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Heirloom tomatoes substitutes

Heirloom tomatoes substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount

Use thisBest of 6 options

Use Cherry tomatoes

Same amount as the heirloom tomatoes

Similar tomatoes with different flavor.

The best substitutes for heirloom tomatoes are cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, or other small tomatoes like plum tomatoes or cocktail tomatoes, depending on the use.

Verdict —
Tweak it
What changes —
different taste, similar texture
Best for —
cooking

Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps

Every option, one card

Ranked
Heirloom Tomatoes substitutes compared
SubstituteInstead of heirloom tomatoes
Cherry tomatoescookingSame amountTweak it
Grape tomatoescookingSame amountTweak it
Plum tomatoescookingSame amountTweak it
Cocktail tomatoescookingSame amountTweak it
Pear tomatoescookingSame amountTweak it
Regular tomatoescookingSame amountTweak it
What changes6 options

Cherry tomatoes

different taste, similar texture

Similar tomatoes with different flavor.

Best for
cooking, roasting, grilling, stir-fries

Different flavor, similar texture.

Grape tomatoes

different taste, similar texture

Similar tomatoes with different flavor.

Best for
cooking, roasting, grilling, stir-fries

Different flavor, similar texture.

Plum tomatoes

different taste, similar texture

Similar tomatoes with different flavor.

Best for
cooking, roasting, grilling, stir-fries

Different flavor, similar texture.

Cocktail tomatoes

different taste, similar texture

Similar tomatoes with different flavor.

Best for
cooking, roasting, grilling, stir-fries

Different flavor, similar texture.

Pear tomatoes

different taste, similar texture

Similar tomatoes with different flavor.

Best for
cooking, roasting, grilling, stir-fries

Different flavor, similar texture.

Regular tomatoes

different taste, similar texture

Similar tomatoes with different flavor.

Best for
cooking, roasting, grilling, stir-fries

Different flavor, similar texture.

Questions

4 questions

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of heirloom tomatoes?

Yes, cherry tomatoes are a good substitute for heirloom tomatoes. They have similar texture and can be used in most recipes that call for heirloom tomatoes.

What's the difference between heirloom tomatoes and cherry tomatoes?

Heirloom tomatoes are heritage varieties with unique flavor, while cherry tomatoes are small and have intense flavor. Both have similar texture and can be used interchangeably.

Can I use grape tomatoes instead of heirloom tomatoes?

Yes, grape tomatoes can work as a substitute, though they may have a different flavor. They have similar texture and can be used in most recipes.

Why are heirloom tomatoes so popular in cooking?

Heirloom tomatoes are popular in cooking because they add unique, heritage flavor and are easy to use in many recipes.

Tips for substituting heirloom tomatoes

6 tips
  1. Heirloom tomatoes add unique, heritage flavor to dishes
  2. Heirloom tomatoes can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
  3. Heirloom tomatoes pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
  4. Heirloom tomatoes works well in roasting and grilling
  5. Heirloom tomatoes can be used to make salads and stir-fries
  6. Store heirloom tomatoes in the refrigerator

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