If your tomato plants haven’t quite ripened before the cool British weather sets in, you’re likely left wondering what to do with green tomatoes.

Don’t toss them! These firm, tangy fruits are incredibly versatile and can be transformed into savoury delights, zesty condiments, and even sweet surprises.

In this guide, you’ll discover five of the best ways to make the most out of your green tomatoes, whether you’re growing your own or grabbing them from a local market.

With expert tips and easy UK-friendly recipes, you’ll never look at an unripe tomato the same way again.

What Are Green Tomatoes and Why You Shouldn’t Waste Them?

Green tomatoes are simply unripe tomatoes, often picked before the first frost or as part of a late-season harvest. Unlike their red counterparts, they have a firm texture and tangy flavour, which makes them perfect for a range of dishes.

There’s no need to let them go to waste:

• They can be cooked, pickled, or even baked.
• They store well in cool places.
• You can ripen some of them indoors — just place them next to bananas or apples in a paper bag.

These tips are backed by gardeners and home cooks across the UK who’ve embraced the green tomato as a seasonal gem.

What to Do With Green Tomatoes? – What are the 5 Best Ways You Can Use Them?

1. Make Classic Fried Green Tomatoes

This Southern-American dish has found fans around the world — and for good reason. Fried green tomatoes are crispy on the outside, soft inside, and perfectly tangy. Here’s how to make your own:

• Slice green tomatoes thickly
• Dip them in flour, then beaten egg, then cornmeal or breadcrumbs
• Fry in oil until golden

Top tip: Serve them with garlic mayo or spicy ketchup for a brilliant pub-style snack.

You can also oven-bake or air-fry them for a lighter version. Either way, it’s one of the tastiest answers to the question: “What should I do with all these green tomatoes?”

2. Prepare Tangy Pickles and Preserves

You can turn green tomatoes into long-lasting condiments that brighten up your pantry.

Quick Pickled Green Tomatoes

• Slice the tomatoes
• Boil a simple brine with vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices
• Pour over the tomatoes in sterilised jars

They’re ready in a few days and stay crisp for weeks in the fridge.

Savoury Green Tomato Chutney (British Style)

This classic UK recipe turns tart tomatoes into a sweet, spiced preserve. Add:

• Chopped tomatoes, onions, and apples
• Brown sugar, malt vinegar, ginger, mustard seeds
• Simmer slowly until thickened

Enjoy it with:

• Cheddar cheese
• Cold meats
• Crusty bread

Green tomato chutney is a perfect Christmas gift or store cupboard staple!

3. Try Green Tomato Salsa and Fresh Condiments

Green tomatoes can be blended or chopped into zesty toppings and dips.

Green Tomato Salsa Verde

A fresh, vibrant option:

• Blitz tomatoes with coriander, garlic, onion, lime juice, and chilli
• Season with salt and olive oil

This salsa is ideal for tacos, grilled chicken, or nachos.

Chunky Green Tomato Relish

Mix diced tomatoes with vinegar, mustard, celery seed, and onions for a more textured condiment. This works wonders on:

• Burgers
• Sausages
• Sandwiches

Using green tomatoes in condiments lets their flavour shine in a totally different way.

4. Use Green Tomatoes in Savoury Dishes

They’re not just for the jar — green tomatoes can be the star of your dinner plate.

Roasted or Grilled Green Tomatoes

Slice, drizzle with oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast or grill them. They become sweeter and pair well with meats or halloumi.

Salads and Sandwiches

Try tossing them into:

• Couscous or quinoa salads with feta
• BLT sandwiches as a tangy twist
• Pasta salads with olives and capers

These uses make cooking with green tomatoes an easy win.

5. Sweet and Unexpected Recipes

Yes, you can use green tomatoes in desserts too!

Green Tomato Pie

It might sound weird, but this American-inspired pie flavours like apple pie:

• Use thinly sliced tomatoes
• Add sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg
• Bake in a buttery crust

The result? A sweet-tart treat that surprises everyone.

Chutney, Jam, or Jelly for Gifting

Cook down tomatoes with sugar, lemon zest, and spices for unique preserves. Package in small jars and tie with ribbon — a thoughtful, homemade gift!

Comparison Table – What are the 5 Best Ways to Use Green Tomatoes?

Method	Best For	Texture	Time Required
Fried Green Tomatoes	Snack or side dish	Crispy	~30 mins
Pickles & Chutney	Long shelf-life preserves	Tangy, soft	~1–2 hrs
Salsa & Relish	Fresh condiments	Chunky/Zesty	~15–30 mins
Roasted or Grilled Dishes	Main meals or sides	Soft, caramelised	~20–30 mins
Pies & Sweet Preserves	Dessert or edible gifts	Sweet-tart	~1 hr+

Conclusion

So now you know what to do with green tomatoes — you’ve got options galore. From crispy fried bites to zesty condiments, hearty mains to inventive desserts, these tart little fruits are far from waste.

Pick one or try them all:

• Craving comfort? Fry them.
• Want to store the harvest? Make chutney or pickles.
• Feeling adventurous? Try a pie or salsa.

With a little imagination, your green tomatoes can shine in your autumn and winter cooking — and even make wonderful homemade gifts!

What are the FAQs On What to Do With Green Tomatoes?

1. Are green tomatoes safe to eat raw?

Yes, though they’re tart and firm. They’re best in salsas or lightly pickled if raw.

2. Can you ripen green tomatoes indoors in the UK?

Absolutely. Place them near a banana or apple in a paper bag in a warm room. It takes 1–2 weeks depending on the temperature.

3. Do green tomatoes cause stomach upset?

Unripe tomatoes contain small amounts of solanine, but they’re safe in moderate amounts — especially once cooked or pickled.

4. Can you freeze green tomatoes?

Yes, slice and freeze them for later frying or stewing. Blanching first helps retain texture.