Post by @cheffinwithzach

Not your average tomato sandwich. Full recipes at www.cheffinwithzach.com (in bio). I’m annoyed. The second September hits, everybody starts posting cozy fall recipes. I love a cozy soup or stew, but I’m not ready for that just yet. First of all, summer technically ends September 21st, let’s get that straight. Second, tomato season ends in October, and I think this is a more accurate representation of when Summer should end than where the Earth currently is in orbit. So as far as I’m concerned, we have at least another month of summer. I am a tomato lover, and I have been obsessed with those juicy little red guys for as long as I can remember. Every morning, if my eggs aren’t cooked with tomatoes, then I’ll have them on the side. I have tomatoes every single day, and that’s my dad’s fault–he was the one that would always serve us tomatoes, and his obsession transferred over to me. Generational trauma? No, generational tomato obsession. Tomato sandwiches are a popular way to enjoy a delicious summer tomato; traditionally just sliced and seasoned tomatoes on untoasted white bread smeared with a little mayonnaise. It’s good, but I think there is so much more potential to explore here. So, I made my own version and turned it into something great. First, I marinate my tomatoes in a simple mix of salt, pepper, oregano and chili flake for excitement, then red wine vinegar enhances that bright acidity and sweetness of the tomato. Then, I just douse it in a ton of olive oil because, well, tomatoes and olive oil are best friends. Instead of plain mayo, I made my own from scratch, adding garlic, dijon mustard, and miso paste to enhance the tomato’s umami. Also in the sandwich: anchovies to drive that umami even further, then basil because it’s also a tomato’s best friend. All of that in between two layers of sourdough toasted in olive oil. Much more depth of flavor there, plus better for structural integrity. While tomatoes are still in season, I will be making this tomato sandwich on repeat. Hope you enjoy your next month of summer!