About the Tomatoes

Almost everything we plant in earthboxes seems to sprout up in giant quantities that dwarf our little sun drenched patio that's half kids' play area and half growing things -- all sorts of peppers, Japanese eggplant, chives...but as for the tomatoes, I'm convinced it is the gardener's heart of love to please his wife that makes them grow:  first the sweet 100s, then the heirlooms, and now the romas.  Tender tomatoes, fresh herbs, and roses that bloom even in December are the perfect minimalist answer to my garden yearnings.  Not to mention a handsome gardener who repeatedly says "As you wish..." without using any words.

A few of my favorite ways to eat fresh tomatoes (besides straight up with salt):

Pa Amb Tomaquet (excellent even with subpar tomatoes)
Artichoke Bruschetta
Simple Tomato Sandwich
Simple Tomato & Avocado Salad
Insalata Caprese (sometimes we add anchovies)
La Madeleine's Tomato-Basil Soup
Tomato Pasta (my recipe)
No Cook Puttanesca Sauce with Linguine
Tomato Eggplant Casserole

Tomato Toast

Tomato Pasta

Caprese