Grape Tomato Halves Tossed with Balsamic Syrup Vinaigrette

by Michelle

Grape Tomato Halves Tossed with Balsamic Syrup Vinaigrette

   I recently splurge purchased a bottle of Organic Creme by Il Tesoro de Modena, a condiment that is made by reducing balsamic vinegar to a thick syrup and adding natural fig flavor which adds a burst of flavor when drizzled over a cheese plate, ice cream, cured meats, grilled vegetables, and this easy salad recipe.
   For a do-it-yourself approach, it is easy to make a balsamic condiment by pouring inexpensive balsamic vinegar into a medium saucepan and boiling the liquid until reduced to a syrup consistency.

Ingredients:
16-ounces (1 pound) grape tomatoes or sugar plum tomatoes
4 to 5 garlic cloves, minced
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
about 2 Tbsps balsamic reduction of your choice
about 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
about 2 Tbsps olive oil
about 1 to 2 tsp fresh thyme, minced
about 1 Tbsp minced fresh Italian parsley

Procedure:
1. Wash the tomatoes and shake to dry. Cut each tomato in half through the stem. Place the tomatoes in a bowl and add the minced garlic. Sprinkle the tomatoes with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, stir. Add the rest of the ingredients and stir. Taste. Adjust the seasoning, as needed to suit your taste. The tomatoes can sit for awhile, up to an hour before serving. The flavor will develop as they sit. Just stir every so often.