A Summery Splash of Color for January

A couple of weeks ago, right after our blizzard and snow days, I was craving tomatoes.

I don't know exactly what it was. Maybe I was tired of all the winter squashes and soups and stews (which I DO love), but I wanted something fresh and colorful, and, well, summery.

But every store had the same stock problem - pallid, sad-looking, more yellowish-orange than red spheres that were trying to pass as tomatoes.

I was resigned. No tomatoes for me.

AND THEN IT HAPPENED...

I happened on the most amazing looking, bright red, plump tomatoes.

I just knew I had to do something special with them.

I had some leftover chicken which I shredded. I tossed on some oregano, basil, and garlic.

Added the chopped tomatoes on top and topped with cheese. (Note the parchment paper? That was because last time, I lost half the cheesy goodness when it stuck to the pan.)

I like my cheese crusty, so I cooked it until it looked almost burnt.

There's a peek inside under the cheese crust.

While the chicken and tomatoes were cooking, I boiled up some cavatappi, then spooned the deliciousness on top.

So, do you crave summer dishes in winter and winter dishes in summer, or is it just me?

 I might be crazy, but I prefer to think I just like variety.