Heirloom Tomato and Feta Salad 

Heirloom Tomato and Feta Salad
Ingredients 

For the Salad:

1. 3-4 large heirloom tomatoes
2. 1 cup heirloom cherry tomatoes
3. 1-2 sheets feta cheese, drained from the brine
4. Maldon Sea Salt
5. Freshly cracked black pepper
6. Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

For the Torn Croutons:

1. ¼ loaf ciabatta bread
2. Olive oil

For the Basil Vinaigrette:

1. 1 small shallot, roughly chopped
2. 2 cups tightly packed basil leaves
3. 1 clove garlic
4. ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
5. ½ cup olive oil
6. 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
7. 1 teaspoon kosher salt
8. ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the Croutons:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Tear the ciabatta bread into bite-sized pieces
3. Toss the bread pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake until golden and crispy, about 10-12 minutes.

Make the Basil Vinaigrette:

1. In a blender, combine the shallot, basil, garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper
2. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the Salad:

1. Slice the large heirloom tomatoes and halve the cherry tomatoes.
2. Arrange the tomatoes on a large serving platter.
3. Crumble the feta cheese over the tomatoes.
4. Drizzle with the basil vinaigrette.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Maldon sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
6. Add the torn croutons just before serving to keep them crispy.
7. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant heirloom tomato salad with feta and homemade croutons