3 pounds ripe plum tomatoes
1 1/2 cups olive oil
2 teaspoons salt

Preheat oven to 150 degrees F.

Rinse tomatoes in warm water and pat dry. Cut lengthwise and place, cut side up, on a cake rack over a baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt. Place racks of tomatoes in the oven and leave the door ajar about 4 inches. Check temperature every 2 hours and turn the pans to ensure even drying. Turn the oven off for 30 minutes if the temperature rises over 150 degrees F. Dry for 12 hours or until tomatoes are flexible, but not moist. Cool.

Pack dried tomatoes in a sterilized glass jar, cover with olive oil, and store in a cool, dry place for 1 month before using.

Use tomatoes with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil. Always save the oil and use it in salads.