Heirloom Tomato Salad with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese

I love fresh tomatoes in the summer! I was so excited to receive a bunch of beautiful heirloom tomatoes in our latest CSA box. This tomato salad showcases the beauty of the heirlooms, and the caramelized onions add a complementary sweet flavor to the tangy vinaigrette and creamy goat cheese. Every bite is a taste of summer. Simply sublime!

Source: Heirloom Tomato Salad with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese, Stonewall Kitchen Harvest

Ingredients

For the onions:

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 large or 4 small onion, very thinly sliced (about 2 cups)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon sugar

For the vinaigrette:

½ teaspoon mustard

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons red or white wine vinegar

5 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon minced fresh chives (optional)

For the salad:

2 medium, ripe heirloom tomatoes, each cut into 8 wedges

1 cup golden pear tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, cut in half if large

1 cup red pear tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, cut in half if large

1 cup packed mesclun greens

2 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled

Directions

To caramelize the onions: Heat the oil in a large, heavy skillet over low heat. Add the onions, salt, and pepper and stir well. Cover and cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until a light golden brown. Remove the cover, sprinkle the sugar over the onions, and sauté for another 5 minutes, uncovered, stirring frequently until a rich golden brown color. Let cool completely. (The onions can be made 24 hours ahead of time; cover and refrigerate until ready to use.)

To make the dressing: Mix the mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Add the vinegar, and whisk in the oil to make a smooth vinaigrette. Mix in the chives, if using, and set aside.

To assemble the salad: Arrange the tomatoes on a platter, alternating colors and shapes. Place the greens on top of, and in between, the tomatoes. Place the onions on top of the greens and sprinkle with the goat cheese. Spoon the vinaigrette on top.