Heirloom Tomatoes ---- LOVE

Gorgeous, multi-colored, unpredictably shaped heirloom tomatoes straight from heaven’s garden. You could bite straight into one of these bad boys and never look at an apple again—completely delicious. Head down to your local farmers market. Ask for heirloom tomatoes and don’t be shocked.  These aren’t your genetically altered, perfectly shaped tomatoes. These beauties range in size, shapes and colors—think purple, yellow, dinosaur (yes, I’m calling that a color). Stock up on an array of shades and head home to the kitchen. Like I said, straight up heirloom tomato is divine, but here are a few other options for the perfect summer treat.

Fresh Tomato and Goat Cheese Strata with Herb Oil 

Ingredients:

* 8 ounces goat cheese, room temperature

* 1/4 cup cream

    * Pinch salt and freshly ground black pepper

    * 3 fresh tomatoes, sliced 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick

    * 1 cup chopped toasted walnuts, for garnish

Herb Oil:

    * 3/4 cup fresh mint

    * 3/4 cup fresh basil

    * 1 cup olive oil

    * Pinch salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

For the Filling: Combine the goat cheese and cream in a medium bowl.
Using an electric mixer, whip together the cheese and the cream.
Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

For the Herb Oil: Combine the herbs in a food processor and pulse to chop the herbs.
With the machine running add the oil, salt, and pepper. Transfer to a small bowl,
cover with plastic wrap and set aside.

To serve: Using a serrated knife, cut the tomatoes. Top each tomato with a spoonful
of the goat cheese mixture. Place a few tomatoes on a serving plate, drizzle with
herb oil, and sprinkle with walnuts. Serve.