7.30.2011

Summer Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes and Arugula

Something about having an entire heirloom tomato to one's self feels incredibly indulgent, and wonderful!

Heirloom tomatoes, by definition, are open-pollinated cultivars (a plant selected for desirable characteristics that can be maintained by propagation - unlike varieties of GMO produce that have been bred to lack seeds). A true heirloom is a cultivar that has been nurtured, selected, and handed down by family members for many generations.

Typically, I've been enjoying salads with baby arugula as the base, but on this occasion, shortly after returning from my local Farmer's market, I decided to have some fun with this "Cherokee purple" tomato:

First, I sliced it into big, beautiful wedges.

Then, just a sprinkle of organic baby arugula to add texture and a mild peppery flavor, plus a generous drizzle of olive oil.

Next, lemon zest to give it some extra zip!

And, finally, some fresh walnut halves to add texture, crunch and heart-healthy fat; and some freshly ground salt & pepper to taste.

Oh, my, goodness. Num num num num num.