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What to make with tomatoes and cilantro is one of the easiest questions to answer because these two ingredients are a match made in culinary heaven.
When you combine tomatoes and cilantro, you get fresh salsas, vibrant salads, hearty soups, and even comforting main dishes that burst with flavor.
If you’ve ever stared at a bumper crop of tomatoes and a big bunch of cilantro wondering what to make with tomatoes and cilantro, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the best recipes that answer the question of what to make with tomatoes and cilantro.
Let’s dive into the delicious possibilities.
What to Make with Tomatoes and Cilantro: Classic Fresh Salsas
When you ask what to make with tomatoes and cilantro, salsa is probably the first thing that comes to mind.
And for good reason.
This duo forms the backbone of countless salsa variations.
1. Pico de Gallo
Pico de gallo is the quintessential answer to what to make with tomatoes and cilantro.
Dice ripe tomatoes, white onion, jalapeño, and a generous handful of cilantro.
Add lime juice, salt, and a pinch of cumin.
This fresh salsa is perfect with tortilla chips, tacos, grilled fish, or just about anything.
2. Roasted Tomato Salsa
If you want to know what to make with tomatoes and cilantro that has a deeper flavor, try roasting your tomatoes first.
Char tomatoes, garlic, and chilies on a comal or under the broiler.
Blend with fresh cilantro, onion, and salt.
The result is a smoky, rich salsa that elevates any dish.
3. Salsa Verde with Tomatillos
While tomatillos aren’t tomatoes, they’re close cousins, and when you’re figuring out what to make with tomatoes and cilantro, tangy salsa verde is a winner.
Boil or roast tomatillos, blend with cilantro, onion, garlic, and serrano peppers.
This green salsa is fantastic on enchiladas, eggs, or grilled chicken.
What to Make with Tomatoes and Cilantro: Salads and Light Bites
Beyond salsa, there are plenty of fresh ways to use tomatoes and cilantro.
1. Tomato and Cilantro Salad
A simple tomato and cilantro salad answers what to make with tomatoes and cilantro in minutes.
Slice heirloom tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
Toss with chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and flaky salt.
It’s bright, refreshing, and perfect for summer.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad with Tomatoes
If you’re still wondering what to make with tomatoes and cilantro, try adding them to elote salad.
Mix grilled corn, cotija cheese, mayo, lime, chili powder, diced tomatoes, and cilantro.
It’s creamy, smoky, and utterly addictive.
3. Cilantro-Lime Tomato Bruschetta
Swap basil for cilantro in classic bruschetta to answer what to make with tomatoes and cilantro.
Combine diced tomatoes, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil.
Spoon over toasted baguette slices.
It’s a fusion twist that works beautifully.
What to Make with Tomatoes and Cilantro: Soups and Stews
When you want something warm and comforting, tomatoes and cilantro shine in soups.
1. Tomato-Cilantro Soup
Roast tomatoes, onions, and garlic, then blend with vegetable broth.
Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving.
This soup answers what to make with tomatoes and cilantro with a cozy, flavorful bowl.
2. Mexican Chicken Soup with Tomatoes and Cilantro
If you’re looking for what to make with tomatoes and cilantro that’s heartier, try caldo de pollo.
Simmer chicken with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chilies.
Finish with fresh cilantro and lime.
It’s a healing, soulful dish.
3. Lentil Soup with Tomato and Cilantro
For a plant-based option, cook lentils with diced tomatoes, cumin, and garlic.
Stir in cilantro at the end.
This is a great answer to what to make with tomatoes and cilantro when you want something nutritious.
What to Make with Tomatoes and Cilantro: Main Dishes
Tomatoes and cilantro aren’t just for sides.
They can star in main courses too.
1. Cilantro-Lime Chicken with Tomato Salsa
Grill or pan-sear chicken marinated in cilantro, lime, garlic, and olive oil.
Top with a fresh tomato-cilantro salsa.
This answers what to make with tomatoes and cilantro in a satisfying, protein-packed way.
2. Shrimp Tacos with Tomato-Cilantro Slaw
For a quick dinner, make shrimp tacos.
Toss shredded cabbage with diced tomatoes, cilantro, lime, and a bit of mayo.
Serve on warm tortillas.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy what to make with tomatoes and cilantro.
3. Pasta with Fresh Tomato-Cilantro Sauce
Cook pasta and toss with a no-cook sauce of diced tomatoes, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes.
Add mozzarella or feta if you like.
This is a brilliant answer to what to make with tomatoes and cilantro when you’re short on time.
So, What to Make with Tomatoes and Cilantro?
What to make with tomatoes and cilantro really comes down to your mood and what’s in your kitchen.
From pico de gallo to soups, salads, and main dishes, these two ingredients can do it all.
So next time you have a surplus, you’ll never wonder what to make with tomatoes and cilantro again.
Just pick a recipe, grab your knife, and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.