Mixed Tomato Salad

Every year I grow tomatoes. Since we really only have a deck to use to grow the tomatoes, I tend to stick to the varieties that can grow in containers, which means they are usually the smaller tomatoes.  So, every year I love going to my local farmer's markets and supplementing my tomato supply with even more tomatoes.  The funny thing is, I tend to always find myself buying cherry or grape tomatoes-I think they are just so much sweeter and more flavorful than the larger varieties.  The result is that I often end up with more tomatoes than I know what to do with.

One recent trip to the farmer's market resulted in me coming home with lots of tomatoes.  I saw this recipe in a cookbook and it caught my eye-I love all the colors! What I really liked about this was that I thought it was a great side dish for summer and can get paired with pretty much anything.  On this night, I paired it with chicken burgers.  I really find that I often run out of ideas for side dishes in the summer to pair with burgers, sandwiches and grilled dishes-how many times can you have fries?

After making it, I decided that it was just as good tasting as it was good looking.  The simple vinaigrette dressing really lets the flavors of the sweet tomatoes shine through.  I also think this would make a great main dish salad paired with some grilled chicken.

Mixed Tomato Salad

2 pounds mixed tomatoes, such as red or yellow beefsteak, cherry, grape, and pear

3 tablespoons red-wine vinegar

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Coarse salt and ground pepper

1 bunch arugula (6 to 8 ounces), washed well and dried

If using large tomatoes, core them and cut into wedges. Halve grape and cherry tomatoes-the point is to try to get all the tomatoes to be about the same size.

Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar and oil; season to taste with salt and pepper. In a large bowl, toss arugula with half the dressing. Divide arugula and tomatoes evenly among serving plates; drizzle tomatoes with remaining dressing. Serve immediately.

Source: Everyday Food: Great Food Fast