From time to time, I’m asked about tomato recipes. From the outset, I tell people that I’m not a gourmet cook and the way I judge tomato recipes is pretty simple. I like tomato recipes that are quick and easy to make, and don’t contain cilantro. Of course, there’s no reason why my distaste for cilantro should be your problem. If you like salsa, you probably like cilantro. And one more thing – a tomato recipe is a non-starter if it doesn’t showcase the natural flavor of a fresh tomato.
Most of my top 10 ways to enjoy tomatoes involve a recipe, but not all. My number one choice certainly won’t surprise anyone who knows me.
10. Tomato Vinaigrette.
In a blender, combine a chopped 4-ounce tomato, 2 tablespoons of vinegar (white wine or balsamic), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and your favorite herbs such as basil, thyme and garlic.
9. Quick Tomato Salad.
Quarter tomatoes and marinate with onion in your favorite low-fat vinaigrette. Add some sliced cucumber for some extra crunch. You can use any type of tomato. You’ll love it.
8. The Breakfast Mediterranean.
Slice an English muffin in half and toast it. Spread with cream cheese and cover with thinly-sliced tomatoes of your choice. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. What a way to start your day!
7. Roasted Tomatoes.
Slice grape or cherry tomatoes in half and place on a cookie sheet, cut-side up. Sprinkle with a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and ground pepper. Bake at 250 degrees for 2-3 hours. Serve at room temperature as a side dish, as a salad with a dash of balsamic vinegar or on cooked pasta.
6. Stuffed Tomato.
Stuff a large tomato on the vine with cottage cheese or with tuna, shrimp, or chicken salad. Use the pulp as part of the salad.
5. A Tangy Salsa.
Chopped fresh tomatoes, finely chopped jalapeno peppers, chopped cucumber, 1 small onion, chopped cilantro and lime juice. Can also be used on top of greens or as a salad by itself. Be creative and add other ingredients such as black beans, corn or chopped olives.
4. Baked Tomato Side Dish.
Slice Beefsteak tomatoes a ½ inch thick. Sprinkle with seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Bake at 350 until tomatoes are almost soft.
3. Gazpacho.
Finely dice fresh Roma tomatoes, cucumbers, green onion, and green and/or red peppers. Add to tomato juice with 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil and a splash of cider vinegar. Ingredients can be added to a blender and pulsed one or two times.
2. Beyond Tomato Sauce.
Slice fresh tomatoes and top your pizza.
1. Fresh and Sweet.
Nothing is better than a tomato fresh from the vine!
For more tomato recipes check out:
http://localfoods.about.com/od/tomatoes/tp/QuickTomatoes.htm
http://www.besthealthmag.ca/eat-well/cooking/10-ways-to-cook-tomatoes
http://www.womanandhome.com/galleries/food/recipes/13407/1/0/10-tomato-recipes.html
With my regards,
