a flavorful filling for sandwiches. Layer them between slices of crusty bread with some fresh lettuce and a dollop of mayonnaise for a delightful lunch option.
3. Tomato Salad Topper: Cut the panfried tomato slices into smaller pieces and use them as a crunchy and flavorful topping for salads. Their crispy texture adds a delightful contrast to the greens.
4. Tomato Bruschetta: Serve the panfried tomato slices on toasted baguette slices drizzled with balsamic glaze for a delectable appetizer or snack.

USES:

• Panfried green and/or red tomatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a delicious and satisfying meal.
• Their crispy texture and savory taste also make them an excellent accompaniment to pasta dishes or as part of a tapas-style meal. Additionally, you can add these panfried tomatoes to breakfast plates or enjoy them on their own as a delightful snack.

With its simple preparation and delightful taste, panfried green and/or red tomatoes are a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of not-too-ripe tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe can be adapted with different coatings and seasonings, allowing you to personalize the dish to your liking. Whether served hot or at room temperature, as a side dish or as part of a delicious sandwich, these panfried tomatoes are sure to please your palate and become a favorite addition to your culinary repertoire. So, the next time you have some firm and slightly underripe tomatoes on hand, give this recipe a try and savor the crispy goodness of these delightful panfried treats.