Terra Americana

  Shopping at Rays, our little local farm stand, is a guilty pleasure.  I go in for an onion and leave with a bushel of tomatoes.  That was yesterday's story.  I am considering just going there by bike from now on, or at least until winter. Otherwise I will need to spend a week in the kitchen making the most of all of the delights that just tickled my fancy.

This morning I awoke dreaming about the crates of eggplant and zucchini that were just begging to come home with me. The first sip of coffee reminded me of the tantalizing tomato martini my trip to the market turned into.  What a way to wind down a wicked week!

• 2 very ripe tomatoes 
• 2 large green olives
• 6 ounces chilled vodka (Try Tito's Handmade)
• Tomato slices, quartered to garnish

Chop tomatoes and green olives roughly. Add vodka and marinate for about 30 minutes in the fridge.  Mash and add ice cubes.  Shake and strain into glasses.  Serve with tomato slices, as many as make you happy.  This makes 2 very healthy martini's.

The best creative cocktails start with the best spirits.  Mike and Dave at Westfield Spirit Shop are our go to guys to how to pair fabulous flavors.

Find them at:

440 Southampton Road
Westfield, Ma 01085

• Monday-Thursday 9AM – 10:30PM
• Friday-Saturday 9AM – 11PM
• Sunday 12-7PM

More creative ways to enjoy your happy hour:

• There is nothing like a Vodka Gimlet

• A sensational summer sip from Prince Edward Island, The "Eddy"

• Slightly sweet and sublime, a vintage cocktail reinvented; the Karentini

• Shine Caiprinha

Photo Credit:  Julie Cecchini