One of the tastiest things to eat in the summer has got to be a freshly picked tomato. Straight from the vine, popped into your mouth, the sweet juicy taste sensation bursts out, filling your mouth with the most fantastic flavour; I can’t get enough of them.
Heritage or heirloom tomatoes have become increasingly popular recently, not only do they look amazing with their vibrant coloured skins, but most importantly they have a fantastic taste. Infact it is because these tomatoes don’t have a perfect uniform red colour, the flavour is actually sweeter than the genetically modified red tomatoes, whose flavour has been actually sacrificed over colour.
The good news is that since they have become so popular you can now buy these tomatoes in many good greengrocers and supermarkets. A little tip to remember is that they don’t keep as well so eat them within two or three days of purchasing, as they taste much better when eaten slightly on the firm side. Also keep it simple; these tomatoes want to be the star of the dish.
Heritage Tomato Salad
For this salad you really don’t need a recipe. Just slice up as many different types of heritage tomatoes you can find. Drizzle over some good quality olive oil, plenty of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
You can add a few sprigs of basil or a little drizzle of balsamic vinegar if you fancy a little acidity.
Another great way to serve these tomatoes is to slice them up with avocado and serve them on toast which has been rubbed with a little garlic then drizzled with olive oil, sea salt and black pepper.
For a light lunch they are delicious with a few marinated anchovies and a sprinkling of chives.
Heritage Tomato Salad and other recipes…
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