How to Dice a Tomato: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Dicing a tomato is a simple yet essential skill in the kitchen. Whether you’re making fresh salsa, salads, tacos, or pasta sauces, knowing how to dice a tomato properly can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through four different ways to dice a tomato, depending on how firm or juicy it is.

What You’ll Need

Click here for a super sharp chef knife we recommend

Before you start, make sure you have:

✔ A sharp knife – A chef’s knife or serrated knife works best.

✔ A cutting board – Preferably one that won’t slide.

✔ A spoon (optional) – Useful if you need to remove the seeds.

✔ Paper towels (optional) – To absorb extra juice and reduce mess.

Method 1: The Basic Dicing Method (Best for Most Uses)

This is the easiest and most common way to dice a tomato.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut off the top – Slice off the stem end and discard it.
2. Slice the tomato in half – Cut it lengthwise for better stability.
3. Lay it cut-side down – This keeps it from rolling.
4. Make vertical slices – Cut straight down into even strips.
5. Rotate and slice again – Turn the strips and chop crosswise to create cubes.

💡 Best for: Everyday recipes, salads, tacos, omelets.

Method 2: The Grid Method (For Firm Tomatoes & Perfect Cubes)

If you need evenly sized cubes (like for a presentation-worthy dish), this method is ideal.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Slice off the top and place the tomato flat-side down.
2. Make vertical cuts, but don’t cut all the way through.
3. Turn the tomato 90 degrees and make horizontal cuts (again, not all the way through).
4. Slice downward – As you cut down, the pieces will naturally fall into evenly diced cubes.

💡 Best for: Precise, uniform pieces for salads and gourmet dishes.

Method 3: The Scoop and Dice Method (For Juicy Tomatoes)

Juicy tomatoes can make a dish too watery. This method removes excess liquid before dicing.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut the tomato in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
2. Press gently to flatten it slightly for easier chopping.
3. Cut into thin strips, then dice into cubes.

💡 Best for: Fresh salsa, bruschetta, sandwiches (less sogginess!).

Method 4: The Quick Chop Method (For Soft Tomatoes or Salsa)

If you’re making a dish where precision doesn’t matter, you can dice tomatoes quickly using this method.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Roughly chop the tomato into chunks.
2. Use a large knife and keep chopping until the pieces reach your desired size.

💡 Best for: Making salsa, sauces, or stews where texture isn’t as important.

Tips for Perfectly Diced Tomatoes

✔ Use a serrated knife for extra soft tomatoes – it grips the skin better.

✔ Chill the tomato for a few minutes before cutting to reduce mess.

✔ Remove the seeds if you want less liquid in your dish.

✔ Choose the right method based on whether you need precise cubes or just quick chopped pieces.

FAQs About Dicing Tomatoes

What’s the best knife for dicing tomatoes?

A sharp chef’s knife works well, but a serrated knife is best for soft, ripe tomatoes.

Should I remove the tomato seeds before dicing?

It depends! Removing them helps reduce excess juice, which is great for sandwiches or bruschetta, but leaving them in adds flavor for salsa and soups.

Can I dice a tomato without a knife?

Yes! You can use a food processor for a rough chop, but it won’t be precise.

Conclusion

Now that you know multiple ways to dice a tomato, try using the method that works best for your recipe! Whether you need neat, even cubes or quick chopped pieces, these techniques will help you dice tomatoes like a pro.