If you have a garden at home, your tomato vines probably have more tomatoes than you know what to do with. Tomatoes are the star on the menu at Cucina Paradiso Restaurant. Co-owner, Anthony Gambino has some recipe ideas.
Cucina Paradiso
814 North Boulevard
Oak Park
708-848-3434
cucinaoakpark.com
- RECIPES:
- Pappardelle with heirloom tomatoes and burrata cheese
- Fried green tomato burgers
- Heirloom Tomato salad
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Anthony's Top Tomato Tips:
- When shopping for tomatoes look for an even and glossy color. The texture should be somewhere between soft and firm.
- Check the bottom of tomatoes, that's where they start to ripen. Some tomatoes ripen before they reach full color.
- Put unripe tomatoes in a cool dark place, arranging them in a single layer. Check frequently for holes, cracks or even tiny specks of rot and remove any damaged tomatoes immediately.
- Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature for best flavor; they'll keep for a day or two. If you need to keep them longer, put them in the refrigerator. Use the butter compartment if they'll fit; it's the warmest part.
- Freeze tomatoes, ripe or green, either chopped or made into sauce, for use through the winter. For convenience, use individual freezer containers that hold just enough for one recipe.
