Most people know the frustration of coming home from the grocery store only to find that their tomatoes are bruised or that they’ve bought more produce than their family can eat before it spoils.
But before you throw them away, consider alternative uses. There are plenty of ways to make the most of bruised or overripe tomatoes, including delicious recipe ideas.
Can You Eat a Bruised Tomato?
Yes, a bruised tomato is still edible. However, its texture may not be the most enjoyable, as it’s often soft and squishy. To make it more appealing, simply cut off the bruised portion and use the rest as you normally would.
Cooking with a Bruised Tomato
Bruised tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, and in many cases, their soft spots won’t even be noticeable. However, if a tomato has mold, that’s a different issue—it should not be eaten.
Expert Advice on Using Bruised Tomatoes
“Don’t let this go on too long before you do that, or the entire fruit will be spoiled. A slight bruise won’t hurt as you cook and prepare them, but a super-soft or moldy section is just no good,” explains Scott Daigre, founder of Tomatomania. Tomatomania is a well-known annual gardening event and competition that has been running for over 20 years, providing Daigre with extensive knowledge on tomatoes.
Composting as an Alternative
If a tomato is moldy and no longer suitable for cooking, composting is a great alternative. Otherwise, disposing of it properly is the best way to prevent it from spoiling other produce. Acting quickly is key to keeping your tomatoes fresh and avoiding unnecessary waste.
The Truth About Tomatoes on the Vine
Daigre also shared with EatingWell that the common belief that tomatoes last longer when left on the vine isn’t entirely accurate. While keeping them on the vine may protect them from moisture and bacteria, it does not actually slow the ripening process. Despite our best intentions, sometimes we get carried away at the grocery store or farmer’s market and end up with more tomatoes than we can use before they become overripe or spoiled.
Making the Most of Overripe or Bruised Tomatoes
Just like bruised tomatoes, overripe ones can still be used in various recipes without anyone noticing. One simple and delicious option is slow-roasting them. To do this, coat the tomatoes with olive oil and your favorite herbs, then roast them at 300°F. The roasting time varies depending on the size of the tomatoes: cherry tomatoes take about 2.5 hours, plum tomatoes need around 5 hours, and larger heirloom varieties should be sliced beforehand to ensure even cooking.
A Versatile Ingredient
Roasted tomatoes, whether made from bruised or overripe ones, are a flavorful and nutritious addition to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. According to VeryWellHealth, tomatoes are packed with vitamins, but consuming them in different ways ensures your body gets the full range of their health benefits. Other great recipe ideas include marinara sauce, soup, and salsa.
Proper Handling and Storage of Tomatoes
While it’s possible to make use of overripe or bruised tomatoes, proper handling from the moment of purchase can help prevent food waste and foodborne illnesses. Always wash your produce before consuming it to remove any bacteria from transportation.
According to the Canadian government, the best way to store tomatoes is to buy them when they are firm but not too hard. They should be kept unwashed, uncovered, and at room temperature until they ripen, away from direct sunlight. Once ripe, they should be stored in the refrigerator and used within three days. If you’re not ready to use them right away, you can chop, slice, or dice them before freezing them for several months.
By following these tips, you can reduce waste, enjoy flavorful dishes, and make the most of your tomatoes, whether they’re bruised, overripe, or perfectly fresh.