Fresh Tomato Relish

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES

Make this as colorful as you wish with summer tomatoes in rainbow hues, but please use real garden or farmers’ market tomatoes. If you want to give the relish more heft, so that a vegetable platter can be the centerpiece of a meal, mix in some cooked Israeli couscous, black beans, or a grain like farro. As an accompaniment without other added ingredients, spoon it over grilled or smoked eggplant, onions, or fennel. The relish is at its peak just after you put it together, so eat up.

The Fresh Tomato Basil Relish is a vibrant and delightful condiment that celebrates the natural flavors of tomatoes in their prime. This simple yet flavorful relish combines the freshness of mixed chopped tomatoes with the aromatic touch of basil leaves, creating a perfect accompaniment for various dishes. The addition of extra-virgin olive oil and a splash of white vinegar enhances the taste profile while maintaining the vibrant colors of the tomatoes.

As the relish sits at room temperature for about an hour, the flavors have an opportunity to meld, resulting in a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes from the tomatoes and vinegar. The torn basil leaves, added just before serving, infuse the relish with their aromatic essence, providing a burst of herbal freshness.

This versatile relish can be used in multiple ways. It adds a burst of color and flavor to grilled or roasted vegetables, enhancing their taste with the bright and juicy tomatoes. The option to transform it into a caprese-style relish by incorporating torn chunks of mozzarella adds a creamy dimension that complements the tomatoes and basil.

Fresh Tomato Basil Relish captures the essence of the summer season and brings a burst of freshness to your dishes. Whether spooned over grilled vegetables or used as a topping for other culinary creations, this relish is a simple yet impressive way to elevate the flavors of your meals.

MAKES: ABOUT 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups mixed chopped tomatoes, including big and small varieties
• About 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Splash of white vinegar
• A few fresh basil leaves
• Flaky salt, such as Maldon, or kosher salt or coarse sea salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Combine Tomatoes: In a bowl, combine the mixed chopped tomatoes, including both larger and smaller varieties.
2. Add Oil and Vinegar: Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over the tomatoes. Add a splash of white vinegar to the mixture.
3. Allow to Sit: Allow the tomato mixture to sit for about 1 hour at room temperature. It’s important not to refrigerate it during this time, as the flavors need a chance to meld.
4. Tear Basil Leaves: Just before serving, tear the fresh basil leaves into small bits. This will help release their aromatic oils and enhance the flavor of the relish.
5. Add Basil and Salt: Scatter the torn basil leaves over the tomato mixture. Season the relish generously with flaky salt, such as Maldon, or use kosher salt or coarse sea salt.
6. Serve: The relish is now ready to be served. Spoon it over grilled or roasted vegetables at the table to add a burst of freshness and flavor.

VARIATION:

• Caprese Relish: For a heartier version, you can transform this relish into a caprese-style dish by adding torn chunks of mozzarella. This addition will create a more substantial and satisfying dish.

SPICING TIP:

• Enhance the flavor of your outdoor cooked foods by adding a final flourish of certain cheeses. Grated Parmesan or Pecorino, as well as Mexican-style queso fresco or aged Cotija, can add an extra layer of pizzazz to dishes like corn, onions, eggplant, and more.