Description

Crispy, smoky, and topped with a garden-fresh salsa, these Smoky Fried Green Tomatoes With Fresh Salsa are the perfect twist on a Southern classic. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, a flavorful side for dinner, or a healthy snack with a kick, this easy recipe brings serious crunch and color to your table. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast — tangy green tomatoes fried to perfection and bright, zesty salsa piled on top. It’s a showstopper for brunch, a hit at parties, and a great addition to your collection of easy dinner ideas.

Ingredients

For the Fried Green Tomatoes:

3 large green tomatoes, sliced ½-inch thick

½ cup buttermilk (or plant-based milk with lemon juice)

1 cup cornmeal

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Fresh Salsa:

1 cup diced ripe tomatoes

¼ cup finely chopped red onion

1 small cucumber, finely diced

1 garlic clove, minced

1 jalapeño, minced

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Juice of 1 lime

Salt to taste

Instructions

Slice green tomatoes into ½-inch rounds. Salt lightly on both sides and let sit for 10–15 minutes. Pat dry.
Set up a breading station: pour buttermilk in one bowl; combine cornmeal, flour, and spices in another.
Dip tomato slices in buttermilk, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture, coating well.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Fry tomato slices in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, onion, cucumber, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix and let rest a few minutes.
Top each fried green tomato with a generous spoonful of salsa. Serve warm.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer