fresh tomatoes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fresh tomatoes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to tomatoes that are newly harvested and not processed or preserved, often in the context of cooking or grocery shopping. Example: "For the best flavor in your salad, make sure to use fresh tomatoes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They taste like fresh tomatoes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Make a tomato sauce from fresh tomatoes.

The New York Times - Food

("Salad, fresh tomatoes," the first lady added).

The New York Times

— Julia Moskin Elizabeth Minchilli in Rome: Got fresh tomatoes?

The New York Times

Long and slow, then fresh tomatoes in there.

The New York Times - Food

For fresh tomatoes, the challenge comes from Mexico.

The New York Times

Add the fresh tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

My pizza is good, because I use fresh tomatoes.

The New York Times

The touted shrimp were wonderful with fresh tomatoes on vermicelli.

The New York Times - Travel

I even use them myself when fresh tomatoes are scarce.

The Guardian

DURING tomato season, I produce a dish of pasta with fresh tomatoes at least weekly.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing recipes, mention if the 'fresh tomatoes' should be peeled and seeded to provide clarity to the readers and avoid misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "fresh tomatoes" redundantly when the context already implies freshness. For example, instead of saying "a salad with fresh ingredients including fresh tomatoes", simply state "a salad with fresh ingredients, including tomatoes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fresh tomatoes" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It modifies the noun "tomatoes" with the adjective "fresh", indicating a specific quality. Ludwig shows its use in describing ingredients or produce quality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

22%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fresh tomatoes" is a grammatically correct and very common noun phrase used to describe the quality of tomatoes. As Ludwig AI suggests, its primary function is to specify that the tomatoes are recently harvested and unprocessed, making them desirable for various culinary purposes. The phrase is versatile and can be used in neutral register, appearing in diverse sources like news articles, recipes, and scientific publications. To improve your writing, consider using more descriptive varieties of tomatoes, and make sure the context clarifies the freshness of tomatoes. Also, consider similar alternatives such as "ripe tomatoes", "garden-fresh tomatoes" or "locally grown tomatoes" to provide a more detailed description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ripe tomatoes

Emphasizes the maturity and readiness of the tomatoes, implying freshness.

garden-fresh tomatoes

Highlights the origin and immediate availability from a garden.

locally grown tomatoes

Focuses on the geographical origin, suggesting freshness and support for local agriculture.

vine-ripened tomatoes

Specifies that the tomatoes were allowed to ripen on the vine, enhancing flavor and freshness.

newly picked tomatoes

Highlights the recent harvest, directly indicating freshness.

sun-ripened tomatoes

Emphasizes the natural ripening process under the sun, suggesting sweetness and freshness.

organic tomatoes

Focuses on the cultivation method, implying purity and natural freshness.

freshly harvested tomatoes

Reiterates the recent harvesting, ensuring the tomatoes are fresh.

premium quality tomatoes

Highlights a select grade implying superior freshness and taste.

unprocessed tomatoes

Indicates that the tomatoes have not undergone any form of industrial treatment, maintaining their natural state.

FAQs

How can I use "fresh tomatoes" in a sentence?

You can use "fresh tomatoes" to describe ingredients in recipes, such as, "This sauce is best when made with "fresh tomatoes"." Or when describing the quality of produce at a market, like, "The market is well-stocked with "fresh tomatoes", okra, onions and bread."

What are some alternatives to saying "fresh tomatoes"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "ripe tomatoes", "garden-fresh tomatoes", or "locally grown tomatoes" to convey a similar meaning. These options provide a more specific description of the tomatoes' qualities or origin.

Is it always better to use "fresh tomatoes" instead of canned?

Not always. While "fresh tomatoes" are often preferred for their taste and texture, canned tomatoes can be a convenient and sometimes more flavorful option, especially when "fresh tomatoes" are out of season or for slow-cooked sauces.

What characteristics define "fresh tomatoes"?

Fresh tomatoes typically have a firm texture, a vibrant color, and a fragrant aroma. They should have taught, shiny skin and give slightly when squeezed, but not feel mushy. Vine-ripened or locally grown tomatoes often exhibit these qualities more prominently.