Easy Summer Side Dishes -Herbed Tomatoes

It won't be long until local tomatoes are available in Michigan. But tomatoes are a good buy at the grocery right now if you can't wait. For a quick and healthy side dish try this recipe adapted from Racheal Raye of the Food Network (www.foodnetwork.com) , simply cut off the tops of four good ripe tomatoes (very large ones, cut right in half and use a half per person). Scoop out any juicy pulp with a spoon and place on a foil lined cookie sheet. Top with a mixture of 1 cup bread crumbs, 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, a teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves, a couple of grinds of black pepper and 2 T olive oil. Place under the broiler for about 5 minutes or until brown. Want it even easier?? Use Italian Seasoned Bread Crumbs instead of plain and skip the spices. Fresh parsley, chopped, is a nice addition, too. Great side for a grilled chicken or steak. Peg