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Fresh Heirloom Tomato Sauce

Every year I grow as many heirloom tomatoes as I can possibly squeeze into my little garden. Growing tomatoes here in Portland is a point of pride to gardeners and the arrival of the first ripe tomatoes is a cause for celebration. This recipe works with any herbs you have growing in your containers or yard. Try a combination of flavored mint with a hint of minced rosemary, or fresh basil. Growing herbs in pots on your patio or garden ensures you have a supply year-round. Try growing basil between your tomato plants, I swear the tomatoes pick up the scent! Make this dish with colorful heirloom tomatoes for a beautiful presentation. ~

Serves 4
  • 2

    cups ripe heirloom tomatoes, chopped

  •  

    minced fresh mint leaves

  •  

    minced fresh rosemary

  • 2-4

    cloves garlic, peeled and grated with the Microplane grater

  •  

    red chili pepper flakes to taste

  • 1/4

    cup fruity extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1

    pound pasta, boiled

  •  

    grated Fontina, Provolone or Parmigiano-Reggiano to taste

  •  

    salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, fresh herbs, garlic, red chili pepper flakes and olive oil. Cover and let set at room temperature for an hour for the flavors to develop.

Toss this sauce with drained boiled pasta and some grated cheese. Season to taste then enjoy summer’s bounty!

Cook’s Notes: Rosemary is such an assertive flavor, I use it to enhance the mint leaves - let your taste be your guide.

Basil: 1/2 to 2/3 cup (packed) fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, is a great substitute for mint and rosemary.

Pasta: I like to use a pasta shape that catches all of the luscious flavors, such as farfalle, penne
or rigatoni.
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