Oh Tomatoes - How Do I Love Thee?

Yesterday was the official first day of fall. While the temps are still in the 105 range here, this reminded me that most of you in other parts of the country are clinging on to the last few weeks of summer produce. The tomato is the epitome of summer to me. I love just picking them off the vine and eating them like an apple when they are juicy and perfectly ripe.

This past week I hit the jackpot at Whole Foods. Their organic heirlooms are usually crazy expensive at $4.99 per pound or more sometimes. I guess I am de-sensitized, because I thought $2.99 a pound was a great bargain. They had many great colors and varieties. I decided to go for three different kinds this time. It was a warm up for the tomato plants I put in 2 weeks ago. I planted like 6 different varieties. We are trying fall tomatoes with the hopes we will have better luck with them than we did our summer tomatoes. In the mean time, I am indulging in the fruits of someone else's labor. Behold - the regal tomato platter.