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Heirloom Tomato Salad Course: Salads
Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Dairy Free, Vegan

Heirloom is the name of a whole category of unique tomato varieties that have been passed down from gardener to gardener. Unlike modern hybrid varieties, heirloom tomatoes are old-fashioned and retain their original distinguishing characteristics when grown from seed. 

The variety of flavors in heirloom tomatoes tends to surprise many people and their distinct flavors are perfect for simple salads. We are lucky to have Pierce Family Farm, Willow Creek Farms, Neukom Family Farm and Luna Farm providing a large variety of heirloom tomatoes for you to taste.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium heirloom tomatoes (the more color variety the better)
  • 1-2 jalapeno and/or Serrano chilies, finely chopped (leave the seeds and ribs in for higher heat)
  • 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • ¼-½ teaspoon cumin seed, toasted and roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Toast cumin seeds: heat a small pan (no oil) over medium high heat. Add the cumin seeds and toast for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often. They’re done when they become aromatic. Remove from heat and chop roughly with a knife. Set aside and prepare the rest of the salad.

  2. Slice the Heirloom tomatoes to about ¼ inch thickness and place in a medium to large bowl. 

  3. Add the chopped jalapeno and/or Serrano chilies, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper (to taste). Gently fold all of the ingredients together, careful not to crush the tomatoes. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, then drain excess juice.

  4. Plate the salad and drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil and serve right away.

Recipes you might like:
Cherry Tomato Salsa
Summer Black-Eyed Pea Salad
Local Pepper Salad
Pinto Bean Salad
Citrus Salad with Spiced Cardamom Honey