We’ve all been there. You’re halfway through making dinner, look for cherry tomatoes, and—surprise—they’re not around. No big deal, we’ve rounded up super easy swaps that work just as well. From grape tomatoes to canned options, there’s more flexibility here than you’d think.
We’ve experimented with these replacements plenty of times. Like that day we went for diced plum tomatoes—totally nailed it! These alternatives keep things simple without messing up the flavor. Swapping ingredients can actually be pretty fun, so you’ll still enjoy your cooking routine even when your go-to isn’t on hand.
With these options, you can keep your meal plans moving. It’s all about using what’s in front of you and making it work. Once you try a few of these, missing cherry tomatoes won’t even be a hiccup anymore.
5 Quick Substitutes for Cherry Tomatoes
Here are some easy cherry tomato substitutes to try in your dishes.
1 – Grape Tomatoes
First up, grape tomatoes. They’re a great substitute for cherry tomatoes. We’ve tossed them into salads and simmered them in sauces. The flavor is close, with a bit more sweetness.
Grape tomatoes are easy to spot. You’ll usually find them in the produce aisle. Most of us already stock them in the fridge.
Their shape differs slightly. They’re more oval and less round. Use them in the same 1:1 ratio as cherry tomatoes.
They hold up well when cooked. We’ve noticed they don’t split as easily, which is a bonus. Plus, they add that vibrant touch we all enjoy in dishes.
They’re versatile and swap seamlessly. Great for snacks or recipes, they’re an easy stand-in for cherry tomatoes. Simple, sweet, and always ready to step in!
2 – Roma Tomatoes (Diced)
The Roma tomato, diced, is a handy substitute for cherry tomatoes. We’ve used them in salsas and stews. They bring a rich flavor and a bit of texture.
Roma tomatoes are easy to find. They’re usually in the produce section. Most of us have them on hand.
They’re larger than cherry tomatoes. Dice them to match the size. Use a 1:1 ratio for substitution.
They hold up well in cooking. We like how they add depth to dishes. Plus, they’re less juicy, which helps in some recipes.
Roma tomatoes are versatile. They work in many dishes. It’s a simple switch that keeps things tasty. Definitely worth reaching for when cherry tomatoes are missing.
3 – Sun-Dried Tomatoes
The sun-dried tomato is a bold substitute for cherry tomatoes. We’ve added them to salads and pastas before, and they bring a tangy kick. Their rich flavor stands out every time.
Sun-dried tomatoes are shelf-stable. You’ll usually find them packed in oil or dried in bags. Most pantries already have a stash.
They’re stronger than fresh tomatoes. Use half as much to keep the dish balanced. A 1:2 ratio is a good call.
They handle heat really well. We’ve noticed they bring color and serious depth to sauces. Plus, their chewy texture makes them stand out in any recipe.
Sun-dried tomatoes fit in with so many meals. You can count on them when fresh cherry tomatoes aren’t an option. Rich, tangy, and easy to use—sun-dried tomatoes are a pantry win.
4 – Campari Tomatoes
Another option is Campari tomatoes. They’re a juicy substitute for cherry tomatoes. We’ve used them in salads and sandwiches. Their flavor is sweet and mild.
Campari tomatoes are easy to find. They’re usually in the produce section. Most of us have tried them before.
They’re larger than cherry tomatoes. Slice them to match the size. Use a 1:1 ratio for substitution.
They hold up well in cooking. We like how they add a burst of flavor. Plus, they’re less acidic, which is nice.
Campari tomatoes are versatile. They work in many dishes. It’s a simple switch that keeps things tasty. A solid option when cherry tomatoes are out of reach.
5 – Plum Tomatoes
Plum tomatoes are another substitute for cherry tomatoes. We’ve added them to sauces and stews, and they bring a deep, hearty taste. Their flavor really stands out in cooked dishes.
Plum tomatoes are easy to spot. They’re in the produce section most of the time. Chances are, we already have a few sitting around.
They’re bigger than cherry tomatoes. Dicing them down to a smaller size is key. Stick to a 1:1 ratio when using them as a swap.
They’re great for recipes that need less liquid. We’ve noticed they’re a bit less juicy, which keeps sauces thick and consistent.
Plum tomatoes are super adaptable. They work in so many recipes without missing a beat. A solid option that fits perfectly when cherry tomatoes aren’t around.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.