Sliced Tomatoes With Lemon Caper Sauce: A Summer Classic

I remember summers spent at my grandmother’s house, the air thick with the scent of sun-ripened tomatoes and basil. Her garden was a riot of color and flavor, and she had a way of transforming simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. This recipe for sliced tomatoes with lemon caper sauce reminds me of those days. It captures the essence of summer with its bright, fresh flavors and is a perfect way to showcase the season’s bounty. Every bite is a little taste of sunshine and nostalgia.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 fresh ripe tomatoes

For the Lemon Caper Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plain nonfat yogurt
• 1 tablespoon drained capers
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

Equipment Needed

• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Shallow plastic container or serving plate
• Pot for boiling water (optional for easier peeling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Immerse the tomatoes in the boiling water for 30 seconds. This step helps loosen the skin for easier peeling, but can be skipped if desired.

2. Peel the Tomatoes: Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled slightly, gently peel the skin off.

3. Stem and Core: Remove the stem and core from each tomato using a paring knife.

4. Slice the Tomatoes: Slice the peeled tomatoes into even slices, about ¼-inch thick.

5. Arrange the Tomatoes: Arrange the sliced tomatoes in a shallow plastic container or on a serving plate. Overlapping them slightly can create an appealing presentation.

6. Make the Lemon Caper Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, plain nonfat yogurt, drained capers, lemon juice, and grated lemon zest.

7. Whisk the Sauce: Whisk all the sauce ingredients together until smooth and well combined.

8. Serve: Spoon the Lemon Caper Sauce over the sliced tomatoes just before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Tomato Selection: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. Heirloom varieties offer a wider range of colors and flavors. Look for tomatoes that are heavy for their size, indicating juiciness.
• Peeling Tomatoes: If you find that the skins are not coming off easily after the blanching, score the bottom of the tomato with an “X” before immersing it in boiling water. This helps the skin to peel back more readily.
• Caper Flavor: For a more pronounced caper flavor, lightly crush the capers with the flat side of a knife before adding them to the sauce.
• Yogurt Substitute: If you don’t have plain nonfat yogurt, sour cream or Greek yogurt can be substituted. The Greek yogurt will result in a slightly tangier sauce.
• Make Ahead: The Lemon Caper Sauce can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to slice and dress the tomatoes just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the sliced tomatoes with Lemon Caper Sauce as a refreshing appetizer, side dish, or light lunch. It pairs well with grilled fish, chicken, or as a topping for crusty bread.

Leftover Lemon Caper Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be used as a salad dressing or as a dip for vegetables. The sliced tomatoes are best consumed immediately, but if you have leftovers, store them separately from the sauce to prevent them from becoming too watery. Refrigerated sliced tomatoes are best eaten within 24 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	91.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	51%
Total Fat	5.2 g	8%
Saturated Fat	0.8 g	4%
Cholesterol	4.1 mg	1%
Sodium	250.1 mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate	10.5 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	1.8 g	7%
Sugars	5.6 g	N/A
Protein	2.2 g	4%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative and use a plant-based yogurt.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives to the Lemon Caper Sauce for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can be added to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Different Tomatoes: Experiment with different varieties of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, or even green tomatoes, depending on availability and preference.
• Add Garlic: A clove of minced garlic added to the sauce can provide a bolder, savory flavor.
• Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add a tangy depth to the Lemon Caper Sauce.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: Finish the dish with a drizzle of high quality extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor and richness.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried capers instead of brined capers?
A: While brined capers are preferred for their briny flavor and plumpness, dried capers can be used in a pinch. Soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes to rehydrate before adding them to the sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe with canned tomatoes?
A: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are crucial for this recipe. Canned tomatoes will lack the fresh flavor and texture that makes this dish so special.

Q: How can I prevent the tomatoes from becoming watery?
A: Salting the tomato slices lightly and letting them sit for about 10 minutes before draining off any excess liquid can help to draw out some of the moisture. Also, dress the tomatoes just before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of citrus instead of lemon?
A: Yes, lime juice and zest can be used as a substitute for lemon. Orange zest offers a sweeter, milder flavour profile.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain gluten. However, be sure to check the labels of your mayonnaise and yogurt to ensure they are certified gluten-free if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Sliced Tomatoes with Lemon Caper Sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients and the joy of summer. I encourage you to try this delightful dish and experience the burst of flavors for yourself. Feel free to adapt it to your own taste preferences and let me know what you think. This recipe is a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a light and refreshing snack on a warm afternoon. Enjoy the simplicity and the incredible flavors that come together in every bite!