Saturday, February 7, 2009

Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad



I made the most wonderful dinner tonight. And the whole dinner was tomatoes. And, I am ashamed to say, I ate the whole thing! First off, I have to tell you my favorite chef is Ina Garten, of Barefoot Contessa fame. If you have never watched her on the Food Channel, you are missing out. She reminds me of, well, ME. Some people imitate Angelina Jolie (unnamed mother of 14), but I emulate Ina Garten. She has the perfect kitchen. Not too big, not too small. Her stove has double ovens, and every quality ingredient is within a few steps. She has the most exquisite garden, and only uses fresh herbs, which she grows herself. I have most of her cookbooks, but they are in storage in Minnesota. (Many of the recipes have too much fat for everyday use, but are wonderful for entertaining or special occasions.) So the other day, at the bookstore, I decided to treat myself to her latest cookbook. (After all I am cooking at home more, right?) I think it just might be her best, because all the ingredients are simple. They seem to be healthier, too

Anyway, on to tonight's dinner. It was nothing more than 12 roasted plum tomatoes (I did six) with  1/4 C olive oil, 1 1/2 Tb balsamic vinegar,  2 garlic cloves - minced, 2 t sugar, kosher salt, fresh black pepper. Cut the tomatoes in half, drizzle with the olive oil mixture, sprinkle with salt and pepper and bake @275 for two hours. Bring to room temperature. You can then put them with fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, and have a caprese salad. Orrrr do as I did and just put the tomatoes with french bread and call it good. It was just wonderful. My husband, happy to have "Every Man For Himself Night" chose a hot dog sandwich over my roasted tomatoes. His bad.

I should have taken a picture of them before they were devoured, but I had no idea they would be so good that I would want to blog about them. I am trying new recipes, building myself up to a party. Yep, I think it is time - no excuses - we are near enough to lots of friends to invite, the remodel is finished (well mostly), and it's time to chase the winter blues. I'll let you know how it goes.

6 comments:

Faithful said...

i love Ina and love the ease of her cooking!(you do remind me of her..not only in the similiar way you cook..but by the presentation of your meals, your hospitality to your guests, and your enjoyment in sharing a meal with your husband) i also love Caprese salad.. i make it often but have never roasted the tomatoes..sounds wonderful.

susan said...

It sounds delicious. I'd ask to be included in your party guest list but since we're so far away I'll have to try it myself. I'll have a glass of wine to your good health instead.

Tess Kincaid said...

I absolutely adore Ina! And every single recipe I've made of hers has been wonderful. This sounds great. Have you tried her ginger chicken? It's a regular around the manor.

Reya Mellicker said...

I love the Barefoot Contessa. She is so normal and natural - and her recipes are delicious. We have one of her party cookbooks. The recipes never fail.

Dreamed about Tahoe last night, something that hasn't happened for a long time. Is it still crystal clear?

Nancy said...

Hi Willow - no I haven't tried the ginger chicken, but will see if I can get the recipe from Food Network. I know it is in one of the cookbooks - probably in storage. Thanks for the tip.

Hi Susan, wish you could stop by, as well. Cheers!

Hi Reya, the Lake is still clear but not AS clear :-(

Hilary said...

That sound just delicious. I wouldn't even allow a hot dog in the same room. ;)