Ugly Ripe Tomato

Ugly Ripe Tomatoes

Yes, there really are tomatoes called, "ugly ripe tomatoes". I don't know if you get them up north but down here in Florida they are very popular. I actually took the children on a homeschool field trip to a local large farm company that grows them. The expert at the farm says they are the best tasting of all the Florida tomatoes, and we agree! They are meaty and juicy and full of flavor. If you ever see them in your market, give them a try!

I decided to make them the star of my lunch on Tuesday. I topped them with my Thick and Creamy Raw Ranch dressing. I served them with a side of sunflower sprouts and broccoli stems I had leftover from another recipe. I love broccoli stems. They have a sweetness about them and are so tender. They make great dipping sticks for raw dips too. Today I simply ate them with fresh lemon juiced squeezed on top. Man were they good that way. Sometimes simple is best.

Ugly Ripe Tomato Plate

1 large ugly ripe tomato, sliced into rounds

2 scallions, finely sliced (reserve one for the garnish)

broccoli sprouts

sunflower sprouts

broccoli stems, peeled and cut into thick matchsticks

fresh lemon juice

Thick and Creamy Raw Ranch Dressing

1/2 C raw cashews, soaked

squeeze of fresh lemon juice

1/2 t garlic powder or 1 small clove, pressed

1/2 t onion powder

1 small scallion, fine chopped. (Chop 2nd one for garnish, set aside)

sea salt and pepper to taste

1/2 t dill weed

1 t raw agave

water to blend

In a small blender, blend cashews, agave, lemon juice, and 2 T water till almost smooth. Now add the spices, scallion and more water if necessary. Blend until thick and creamy.

Arrange tomato slices on plate. Top with the Raw Ranch Dressing. Garnish tomatoes with broccoli sprouts and the reserved chopped scallions. Serve with a side of sunflower sprouts and broccoli stems that have been drizzled with lots of fresh lemon juice. Enjoy!

~JMJ~ Today I am grateful for the simplicity of ripe tomatoes. I got so much joy out of eating this lunch. It is amazing how great raw food can make you feel. It actually puts me in a good mood. Maybe that is why all of my meals have to be raw.

RAW = happiness!! :)

Peace and Eat Some Ugly Ripe Tomatoes This Summer.