Red Grape tomatoes are bright to dark red in color with a firm, smooth skin, and a shape similar to that of an olive or grape. Like the cherry tomato, Red Grape tomatoes are small and flavor-fully sweet, however they have a thicker skin that is crack resistant, handling packing and shipping better with a longer shelf life. As the name implies, these tomatoes grow in grape-like bunches of about twenty on indeterminate plants, which continue to grow, set fruit, and ripen until a frost arrives. Also known as vining types, they require staking or other support. They are extremely easy to grow, although harvesting may be labor intensive.
Red Grape tomatoes are available year-round with a peak season during late summer.
Red Grape tomatoes are first and foremost great for snacking on fresh, and they are quintessential for use in salads and fresh salsas. They can be used in nearly any recipe that calls for cherry tomatoes, or tomatoes in general. Mature fruits can be processed and cooked to make ketchup, compotes and jams. They can also be blanched, pureed, and made into soups, sauces and sorbets. Pair Red Grape tomatoes with other ingredients that are fresh and in season. Store Red Grape tomatoes at room temperature for approximately two to three days, or until ripe, after which refrigeration can slow the process of decay and prevent further ripening.
