Cherry Tomatoes vs. Grape Tomatoes. What’s the difference between the two?
Tomatoes are a veggie staple in recipes all over the world and come in dozens of different shapes, sizes, and colors. Part of the Nightshade family of vegetables, tomatoes pack powerful health benefits as well as offer a sweet burst of flavor with every bite.
But what are the actual differences between cherry tomatoes and grape tomatoes? From Romas to Beefsteaks, cherry and grape tomatoes all are low carb and keto superstars, adding color and texture to all kinds of recipes.
Cherry Tomatoes:
Cherry tomatoes are globe-shaped (round) and can vary in color from orange to bright red. They have thinner skins and are juicy and can ‘pop’ when they’re bitten down on. Their flavor is more concentrated than the larger varieties due to their small size. They make excellent vehicles for appetizers, simply pipe in seasoned cream cheese, or an olive tapenade, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, and place under the broiler until the cheese is melted.
Grape Tomatoes:
Grape tomatoes are roughly the same size as cherry tomatoes but have an elongated shape (more oval in shape). They can also range in dramatic colors from yellow, to orange, to red, even purple or black and can look very dramatic in recipes. Grape tomatoes are meatier and will hold their shape better than cherry tomatoes because they have less water in them.
Are They Interchangeable?
For cold dishes like salads, grape tomatoes will look more exotic in a recipe, and because they are meatier will not lose their shape as quickly as cherry tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes have a uniformly bright color that pops in pasta recipes, soups, and stir-fries. They also lend themselves well to being roasted like in this Whipped Feta with Roasted Tomatoes. For the most part, they can be used interchangeably but cherry tomatoes might have to be cut into smaller pieces since they’re larger and they may add a little bit of extra liquid to a recipe.
Best Tomato Dishes
- Fresh Tomato Salad – perfect way to use those garden veggies
- Burrata with Balsamic Tomatoes – an Italian-inspired appetizer
- Tomato Basil Rice – such a flavorful side dish
- Roasted Tomatoes – ready in 15 minutes
- Couscous with Tomatoes and Feta – an easy side dish or entrèe
- Tomato Burrata Salad – a tasty summer salad
