Article

Fabulous Must-have Heirloom Tomatoes

By: Co+op

The always fashionable heirloom tomato is hot, hot, hot, so don’t be caught sporting anything less than the vine-ripened real thing. Although heirloom tomatoes have many specific cultivars (like designer names), there are some broad types to keep an eye out for, see if you can spot these fashionable fruits in your local co-op! Reference this handy guide to the some of the season’s absolute must-haves, get inspired to compile your own heirlooms A-list from your community, and class up your kitchen and patio parties with these delicious tomatoes.

Green Zebra


Abracazebra

Shocking and fierce, this little number will make you look smart. Green zebra tomatoes are green even when perfectly ripe—making them a perfect way to surprise your friends with your savvy culinary know-how. This sweet little tomato has a slightly smoky, citrusy flavor that would brighten up even jeans and a sweater (or a couscous salad with chicken, your pick).

Beefsteak type


Costuluto Firoentino

Are you a leopard print and pleather type of person? Beefsteak is for you. There is no taking this type of heirloom lightly—she weighs in heavy! Rich, meaty, and satisfying, the beefsteak stands up to grilled meats and fish, makes a killer BLT, and isn’t too shabby plated with fresh mozzarella either. Dress it up, or dress it down—you can’t lose with this classic stunner.

Yellow pear type


Medovaya Kaplya

Red classic cherry tomatoes are never out of style, but sometimes you need something…different. Enhance your tiny tomato repertoire with these golden yellow heirloom cherry tomatoes. Slice in half and serve on crackers with a smear of fresh chevre and chopped chives! Look at you - that’s big city!

Purple shouldered beefsteak type


Purple Shouldered

Purple is big now—at least as far as tomatoes go. This hefty stunner has green shoulders and a robust purple jacket that, when opened, reveals a glistening web of luxurious pink tomato. Please don’t overshadow this tomato with lots of bling—keep accessories simple with fresh basil and a splash of balsamic. Even looks good with just sea salt!

Speckled Roma type


Speckled Roma

When it comes to food fashion, any foodie knows to look no further than Italy. The intense, luxurious heirloom Roman Stripe tomato is a gladiator of flavor that you will want on your side. Thick and meaty, with a tomato flavor that is so classic, it just might be the new black. Just peel and puree for the handsomest sauce your pasta has ever met.