Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) Ripe Tomatoes (Heirloom, Roma, or large Cherry/Plum)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) Red Wine Vinegar
- 3 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced finely
- 1/2 cup, packed (15g) Fresh Basil Leaves, roughly chopped or torn
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Oregano Leaves, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (plus extra for initial drawing)
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Gently wash and thoroughly dry all tomatoes. Slice larger tomatoes into sturdy rounds (about 1/4 inch thick). Halve or quarter smaller cherry/plum tomatoes.
- Place the prepared tomatoes in a large non-reactive bowl. Sprinkle evenly with about half of the Kosher Salt. Gently toss. Let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess water.
- While tomatoes rest, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar (if using), remaining salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and oregano in a small bowl until emulsified.
- After 15 minutes, pour the prepared vinaigrette evenly over the tomatoes. Gently fold everything together using a spatula to ensure all slices are coated.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or large jar. Seal and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, but preferably overnight, turning the container gently once or twice during the first hour.
- Allow the tomatoes to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving to let the flavour profile open up.