a homely tomato. It will often be a good one because it’s usually either a tasty heirloom variety or organically grown. Store ripe tomatoes stem side down, which prolongs shelf life by preventing bruising.

  1. CHOOSE tomatoes with a serrated bread knife to make neat slices and avoid squeezing out the juices.
  2. CUT easily by cutting an X with a paring knife on the bottom of the tomato, dipping it 30 seconds in boiling water, and then plunging it into ice water.
  3. PEEL off the skin with your fingers, starting at the cut. The peel will slip right off.
  4. PULL