Raw Oysters with Leek, Tomato, and Bacon Vinaigrette

1. 1

   Bring a small pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

2. 2

   With a sharp paring knife, cut out the tough cores from each tomato.

3. 3

   Make a small X in the bottom of each to make peeling easier.

4. 4

   Drop the tomatoes in the boiling water and count to 20.

5. 5

   Remove the tomatoes with a slotted spoon and run them under cool water.

6. 6

   Peel off the skins with the paring knife.

7. 7

   Cut the tomatoes in half and gently squeeze out the seeds.

8. 8

   Dice the tomatoes and set aside.

9. 9

   Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium-low heat until crisp.

10. 10

    Remove to a paper towel to drain.

11. 11

    Saute the leeks in the bacon fat until tender.

12. 12

    Put the leeks into a bowl and fold in the tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and parsley; season with salt and pepper.

13. 13

    Shuck the oysters according to the sidebar on page 220.

14. 14

    Spoon some of the vinaigrette onto each oyster, crumble the bacon on top, and serve.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.