There's Nothing Like a Good Tomato

In late August and early September, delicious tomatoes are abundant, and they taste the way tomatoes should taste. No matter what the variety — plum, beefsteak, heirloom or grape — tomatoes are perfect for sprucing up a main dish, or can make the most wonderful salads and sides.

This recipe is a no-brainer; you just toss together some of the season's best flavors and you can't go wrong!

• 6-7 plum tomatoes, quartered
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup of roughly chopped fresh basil
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Pinch of kosher salt and pepper 

This salad is delicious on its own, or can be sprinkled over a piece of chicken or fish for a flavorful, healthy meal.

• 3 cups sliced red and/or yellow cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups Kirby cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 8 black Kalamata olives, halved
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp olive oil

This classic Italian bread-topper tastes absolutely divine when you use ripe, juicy tomatoes. I spoon my bruschetta onto whole-wheat baguette rounds.

• 5-6 plum tomatoes or 3 beefsteak tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced finely
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• Sea salt and pepper to taste 

Sara Ryba is a registered dietitian, certified dietary nutritionist and a contributor to The FIRM Believers Club website, an online community that helps you reach your fitness, health and weight loss goals. With maximum-efficiency home workouts, support and motivation from The FIRM Master Instructors, daily tips, personalized workout rotation calendars, and access to other members through discussion boards, The Club provides all the tools you need to get in the shape you want.