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A hand holding a serving spoon and serving the finished tomato carpaccio

Tomato Carpaccio

Tomato Carpaccio is a simple yet elegant Mediterranean inspired dish that transforms ripe, juicy tomatoes into a gourmet appetizer or side. Inspired by the Italian classic beef carpaccio, this is a vegetarian version. It layers thinly sliced tomatoes with olive oil, herbs, sea salt, and pistachios for a refreshing, colorful plate that celebrates peak seasonal produce.
Course Appetizer, lunch, side, Snack
Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean
Keyword Carpaccio, carpaccio recipe, carpaccio recipes, how to make carpaccio, Tomato carpaccio, Tomato Carpaccio Recipe, tomato recipes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 231 kcal
Author Mahy

Ingredients

Tomatoes

  • 5 Heirloom Tomatoes Variety colors, thinly sliced

Toppings

  • 1 Red onin thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons capers mini
  • 2 Tablespoons olives diced
  • 2 Tablespoons herbs basil, parsley
  • 2 1/2 Tablespoons Pistachios roughly chopped

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup Olive oil quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt and pepper
  • 1 tabelspoon balsamic vinegar optional, or lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tomatoes. Wash them and pat dry, and use a serrated knife or a super sharp knife, alternatively you can use a mandolin slicer. Slice tomatoes very thin.
    Making the tomato carpaccio recipe: A hand slicing the heirloom tomatoes using a sharp knife on a board
  2. Arrange the colored tomatoes overlapping in a large bowl.
    overlapping multicolored heirloom tomatoes on a bowl
  3. Add the toppings like onions, olives, capers and pistachios.
  4. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. LIKE GENEROUSLY!
    All the toppings added over the tomato carpaccio plate
  5. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
    dressing or balsamic vinegar or olive oil only poured over the carpaccio
  6. Top with more fresh herbs and optional add-ons like Parmesan, anchovies, garlic, lemon zest or lemon juice.
    A hand holding a serving spoon and serving the finished tomato carpaccio
  7. Serve immediately as an appetizer, side salad, or light lunch with crusty bread.

Recipe Video

Recipe Notes

Tips for the Best Tomato Carpaccio

  1. Choose in-season ripe tomatoes. This recipe depends on the quality of seasonal tomatoes, so make sure your pick the best. 
  2. Use a serrated knife or sharp knife/mandolin to slice the tomatoes evenly.
  3. If you're not serving right away, use chilled plates to keep tomatoes fresh and firm.
  4. Don’t skimp on olive oil! Use quality olive oil, it’s the main flavor booster.
  5. Be creative with toppings and substitutes! this recipe is super forgiving.
  6. Make this your summer side dish or appetizer with some rusty bread--it's so easy to put together!

FAQ

What is tomato carpaccio made of?

It’s a vegetarian dish made from thinly sliced tomatoes, olive oil, herbs, and simple seasonings, inspired by the traditional Italian beef carpaccio. Similar to our Watermelon Carpaccio, this is a vegetarian and perfect side dish version.

What type of tomatoes are best for carpaccio?

Heirloom, beefsteak, or any large, ripe, and flavorful tomato variety works best. You can even use cherry tomatoes, slice them thinly and use multicolors.

Can I make tomato carpaccio ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can slice tomatoes an hour ahead and store them in the fridge, adding olive oil and seasonings just before serving. Consider using chilled plates to maintain freshness.

Is tomato carpaccio healthy?

Yes! It’s naturally low in calories, rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats from olive oil.

What can I serve with tomato carpaccio?

Pair it with crusty bread, grilled seafood, or cheese boards for a balanced meal.

How to Serve Tomato Carpaccio?

  • As an appetizer -Serve on a chilled plate before a main course.
  • With burrata – It takes it to the next level.
  • On a mezze platter – Alongside olives, hummus, and grilled veggies.
  • With Bread- Makes the perfect light lunch on a bed of greens too!
Nutrition Facts
Tomato Carpaccio
Amount Per Serving
Calories 231 Calories from Fat 189
% Daily Value*
Fat 21g32%
Saturated Fat 3g19%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3g
Monounsaturated Fat 15g
Sodium 681mg30%
Potassium 458mg13%
Carbohydrates 10g3%
Fiber 3g13%
Sugar 6g7%
Protein 3g6%
Vitamin A 1371IU27%
Vitamin C 24mg29%
Calcium 31mg3%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.