R&L Holt Logo Icon
Click here to send us an email. Click here to call us.

Author: Amy Riley

Refreshing Summer Tomato and Basil Cooler Recipe

Posted on by Amy Riley

A tomato drink might sound unconventional, but this Tomato and Basil Cooler is a refreshing, savoury beverage perfect for hot summer days. Combining the sweet and tangy flavours of ripe tomatoes with the aromatic freshness of basil, this drink is both hydrating and packed with nutrients. It’s a great alternative to sugary beverages and offers a unique twist for tomato lovers.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
  • A pinch of sea salt
  • A pinch of black pepper
  • Ice cubes
  • Basil leaves and tomato slices for garnish

Method:

Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and chop the tomatoes, basil leaves, and cucumber. If your tomatoes have thick skins, you can peel them for a smoother texture.

Step 2 – Blend the Ingredients: Place the chopped tomatoes, basil, cucumber, water, lemon juice, honey (if using), sea salt, and black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth.

Step 3 – Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher to remove any solids. Press with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.

Step 4 – Chill the Drink: Refrigerate the strained liquid for at least 1 hour to chill and allow the flavours to meld.

Step 5 – Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled tomato basil cooler over the ice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and tomato slices.

National Allotment Week: 3 Essential Tips for Looking After Your Tomatoes

Posted on by Amy Riley

National Allotment Week is the perfect time to celebrate the joys of growing your own produce and share tips for successful gardening. Tomatoes, one of the most popular crops among allotment holders, require some special care to thrive and produce bountiful harvests. Here are three essential tips for looking after your tomatoes during National Allotment Week.

  1. Ensure Consistent Watering

Tomatoes need consistent watering to prevent issues like blossom end rot, fruit cracking, and overall poor fruit development. Proper watering practices are crucial to maintaining healthy plants and achieving a bountiful harvest.

Water Deeply: Water your tomato plants deeply and infrequently rather than giving them a light sprinkle every day. This encourages the roots to grow deeper and makes the plants more drought-resistant.

Morning Routine: Watering early in the morning is ideal as it allows the plants to absorb moisture throughout the day and reduces the risk of fungal diseases that can develop in damp conditions.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or compost, around the base of your plants. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.

  1. Provide Proper Support

Tomato plants can become heavy with fruit and need proper support to prevent them from sprawling on the ground, which can lead to disease and fruit damage.

Staking and Caging: Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support your tomato plants. Staking involves tying the main stem to a sturdy stake, while caging surrounds the plant with a wire frame to support multiple stems.

Pruning: Regularly prune your tomato plants to remove suckers (the small shoots that grow between the main stem and branches). Pruning helps improve air circulation, reduces disease risk, and allows the plant to direct more energy towards fruit production.

Tie Gently: Use soft ties or cloth strips to gently secure your tomato plants to their supports. Avoid tying too tightly, as this can damage the stems.

  1. Monitor for Pests and Diseases

Tomatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases that can affect their growth and yield. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are key to keeping your plants healthy.

Regular Inspections: Check your plants regularly for signs of pests like aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. Early detection allows you to take action before infestations become severe.

Natural Remedies: Use natural pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings or applying organic treatments like neem oil and insecticidal soap.

Disease Prevention: Practice crop rotation, avoid overhead watering, and space your plants adequately to improve air circulation. Remove and dispose of any diseased leaves or plants to prevent the spread of fungal diseases like blight and powdery mildew.

National Allotment Week is an excellent opportunity to focus on the care and maintenance of your tomato plants. By ensuring consistent watering, providing proper support, and monitoring for pests and diseases, you can enjoy a healthy and productive tomato crop. Happy gardening!

Summer Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe

Posted on by Amy Riley

There’s nothing quite like the flavour of fresh, ripe tomatoes in the summer. This Summer Tomato and Basil Pasta recipe captures the essence of the season with juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic, all tossed together with al dente pasta. It’s a simple, light, and utterly delicious dish that’s perfect for warm weather. Here’s how to make it and why it’s so delightful.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) of your favourite pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well)
  • 2 lbs (900g) ripe tomatoes, diced (use a mix of cherry, heirloom, and plum tomatoes for variety)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Method:

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2 – Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4 – Add the Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can mash some of the tomatoes with the back of a spoon.

Step 5 – Combine and Season: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the pasta. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 6 – Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Garnish with additional basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavour.

Fried Green Tomato BLTs

Posted on by Amy Riley

Enjoy this delightful twist on the classic BLT, where the tangy and crispy fried green tomatoes add a unique and delicious dimension to your sandwich. Perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favourite!

Ingredients:

  • 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
  • 8 slices of rustic bread or your favourite sandwich bread
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups fresh lettuce leaves
  • 1 large ripe tomato, sliced (optional, for added freshness)

Method:

Step 1 – Prepare the Green Tomatoes: Season the green tomato slices with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess moisture.

Step 2 – Prepare the Breading Stations: Place the flour in one shallow dish. Pour the buttermilk into a second shallow dish. In a third shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 3 – Bread the Green Tomatoes: Dredge each tomato slice in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured slice into the buttermilk, then coat it thoroughly in the cornmeal-panko mixture. Repeat until all slices are coated.

Step 4 – Fry the Green Tomatoes: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C. Fry the breaded tomato slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 5 – Cook the Bacon: While frying the tomatoes, cook the bacon in a separate skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 6 – Prepare the Bread: Toast the bread slices to your desired level of crispiness.

Step 7 – Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until well combined.

Step 8 – Assemble the BLTs: Spread a generous amount of the mayonnaise mixture on one side of each slice of toast. Layer lettuce leaves on the bottom slice, followed by a few slices of fried green tomatoes. Add crispy bacon strips on top of the tomatoes. If desired, add a few slices of fresh ripe tomato for extra flavour and texture. Top with another layer of lettuce leaves and finish with the remaining slice of toast.

Step 9 – Serve: Serve the Fried Green Tomato BLTs immediately, while the tomatoes and bacon are still warm.

5 Fun Facts About Tomatoes This Summer

Posted on by Amy Riley

Tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens worldwide, celebrated for their versatility and delicious flavour. Beyond their culinary uses, tomatoes have a fascinating history and some surprising characteristics. Here are five fun facts about tomatoes that might just make you appreciate this beloved fruit even more!

  1. Tomatoes Are Fruits, Not Vegetables

One of the most common misconceptions about tomatoes is that they are vegetables. Scientifically speaking, tomatoes are fruits because they develop from the ovary of a flower and contain seeds. More specifically, they are classified as berries. However, in the culinary world, tomatoes are treated as vegetables due to their savoury flavour and common use in salads, sauces, and other savoury dishes.

  1. The Largest Tomato on Record

Tomatoes can grow to impressive sizes, but did you know that the largest tomato ever recorded weighed a whopping 10 pounds 12.7 ounces (4.896 kg)? This giant tomato was grown by Dan Sutherland in Walla Walla, Washington, in 2020. The massive tomato was of the Domingo variety, known for producing large fruits. Growing such a huge tomato requires not only a great variety but also optimal growing conditions and a bit of luck!

  1. Tomatoes Were Once Feared to Be Poisonous

In the 18th century, tomatoes were often called “poison apples” in Europe. This fear stemmed from the fact that wealthy Europeans who ate tomatoes often fell ill and died. The real culprit was not the tomatoes themselves, but the lead content in the pewter plates commonly used by the wealthy. Tomatoes’ high acidity would leach lead from the plates, causing lead poisoning. This misconception lasted until the 19th century when tomatoes gradually gained popularity as a delicious and safe food.

  1. Over 10,000 Varieties of Tomatoes Exist

Tomatoes come in an astonishing variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and flavours. There are over 10,000 known varieties of tomatoes, ranging from tiny cherry tomatoes to large beefsteak tomatoes. They can be red, yellow, orange, green, purple, or even striped. Heirloom varieties, which are open-pollinated and passed down through generations, offer a particularly diverse range of flavours and appearances, making them a favourite among gardeners and food enthusiasts.

  1. Tomatoes Are Good for Your Heart

Tomatoes are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients that benefit your health. They are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. Additionally, tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to many health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that consuming tomatoes and tomato-based products can lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, both of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy heart.

Tomato Lemonade

Posted on by Amy Riley

This Tomato Lemonade is a delightful twist on the classic summer beverage, combining the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the tangy freshness of lemons. The honey or agave syrup adds a natural sweetness, making it a perfect refreshing drink for a hot day. Give this unique lemonade a try and surprise your guests with its vibrant flavour as the perfect summer cooler!

Ingredients:

  • 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
  • 1/2 cup honey or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh basil or mint leaves, for garnish
  • Lemon slices, for garnish

Method:

Step 1 – Prepare the Tomato Juice: Place the chopped tomatoes in a blender. Blend until you get a smooth puree.

Step 2 – Strain the Tomato Puree: Pour the tomato puree through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large pitcher to remove the seeds and skins. Use a spoon or spatula to press the puree through the sieve to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the remaining solids.

Step 3 – Mix the Lemonade: Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and honey (or agave syrup) to the pitcher with the tomato juice. Stir well until the honey is completely dissolved.

Step 4 – Add Water: Pour in the cold water and stir to combine. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more honey or lemon juice as desired.

Step 5 – Chill: Refrigerate the tomato lemonade for at least 1 hour to allow the flavours to meld and to chill thoroughly.

Step 6 – Serve: When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the chilled tomato lemonade over the ice.

Step 7 – Garnish: Garnish each glass with fresh basil or mint leaves and lemon slices. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing and unique flavours of tomato lemonade!

The Ultimate Guide to Heirloom Tomatoes: Varieties, Growing Tips, and Recipes

Posted on by Amy Riley

Heirloom tomatoes are a gardener’s and chef’s delight, known for their rich history, unique flavours, and stunning colours. Unlike hybrid tomatoes, heirlooms are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations, maintaining their true genetic makeup.

Introduction to Heirloom Tomatoes

Heirloom tomatoes are cherished not only for their taste but also for their historical and cultural significance. These tomatoes come in a rainbow of colours, shapes, and sizes, each with its own story. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a culinary enthusiast, heirloom tomatoes offer a fascinating journey into the past, packed with flavours that modern hybrids often can’t match.

Popular Heirloom Varieties

Here are some popular heirloom tomato varieties that you might want to consider for your garden or kitchen:

  1. Brandywine:
    • Description: Known for its large size and perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, Brandywine tomatoes are often pink with a slightly ribbed shape.
    • Best Uses: Slicing for sandwiches and fresh eating.
  2. Cherokee Purple:
    • Description: These tomatoes have a dusky, dark purple colour and a rich, smoky flavour. They are medium to large in size with a smooth texture.
    • Best Uses: Salads, sandwiches, and grilling.
  3. Green Zebra:
    • Description: Green Zebra tomatoes are small to medium-sized with green and yellow stripes. They offer a tangy, slightly tart flavour.
    • Best Uses: Salads, salsas, and garnishes.
  4. Black Krim:
    • Description: Originating from Crimea, these dark maroon tomatoes are known for their intense, slightly salty flavour.
    • Best Uses: Fresh eating, salads, and sauces.

Growing Tips for Heirloom Tomatoes

Growing heirloom tomatoes can be a rewarding experience, but they do require some specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

  1. Seed Starting:
    • Start heirloom tomato seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use a high-quality seed starting mix and keep the soil consistently moist.
  2. Soil Preparation:
    • Heirloom tomatoes thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Amend your garden soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
  3. Planting:
    • Transplant seedlings outdoors once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Plant tomatoes deep, burying two-thirds of the stem to encourage strong root development.
  4. Watering:
    • Water tomatoes deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
  5. Pruning and Staking:
    • Prune suckers (the shoots that grow between the main stem and branches) to promote better air circulation and reduce disease risk. Use stakes or cages to support the plants and keep the fruits off the ground.
  6. Pest and Disease Management:
    • Monitor plants regularly for pests like aphids and tomato hornworms. Use organic pest control methods and practice crop rotation to minimize disease problems.

Spanish-Style Pasta Salad with Tuna and Marinated Tomatoes

Posted on by Amy Riley

This Spanish-Style Pasta Salad with Tuna and Marinated Tomatoes is a refreshing and flavourful dish perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering. The combination of marinated tomatoes, briny olives, and tender tuna, all tossed with pasta and fresh herbs, creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired salad that’s both healthy and delicious!

Ingredients:

  • 250g (about 8 oz) pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 can (200g or 7 oz) tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
  • 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Method:

Step 1 – Marinate the Tomatoes: In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar. Toss to coat the tomatoes evenly. Let the tomatoes marinate while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 2 – Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3 – Prepare the Salad: Add the flaked tuna, sliced green olives, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped basil to the bowl with the pasta. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4 – Add the Marinated Tomatoes: Add the marinated tomatoes along with their marinade to the pasta salad. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar. Gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5 – Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, if needed.

Step 6 – Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Thriving Tomato Gardens: 3 Essential Tips for Growing Tomatoes in the Summer

Posted on by Amy Riley

Summer is the prime season for growing tomatoes, offering ample sunlight and warm temperatures that these sun-loving plants thrive on. However, tomato growth requires careful attention and some gardening know-how. Here are three essential tips to ensure your tomato plants flourish throughout the summer:

  1. Consistent and Deep Watering:

During the hot summer months, tomato plants need regular and deep watering to sustain their growth and fruit production. Tomatoes are particularly susceptible to uneven watering, which can lead to problems such as blossom end rot and fruit cracking. To avoid these issues, water your tomato plants deeply and consistently, ensuring the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches.

  • Morning Routine: Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and allow the foliage to dry quickly, minimizing the risk of fungal diseases.
  • Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw, grass clippings, or compost, around the base of the plants to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
  • Drip Irrigation: Consider using a drip irrigation system to provide consistent moisture directly to the root zone while conserving water.
  1. Pruning and Staking for Healthy Growth:

Tomato plants can grow quite vigorously in the summer, requiring proper support and pruning to ensure healthy development and high yields. Pruning helps improve air circulation, reduces disease risk, and allows the plant to focus its energy on producing fruit.

  • Support Structures: Use stakes, cages, or trellises to support your tomato plants, keeping them upright and preventing the branches from sprawling on the ground.
  • Remove Suckers: Regularly prune the suckers (the small shoots that develop in the axils between the stem and branches) to direct the plant’s energy towards fruit production rather than excessive foliage growth.
  • Healthy Foliage: Remove any yellowing or diseased leaves to improve air circulation and light penetration, reducing the likelihood of fungal infections and promoting healthier plants.
  1. Pest and Disease Management:

Summer’s warm temperatures and humidity can create favourable conditions for pests and diseases that can affect tomato plants. Vigilant monitoring and timely intervention are crucial to maintaining plant health and ensuring a successful harvest.

  • Regular Inspections: Check your plants regularly for signs of pests like aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. Early detection allows for prompt action to control infestations.
  • Natural Solutions: Use natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings or organic treatments such as neem oil and insecticidal soap to manage pest populations without harming beneficial insects.
  • Disease Prevention: Prevent fungal diseases by spacing plants appropriately, watering at the base of the plants, and avoiding overhead watering. Applying a copper-based fungicide can also help protect against common diseases like blight and powdery mildew.

With a little effort and attention, you’ll be rewarded with a plentiful harvest of juicy, flavourful tomatoes to enjoy all season long. Happy gardening!

Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart

Posted on by Amy Riley

This Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart is a delightful combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy goat cheese, and juicy, flavourful tomatoes. It’s perfect as an appetiser, a light lunch, or even a savoury brunch option. Enjoy the fresh, herbaceous flavours and the satisfying crunch of the golden pastry in every bite!

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed if frozen
  • 4-5 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • 200g (about 7 oz) goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Method:

Step 1 – Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2 – Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth it out and slightly enlarge it. Transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3 – Create a Border: Using a sharp knife, score a border about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the edge of the pastry, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will help form the crust when baked.

Step 4 – Prepare the Toppings: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and minced garlic. Brush this mixture over the entire surface of the puff pastry, staying within the scored border.

Step 5 – Layer the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the garlic-oil brushed pastry.

Step 6 – Arrange the Tomatoes: Arrange the thinly sliced tomatoes over the cheese in a single layer, slightly overlapping them if necessary.

Step 7 – Season: Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme), chopped basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the tomatoes.

Step 8 – Egg Wash: Brush the beaten egg along the edges of the puff pastry border to help it turn golden brown while baking.

Step 9 – Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelised.

Step 10 – Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

News From the Industry

Read More News...

Recipes

Read More Recipes...