Little Sky Lavender Farm | Lavender Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Lavender Sun-Dried Tomatoes
(slow roasted in oven)

28 oz. fresh tomatoes
1 tablespoon Little Sky whole or ground lavender
salt and pepper

Grind lavender in spice grinder or mortar and pestle if using whole lavender.

Either halve or quarter tomatoes. If you are using large tomatoes- slice more. Try to slice in even size pieces, this will allow for even cooking. Use a knife to scrape out the seeds and juice, leaving the pulp. Using the back of a spoon, press down to flatten each slice (this will make it easier to sprinkle the seasonings), squeezing out more juice. Place tomatoes, cut side up, on a plate. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper followed with ground lavender. Gently press seasonings into the top of the pulp with a fork or the back of a spoon.

Preheat oven to 225° F. Transfer tomatoes, cut side up, to a cookie sheet lined with either parchment paper or aluminum foil which will keep the tomatoes from staining your cookie sheet.

Roast 2 to 4 hours. The time depends on the size of your tomato slices. Begin checking at 2 hours. When the slices are dry, yet a little pliable, remove to cool. Some slices may need longer to roast, place them back in the oven and check periodically. Place dried slices in the refrigerator in an airtight container; or pop in your mouth and enjoy right away, warm!

Some suggested uses: Chop lavender sun-dried tomatoes and stir into whipped cream cheese. Add 1 teaspoon of water, adding a little more for your desired consistency; and also depending on the amount of cream cheese you use. The water will slightly re-hydrate the tomatoes and give the cream cheese a nice color. Refrigerate 1 hour. Serve with chunks of sourdough bread, veggies, and your favorite crackers.

Lavender sun-dried tomatoes are also excellent in sandwiches, salads and pasta dishes.
An added note! These little delectables can be frozen (wrap in freezer paper, and then put in a freezer-safe baggie, suggested), for at least one year. A little added touch for
hors d'oeuvres, anytime. All fun stuff!