Incorporate fresh tomatoes into your summer meals

Story by Stone Hollow Farmstead

Photos by Dawn Harrison

Summer is such a great season. It gives us a bounty of fresh herbs, fruits, and veggies that easily create a delicious meal. Recipes aren’t even needed! However, if you are looking for great ideas for your locally grown tomatoes, try these recipes from Stone Hollow Farmstead.

This month, Stone Hollow Farmstead will host a Tomato Festival. The festival is scheduled for July 18 and will begin at Pepper Place Farmers Market, located at 2829 2^nd Avenue South in Birmingham, with a kids tomato recipe contest and chef cooking demonstrations using locally grown tomatoes.

At 4 p.m., the festival will move to Stone Hollow Farmstead in Harpersville for more delicious tomato treats and a chance to meet the farmers who grow these beautiful heirloom varieties of tomatoes. You can also shop with local artisan makers, enjoy live music, and end the night by sitting down together for a farm to table dinner.

Tickets will be available at Stonehollowfarmstead.com or by calling The Pantry by Stone Hollow Farm at 205-803-3585. Stone Hollow Farmstead is located at 2006 Dead Hollow Road, Harpersville, 35078. For more information, call 800-285-8950.

Raw Tomato Soup

Serves 4

10-12  Fresh, ripe tomatoes, cored

Several sprigs of fresh herbs of your choice, basil or thyme are recommended

Salt and pepper to taste

Blend tomatoes in a bowl with a hand blender or in a vitamix. Add herbs, salt and pepper. This dish can be served hot or cold.

 

Tomato & Cucumber Summer Salad

Serves four

2-3 English cucumbers, seeded and cut into slices

4 Tomatoes, seeded and sliced

Remove the seeds from the cucumbers and tomatoes and cut into slices. Drizzle ingredients with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and balsamic vinegar. Top with fresh goat cheese and black pepper.