Caprese salad | Recipe of the Week

Visit the Federal Way Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday through October to pick up the local ingredients needed for this week’s recipe. The farmers market is located behind The Commons mall along South 324th Street in Federal Way.

Beefsteak tomatoes are a favorite among home cooks because of their impressive size, rich flavor and versatility.

Known for their thick, meaty flesh and minimal seeds, they are perfect for slicing and adding to sandwiches, burgers, or fresh salads. Their juicy, slightly sweet taste with just the right hint of acidity makes them a refreshing summer staple.

Because of their large size, just one slice can cover an entire sandwich, making them both practical and delicious. Whether eaten fresh off the vine, layered with mozzarella and basil, or used in hearty sauces, beefsteak tomatoes deliver unbeatable flavor and texture that truly showcase as one of the best at farmers markets.

Tomatoes are packed with nutrients and offer a wide range of health benefits. They are an excellent source of vitamins C, K, and A, as well as potassium, which supports heart health and helps regulate blood pressure. Rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, tomatoes have been linked to reducing the risk of certain cancers and protecting against cell damage. Their high-water content makes them hydrating and refreshing, while their dietary fiber supports healthy digestion. Tomatoes also promote healthy skin, support eye health, and contribute to overall immune function.

Whether eaten fresh, cooked, or blended into sauces, tomatoes are a delicious way to boost both flavor and nutrition in your diet.

Ingredients

1 beef steak tomato sliced (Amador Farm)

4-5 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese

1 tbsp Bret’s Original BBQ Sauce

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp classic dark balsamic vinegar

1-2 tsp honey (Novo Honey LLC)

Fresh basil leaves

Fresh ground pepper

Directions

1. To make dressing: in a small bowl combine BBQ sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Whisk until well combined. Set aside.

2. Slice tomato and cheese. Arrange all tomatoes and cheese on one larger plate or use 4 smaller plates with one slice of each tomato and cheese.

3. Drizzle dressing over tomato and cheese. Sprinkle with fresh ground pepper. Arrange basil leaves on each tomato slice. Store leftover dressing in the refrigerator. Serve as an appetizer or side salad.

Federal Way resident Vickie Chynoweth published a cookbook called “Well Fed: Easy-to-Follow Recipes.”