Tomatoes are a favorite summertime treat. There’s nothing like placing a piece of juicy, ripe tomato into your mouth on a hot day. Since variety is the spice of life, here are a few ways you can enjoy your tomatoes this season.
Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes sliced thickly, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with olive oil and maybe a little balsamic vinegar is perfect to snack on or bring to a cookout. Sprinkle on some salt to bring out even more of the flavors.
Tomatoes on the Grill
Tomatoes on the grill bring out a smoky taste. They are perfect on the side with steaks, kabobs, or hamburgers. Simply slice them thickly and put them on the grill for three minutes on each side.
Salsa/Bruschetta
This salsa/bruschetta is perfect for chips and on top of burgers or pasta. Dice the tomatoes, chop up garlic, combine them, and then season with salt and pepper. You can add more flavors to it by adding bits of mozzarella cheese, red pepper flakes, basil, oregano, and even black olives. Drizzle all of it with olive oil.
Skillet Tomatoes with Melted Cheese
Cheese lovers will enjoy this dish. Simply cut the tomatoes thickly, and then place in a pan coated with olive oil. Allow them to sear on each side, and then place a small amount of shredded cheese on the top of each one (gruyere, mozzarella, or parmesan works well). Finish it with beautiful chopped basil sprinkled on top of each one.
Open Faced Tomato Sandwich
Slice a tomato thickly. Use two slices for the “bread.” Place feta, mozzarella, or another cheese you love on top of one slice. Then add basil, oregano, or another herb you enjoy on top of the cheese. Drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar. Place the second slice of tomato on top to complete the sandwich.
Tomato Tuna Cup
Prepare tuna just the way you like it. Cut a tomato in half and scoop out the insides of it. Don’t throw it away because you can use it in tomato-based recipes. Once each side is cleaned out, scoop tuna into it. Top with lettuce and cheese, if you desire.
Tomato Avocado Tower
Cut a tomato and avocado thickly then stack the slices on top of each other alternating between the two. Repeat this until you are out of slices. Drizzle the tower with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
With these tomato recipes, you can enjoy tomatoes all summer long. They will cool you down, provide nutrition, and add to those wonderful summertime memories. Grab some delicious tomatoes at the store today!
Noelle Renee Allen
