While on holiday, I visited my dear friend Kate who lives in a charming farmhouse with her adorable daughter Mia, two Persian cats, Darling and Delight and her Welsh Corgi, Duchess. Yes...Duchess!! One of the most enjoyable aspects of my visit with Kate was helping her pick fresh fruits and vegetables she grows in her magnificent garden. The day I arrived, Kate prepared a scrumptious feast using a variety of her Heritage tomatoes (or Heirloom as they are known in the US), grilled aubergine and fresh cheese straight from her farm. Dinner was fabulous and so was the rest of my stay. I had a marvelous time. Thank you, Kate darling!!

Kate is a fabulous cook...her masterpiece…our supper!!

Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated rather than hybrid or genetically modified varieties of tomatoes. They are grown from plants and seeds that have been handed down from generation to generation. With such lineage, there’s generally a name and a story behind each delectable variety.

Heritage tomatoes are best enjoyed in their most natural state, unadorned and unfussed, sliced and tucked in between fresh Mozzarella cheese and basil with a small drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of sea salt.

Heritage tomatoes come in a variety of shapes and colors. Their texture is softer than the average tomato with an acidity and tartness and yet delicate sweetness which makes them a delight to eat.

A summery heaven on a plate!!

The Peony of the vegetable garden!!

The Isles Heritage are yellow in color and have a pleasantly sweet flavor with a hint of citrus. The Sir Winston varieties are orange in color, juicy, and spicy in flavor.

Lord Greenish is a brightly green and yellow English Heritage with an evenly round shape and a smooth flesh. Small in size, huge in flavor!!

Grilled Heritage Bruschetta is a delectable summer meal!!

The Black Krim is a Russian Heritage with a rather large and malformed body and a savory, smoky, delightful flavor.

Grilled Portobello mushroom, topped with red Roma tomato, goat cheese, shaved fresh garlic and a sprig of basil with a sprinkle of aged balsamic vinegar.

I sincerely wish I had packed all of you in my pink cases and took you along with me.

I truly missed each and everyone of you!!