Tomatoes are one of the most interesting and satisfying crops to grow at home, with a wide range of varieties to try, including heritage varieties from stockists like Pennard Plants and Seeds of Italy. They’re also fairly straightforward to grow, requiring plenty of sun, water, and periodic feeding.
Two key benefits of growing your own tomatoes are the unbeatable taste of a tomato that has ripened on the vine in sunshine and the vast array of varieties available to try.
Mediterranean countries have made tomatoes their own, and it’s easy to see why – they’re incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of recipes.
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A great way to enjoy homegrown tomatoes is in a summery Mediterranean-inspired tomato salad. To make this salad, you’ll need a few key ingredients, including fresh oregano leaves, olive oil, lemon zest, and feta cheese.
You’ll also need some rocket, mixed tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts. Preheat your oven to 180°C and prepare a parcel of feta cheese by mixing together oregano, olive oil, lemon zest, and chilli flakes on a large sheet of baking paper.
Place the feta on top and drizzle with the remaining ingredients, then fold the paper to create a closed parcel and bake for 30 minutes. While the feta is baking, arrange some rocket on a serving platter and layer with rounds of tomato and shallot rings.
Sprinkle with olives, basil leaves, and pine nuts. Once the feta is ready, remove it from the oven and crumble one block over the platter, placing the other block on top.
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Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of black pepper. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the fruits of your labor and experience the unique taste of homegrown tomatoes.
For those looking to try new recipes, there are plenty of resources available, including cookbooks like Big Salads by Kate Mead, which features a range of delicious and inspiring salad recipes.
Build a spread of summer salads with Moroccan-inspired tomato and cucumber or herby meatballs with green tahini.
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