Guess what? We're eating lots of grilled corn and tomatoes around here, savoring the flavors of late summer as long as we possibly can. This time our homegrown tomatoes appear in a salad with balsamic vinaigrette, and Dave threw a chicken on the grill to make the whole deal even better.
Tomato Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Obviously this salad should be made from tomatoes picked off your own plants at the peak of the season or bought from your favorite farmer at the market. Different colors, sizes and types make it fun. Oh, and this is great served with bread, since the tomato juice and dressing in the bottom of the bowl is awesome for sopping.
2 tsp. garlic, minced
1/4 c. aged balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
3/4 c. olive oil
4-6 c. tomatoes, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Put garlic into small mixing bowl. Add Dijon and vinegar and whisk to combine. Sloooowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking like mad (this is best accomplished with help from an assistant, but it can be managed by yourself). The aim is to emulsify the mixture so the texture is thick and looks like peanut butter.
Put tomatoes in large salad bowl. Pour 1/2 c. of dressing over top and toss. Salt and pepper to taste. (Adjust amount of dressing to your liking.)
That is it. I haven't grown tomatoes for the last five years, but this summer I am really missing the homegrown ones! Supermarket tomatoes just don't have the same flavor. I'm going to have to plant tomatoes next year!
ReplyDeleteYour dinner looks delicious; I love lazy summer food.
You weren't missing much the last couple of years, tomato-speaking-wise, but this year has been a good one. I'd say go for it!
ReplyDeleteAlso, your farmers' market is always a good alternative for flavorful tomatoes in season. Because we use our homegrown tomatoes for slicing, salads, etc., I'm going to buy a box or two from the market and make sauce for the winter.