There’s something deeply nostalgic about a pot of stewed tomatoes simmering away on the stovetop. This particular recipe—savory stewed tomatoes with onion, basil, and olive oil—is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the past. It's simple, honest, and bursting with the bright, summery essence of fresh tomatoes. Inspired by garden harvests and grandma’s kitchen, it’s the perfect side or base for countless comforting meals. Whether you’re spooning it over toasted bread, tossing it with pasta, or serving it alongside chicken or ground beef, this recipe is a timeless staple that effortlessly fits into both modern and old-fashioned cooking styles.
This dish is remarkably versatile and serves as a delicious companion to many main courses and side ideas.
It pairs beautifully with pan-seared or grilled chicken thighs. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness, balancing the flavors. It's also a fantastic base for ground beef recipes—just stir in cooked beef and simmer for a quick, hearty ragu.
One of our favorite pasta recipes is simply tossing these stewed tomatoes with spaghetti, a bit of grated Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water. Instant magic.
Looking for old-school vibes? Serve with fried or breaded tomatoes, old fashion-style, or over macaroni for a nostalgic take on macaroni and tomatoes, old fashioned edition.
Vegetarian recipes don’t get much more soul-satisfying than this. Add sautéed mushrooms, white beans, or grilled eggplant for a meat-free main course.
Craving comfort in a bowl? Blend this down with a bit of cream or broth for a tomato soup recipe with fresh tomatoes that outshines any canned version.
Absolutely. While fresh tomatoes offer the best flavor, high-quality canned whole tomatoes work wonderfully and save time. Just be sure to use ones without added herbs or salt so you can control the seasoning.
Roma and San Marzano tomatoes are ideal. They’re meaty, low in water content, and rich in flavor. For homemade stewed tomatoes, heirloom varieties can also add a lovely depth if you want a more complex profile.
Yes! You can easily turn this into a protein-packed main. It complements chicken thigh recipes and chicken breast recipes well. You can also brown some ground beef and stir it in for a quick one-pot meal.
Very much so. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently on the stove.
Yes! This is a brilliant make-ahead option. Serve it with roasted vegetables, over rice or pasta, or with crusty bread for dipping. You can even use it as a shortcut sauce for baked casseroles or skillet dinners.
