Grape tomatoes are smaller than cherry tomatoes and have thicker skins, which helps them stay fresh longer. They were first bred in Southeast Asia and introduced to the U.S. in the 1990s. Despite their size, grape tomatoes pack more crunch than most larger varieties.

Grape tomatoes grow in clusters, much like grapes, which is how they got their name. They’re often the top choice for salads because they don’t get mushy easily. Kids love them because they’re bite-sized and sweet like little veggie candies.

In blind taste tests, many people can’t tell grape tomatoes apart from cherry tomatoes. Florida is one of the biggest producers of grape tomatoes in the United States. A single plant can produce dozens of grape tomatoes throughout the season.

Unlike bigger tomatoes, grape tomatoes can be eaten like snacks right off the vine. You don’t need to peel or slice them, which makes them perfect for lunchboxes. Some farmers say grape tomatoes are less prone to cracking than cherry varieties.

They come in red, yellow, and even dark purple shades. The sweetness level can change depending on how much sun the plant gets. The skin of grape tomatoes helps lock in the juice, giving them a pop when you bite in.

Tomato lovers often grow grape tomatoes in hanging baskets or pots on balconies. They’re considered a “gateway” crop for beginner gardeners because they’re easy to grow. Grape tomatoes pictures on seed packets are often exaggerated in size—don’t be fooled.

Grape tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart and skin health. They’re about 95% water, which makes them super hydrating in summer. If you roast grape tomatoes, they become even sweeter and caramelized.

They’re often used whole in pasta dishes because they hold their shape well. Birds and squirrels also enjoy grape tomatoes, sometimes more than humans. The name “grape” is a marketing term—it makes them sound more appealing.

Some chefs prefer grape tomatoes over larger ones for their consistent taste. They ripen gradually, so you can harvest over weeks rather than all at once. Grape tomatoes pictures on social media often feature them in rustic baskets or on wooden boards.

Farmers markets often sell grape tomatoes in pint-sized containers. When stored at room temperature, they taste better than if kept in the fridge. They’re great for making quick tomato confit with garlic and olive oil.

Some varieties are bred to be extra firm for better shipping. You can freeze grape tomatoes, but they’ll be mushy once thawed—better for soups. One cup of grape tomatoes has only about 30 calories.

The grape tomato craze really took off in the early 2000s. You can find grape tomatoes in almost every grocery store year-round. In school gardens, grape tomatoes are often the first veggies kids harvest.

They grow best with six or more hours of sun per day. Tomato hornworms also like grape tomatoes—watch out for them in the garden. Some gardeners use crushed eggshells to keep pests away from their tomato plants.

Grape tomatoes don’t require staking if grown in containers, but they appreciate it. They’re related to nightshade plants, just like potatoes and eggplants. If a grape tomato splits, it’s usually because it absorbed too much water too quickly.

Tomatoes originated in South America but took centuries to gain popularity in Europe. You can use grape tomatoes to make small-batch salsa that doesn’t need cooking. Dried grape tomatoes have a chewy, tangy flavor that’s perfect for hiking snacks.

Grape tomatoes pictures are often used in recipe blogs to brighten up the visuals. They’re frequently part of Mediterranean diets and pair well with basil and mozzarella. In Japan, some grape tomato varieties are even bred for extra sweetness.

They’re great in skewers because they hold up to grilling heat. Grape tomatoes are often hand-picked to avoid bruising. Their small size means they ripen a bit faster than bigger tomato types.

Some people freeze roasted grape tomatoes in ice cube trays for later use. You can dry grape tomatoes in the oven at low heat to preserve them. Grape tomatoes have inspired mini gardening kits for apartment dwellers.

Many Instagram users post grape tomatoes pictures during summer harvests. They’re a popular ingredient in bento boxes thanks to their size and color. You can even pickle grape tomatoes with vinegar, garlic, and dill.

They’re sometimes confused with plum tomatoes, but the taste and texture are different. In cooking competitions, chefs often choose grape tomatoes for their predictable flavor. Grape tomatoes pictures are a colorful way to show off freshness and simplicity.