Simple Tomato Cakes Recipe

This is an easy and delicious recipe for tomato cakes, a perfect choice for those who want a quick, savory and satisfying dish. Combining the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the crunchiness of saltine crackers, these cakes are fantastic for breakfast, lunch or as a snack anytime of the day.

Photos of Simple Tomato Cakes Recipe

All ingredients required for this recipe are pretty common and can be easily found at your local supermarket. You might want to pay attention to the type of tomatoes you get - choose the ones with juice, as it gives the cakes their moistness and flavor. Also, saltine crackers are the preferred choice for this recipe, giving the cakes their unique crusty outer layer.

Essential Ingredients for the Simple Tomato Cakes

Tomatoes with juice: The main ingredient, lending a juicy and tangy flavor to the cakes.

Onion: Added for a hint of sharpness and depth of flavor.

Saltine Crackers: These give the cakes a unique crunchy texture.

Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the other ingredients.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the cakes, it gives them a golden-brown, appetizing appearance.

One reader, Duff Whitehead says:

The simple tomato cakes recipe was a delightful surprise! The combination of tomatoes and crackers created a unique and flavorful patty. The crispy texture and savory taste made it a hit with my family. I loved how easy it was to prepare, and it's now a go-to recipe for quick and delicious meals.

Duff Whitehead

Mastering the Techniques for Simple Tomato Cakes Recipe

How to prepare the tomato mixture: Combine the tomatoes, onion, and crackers in a large bowl, season with salt and pepper, and mix thoroughly. Let the mixture stand for about 15 minutes until it turns into a stiff paste.

How to form the patties: Take the tomato mixture and shape it into patties using your hands, ensuring they are compact and hold together well.

How to fry the patties: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the hot oil and fry, flipping only once, until they are golden on both sides.

How to serve: Serve the tomato cakes warm and enjoy.

How To Make Simple Tomato Cakes

Savory and dense, these tomato cakes are buttery and rich made with crisp saltines and tangy tomato juice for a cheap and quick 40-minute dish.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Place the tomatoes, onion, and crackers into a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, and mix thoroughly. Cover, and let stand for about 15 minutes or until mixture turns into a stiff paste.

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Form the tomato mixture into patties, and place in the hot oil.

1. Fry the patties, flipping only once, until golden on both sides.

1. Serve warm and enjoy.

Nutrition

- Calories: 208.58kcal

- Fat: 12.66g

- Saturated Fat: 1.09g

- Trans Fat: 0.12g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.04g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.97g

- Carbohydrates: 21.41g

- Fiber: 2.01g

- Sugar: 3.32g

- Protein: 3.12g

- Sodium: 254.02mg

- Calcium: 16.53mg

- Potassium: 289.65mg

- Iron: 1.55mg

- Vitamin A: 43.40µg

- Vitamin C: 14.66mg

Elevate Your Simple Tomato Cakes with This Technique Tip

To ensure your tomato cakes have a consistent texture and don't fall apart while frying, it's crucial to let the tomato, onion, and cracker mixture rest until it forms a stiff paste. This allows the crackers to fully absorb the juice from the tomatoes and onions, creating a cohesive mixture that will hold together when formed into patties. If the mixture is too wet, add a few more crushed crackers; if it's too dry, a little more tomato juice can be added.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Simple Tomato Cakes

Prep ahead: Prepare ingredients and mixtures in advance to streamline the cooking process and save time.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup and utilize only one pot or pan for cooking.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of the recipe and store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, reducing prep time and minimizing clutter.

Efficient multitasking: Plan and execute tasks simultaneously to maximize productivity and minimize cooking time.

Utilize kitchen gadgets: Incorporate time-saving tools such as food processors, blenders, and slow cookers to expedite the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Simple Tomato Cakes Recipe

tomatoes with juice - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh tomatoes with juice, providing a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a milder alternative to onions, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.
saltine crackers - Substitute with breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs can be used to provide a similar binding and texture to the dish, especially when crushed finely.
salt and pepper - Substitute with seasoned salt: Seasoned salt can add additional flavor and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall seasoning.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to vegetable oil, adding a rich and fruity flavor to the dish.

Presenting Simple Tomato Cakes for Maximum Appeal

Elevate the plating: Present the tomato cakes on a pristine white plate, allowing the golden brown color of the cakes to stand out against the clean backdrop. Arrange the cakes in a circular pattern, creating a visually appealing display.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few delicate sprigs of fresh basil over the tomato cakes to add a pop of vibrant green color and a hint of aromatic freshness to the dish.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction: Create an elegant design on the plate using a balsamic reduction. The rich, dark syrup will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a touch of sweetness and acidity to complement the savory tomato cakes.
Add a touch of sophistication with microgreens: Place a small bundle of microgreens on top of the tomato cakes, adding a refined and delicate element to the presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a few edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to bring a burst of color and a touch of whimsy to the plate, elevating the overall visual impact.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Tomato Cakes

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It is a great tool for quickly processing the tomatoes and onions for the recipe.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It is essential for frying the tomato cakes to a golden brown.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a deep bowl used for mixing ingredients. It is necessary for combining the tomatoes, onions, and crackers to form the tomato cake mixture.
Spatula: A spatula is a kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting and flipping foods. It is essential for flipping the tomato cakes while frying.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately. They are essential for measuring the salt and pepper for seasoning the tomato cakes.
Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is used for frying and cooking. It is necessary for frying the tomato cakes to a crispy golden brown.

Storing and Freezing Simple Tomato Cakes for Later Enjoyment

Allow the tomato cakes to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will help prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their shape.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled tomato cakes in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the cakes on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
To freeze:
- Wrap each cooled tomato cake individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped cakes in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, remove the desired number of cakes from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Place the thawed cakes on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Pro tip: For an extra crispy texture, you can also reheat the tomato cakes in a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium heat until warmed through and crispy on the outside.

How To Reheat Leftover Simple Tomato Cakes

The best way to reheat leftover simple tomato cakes is to use a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan to prevent sticking and to help crisp up the exterior of the cakes. Heat the cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
Another option is to reheat the tomato cakes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a quicker option, you can also reheat the tomato cakes in the microwave. Place the cakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-60 seconds or until heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to the other methods.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated tomato cakes, try topping them with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to reheat the tomato cakes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

Surprising Facts About Simple Tomato Cakes

The tomato cakes recipe is a simple and delicious way to use up leftover tomatoes. It's a great way to reduce food waste and create a tasty snack or side dish. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, making this recipe a healthy choice. Plus, the use of saltine crackers adds a satisfying crunch to the cakes. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful dish. Enjoy these tomato cakes as a light and savory treat.

Is Making Simple Tomato Cakes at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this tomato cakes recipe is quite high. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for households. The use of tomatoes and onions is cost-effective, and the addition of saltine crackers keeps the cost low. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10. As a culinary chef, I would rate this recipe a 8/10 for its affordability and simplicity.

Are Simple Tomato Cakes Healthy or Unhealthy?

The simple tomato cakes recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe relies heavily on saltine crackers, which are made from refined flour and provide little nutritional value.
Frying the patties in oil adds unnecessary fat and calories to the dish.
The recipe lacks a significant source of protein, which is essential for a balanced meal.
There are no additional vegetables or herbs included, missing out on potential vitamins, minerals, and flavor.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the saltine crackers with whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed whole grain crackers to increase fiber and nutrient content.
Instead of frying, try baking the patties in the oven or cooking them on a non-stick griddle with minimal oil.
Add some lean protein to the mixture, such as:
- Canned tuna or salmon
- Cooked quinoa or lentils
- Grated cheese (in moderation)
Incorporate more vegetables and herbs into the patties for added nutrition and flavor:
- Grated zucchini or carrots
- Finely chopped spinach or kale
- Fresh basil, parsley, or oregano
Serve the tomato cakes with a side salad or steamed vegetables to create a more balanced and nutritious meal.

Editor's Take on the Delightful Simple Tomato Cakes Recipe

This simple tomato cakes recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of tomatoes and saltine crackers creates a unique and satisfying patty that is both crispy and moist. The addition of onion adds a subtle depth of flavor, while the seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the overall taste. The cooking method ensures a golden and crispy exterior, while the inside remains tender and flavorful. This dish is versatile and can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a light main course. Overall, it's a simple yet delicious recipe that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Simple Tomato Cakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and butter, perfect for pairing with the tomato cakes.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection, adding a healthy and flavorful side to the tomato cakes.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing and colorful fruit salad, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory tomato cakes.

Exploring Alternative Recipes Similar to Simple Tomato Cakes

Savory Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters are a delicious way to enjoy zucchini. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a side of fresh salad for a satisfying meal.

Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps: These flavorful lettuce wraps are a perfect combination of spicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy sauce. They make for a light and refreshing meal or appetizer.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This tropical-inspired chia pudding is a healthy and refreshing dessert option. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: This velvety smooth soup is a comforting and nutritious option for a cozy night in. The rich flavors of butternut squash make it a perfect starter or main course.

Perfect Pairings: Main Courses and Desserts to Complement Simple Tomato Cakes

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty citrus and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a savory filling with ground meat, rice, and seasonings, then stuff it into colorful bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Top with melted cheese for an irresistible main course.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Simple Tomato Cakes Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted choice for a delicious meal. The use of fresh tomatoes and onions ensures a burst of natural flavors. The addition of saltine crackers provides a satisfying crunch, while the vegetable oil guarantees a perfect golden brown finish. The simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients promises a delightful dining experience. Trust in the quality and simplicity of this recipe to create a memorable dish.

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FAQ:

What type of tomatoes should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of tomatoes for this recipe, but I recommend using ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.

Can I use a different type of cracker if I don't have saltine crackers?

Yes, you can use other types of crackers if you don't have saltine crackers. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as different crackers may have varying levels of salt.

Can I make these tomato cakes ahead of time and reheat them later?

Yes, you can make the tomato cakes ahead of time and reheat them later. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or toaster oven until they are heated through.

Can I add other ingredients to the tomato mixture for extra flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs, spices, or even some grated cheese to the tomato mixture to customize the flavor to your liking.

Are these tomato cakes suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet?

Yes, these tomato cakes are suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets as they are made with simple, plant-based ingredients.