STEAMED VEGETABLES WITH TOMATO AND BASIL DRESSING

Steamed Vegetables with Tomato and Basil Dressing image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 45m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

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
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

Steps:

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.