Tomatoes on the Windowsill

Nothing says summer like a window sill full of ripe, juicy tomatoes—just sitting there, soaking up the sun, waiting to be enjoyed. Peak tomato season has arrived, and here in Kentucky, we’re still blessed with an abundance. From heirlooms to cherry tomatoes, these sweet, sun-warmed treasures are the very essence of summer.

For me, with my Southern roots, nothing compares to plucking a tomato straight off the vine and eating it while it’s still warm. Pure heaven.

The Joy of Tomato Season

One of the best things about summer is the variety of tomatoes available: Heirlooms, Brandywine, Cherry, Cherokee Purple, Roma, Early Girl, Better Boy, Yellow Pear, Beefsteak, Plum, Green Zebra…the list goes on. Each brings its own flavor, texture, and story.

And while I love a simple tomato sandwich or classic BLT, I’ve gathered some of my favorite recipes that showcase these summer jewels in fresh and unexpected ways.

Favorite Tomato Recipes for Summer

Heirloom Tomato Jam

You know I love a good jam, and this year’s bounty inspired one of my all-time favorites: Heirloom Tomato Jam . With onion, garlic, and spices, it’s savory, rich, and versatile. Serve it on your next cheese board, spread it on crostini, or be bold and try it on a grilled ribeye or burger.

Tomato Jam & Herbed Cheese Crostini

Hosting friends for cocktails? Keep it simple with Tomato Jam & Herbed Cheese Crostini. Crunchy bread, creamy herbed cheese, and a smear of tomato jam make the perfect bite. Add nuts and olives, and you’ve got yourself a rustic Italian-inspired board.

Cherry Tomato Crostini

Cherry tomatoes are the jewels of summer. My Cherry Tomato Crostini calls for just a few ingredients: ripe cherry tomatoes, good olive oil, fresh basil, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Simple, colorful, and absolutely delicious. Simply slice the tomatoes in half, drizzle on some high-quality olive oil, sliced basil and salt and pepper to taste. Serve over toasted baquette slices.

Marinated Tomatoes

Sometimes the best recipes are the simplest. Marinated Tomatoes are like caprese salad without the mozzarella—juicy tomatoes soaked in olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Make it in advance and let the flavors mingle—it only gets better with time.

Classic Southern Tomato Pie

Summer wouldn’t be complete without Tomato Pie . This recipe takes me back to summers home from college, cooking alongside my mom. Her quick version used store-bought pie crust, but mine features a homemade crust and a curious twist. It’s savory, rich, and deeply nostalgic.

 Tomato Water Martini

Nothing goes to waste in my kitchen—not even tomato water. This flavorful liquid (the juice released when slicing ripe tomatoes) makes the base of my refreshing Tomato Water Martini. Add a splash of vodka or gin, and you’ve got an inventive summer cocktail.

Always Be Curious

From savory jams to pies and even cocktails, tomatoes are one of summer’s greatest gifts. Whether you grow your own or pick them up from a local farmer’s market, these recipes will help you savor the season to the fullest.

Always be curious,
MK