CARAMELIZED TOM SALAD w/SAN SIMON CHEESE

By BobD

Ingredients

• 8 SERVINGS
• 2 cups olive oil
• 1 3/4 pounds cherry tomatoes, divided
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 large fresh thyme sprigs
• 1/3 cup Sherry wine vinegar
• 8 ounces San Simon cheese,* cut into 1/3-inch cubes
• 8 green onions, thinly sliced
• Fresh chervil sprigs (for garnish)
• 16 toasted baguette slices

Details

Servings 8
Adapted from epicurious.com

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 275F.

Place oil, 3/4 pound tomatoes, sugar, and thyme in 8 x 8 x 2-inch metal baking dish.

Roast until tomatoes are very tender, about 2 1/2 hours.

Cool caramelized tomatoes in oil.

DO AHEAD: Can be made 2 days ahead; cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before continuing.

Using slotted spoon, transfer tomatoes to large bowl.

Transfer 1 cup oil from tomatoes to medium bowl (reserve any remaining oil for another use).

Add vinegar to oil in medium bowl; whisk to blend. Season dressing with salt and pepper.

Add 1 pound fresh tomatoes, cheese, and dressing to bowl with caramelized tomatoes; toss gently.

Top with green onions and chervil.

Serve with toasts.

* San Simon cheese, a smoked cheese shaped like a bell, is sold at natural foods stores, specialty foods stores, and latienda. com. Smoked Gouda can be substituted.