Fried Green Tomatoes

This isn't just a great movie--it's a yummy, southern dish. Fried green tomatoes can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or just a snack. They have a comfort food feel, but are a tad nutritionally appealing. I mean...tomatoes are good for you...hello! Have I motivated you to try them yet? You must know: when frying tomatoes (or anything really), pay close attention to what you are doing--frying requires constant attention!

What you need:

1/4 cup corn meal

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Season salt to taste (I use a good bit...about a tablespoon, maybe)

1 egg

Olive oil (you can use virgin, light, or extra virgin)

Large green tomatoes, sliced about 1/2" (one tomato gives 3-4 slices)

What you do:

In a shallow, flat-bottom bowl, beat the egg slightly with a fork. In a second shallow, flat-bottom bowl, mix corn meal, flour, and season salt. Heat oil in medium-sized pan on med-hi heat. One at a time, soak tomato slices in egg, then dredge in flour mixture, coating both sides. Transfer battered tomato to pan with hot oil. When a golden-brown ring appears on the side of the tomato nearest the pan, flip the tomato. Once other side appears golden-brown, remove from pan and place on paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until each tomato is done. You should be able to cook 3 slices at one time.

You can serve the tomatoes with horseradish sauce, ketchup, sour cream, or whatever your taste buds desire. My personal favorite is a little concoction that I have no name for....

What you need:

Cream cheese (4 oz) at room temperature

Fresh lime juice (about 2 teaspoons)

Parsley (a dash)

What you do:

Mix all the ingredients together and chill at least 20 minutes.

Happy Eating!