Steamed Vegetables with Tomato and Basil Dressing

Ingredients

Tomato and Basil Dressing:

• 4 ripe medium tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves

Vegetables:

• 1/2 bunch broccoli, cut in large florets
• 1/2 bunch cauliflower, cut in large florets
• 2 carrots, cut in thick slices
• 1 yellow or zucchini squash, cut in thick rounds
• 1/2 to 1 head fennel, cut into thin wedges
• 1 bunch asparagus
• 8 cloves garlic
• 1 bunch scallions

Directions

For the sauce: Scoop the flesh and juices of the tomatoes out of the skins with a spoon into a bowl; discard the empty skins. Whisk in the vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, breaking up the tomato as you do. Gradually whisk in the olive oil, starting with a few drops and then adding the rest in a steady stream to make a chunky, slightly thick dressing. Roughly chop the basil and stir into the dressing. Set aside for 15 minutes to let the flavors come together. Remove the garlic.

For the vegetables: Pour an inch or more of water in a wok or skillet and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Place the vegetables in a bamboo or collapsible steamer. Set the steamer over the boiling water, cover, and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, or just until the vegetables are crisp tender. Serve warm or at room temperature with the dressing.

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