What's For Dinner: Bloody Mary, Tomato Salad And Corn Polenta
Summer's star produce shines in this menu
Not feeling inspired by your usual dishes? Here's what's for dinner.
From sweet Sun Gold to firm Gold Dust, bumpy heirloom tomatoes are taking over market stands. The sweeter cousin to bell peppers and eggplant, this member of the nightshade family is all we're thinking about right about now. When the days are unbearably hot, there's nothing like biting into a plump, juicy tomato—especially when sprinkled with a bit of flaky salt. So make the most out of the season with this tomato-centric menu while the time is ripe.
① Drink: Bloody Mary
Don't try to put Bloody Mary in a brunch corner. With its savory, vegetal qualities and generous pour of vodka, it's just as good past 2 p.m. Garnish with cherry tomatoes for extra flair and flavor.
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② Appetizer: Plum and Tomato Salad with Arugula Pesto and Goat Cheese
Ripe summer stone fruit joins heirloom tomatoes in Sean Brock's ultra-seasonal salad. Tangy goat cheese pairs well with the sweetness of the fruit (yes, tomato is a fruit), while arugula steals basil's spotlight for a different take on pesto.
③ Main Course: Fresh Corn Polenta with Sautéed Cherry Tomatoes
Fresh corn kernels shed their cob for this smooth, satisfying polenta. Pile on the blistered tomatoes and Italian herbs, and you might as well be watching the sun set in Northern Italy.