CARAMELIZED TOMATO SALAD WITH SAN SIMóN CHEESE

Caramelized Tomato Salad with San Simón Cheese image

Provided by José Andrés

Yield Makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

2 cups olive oil
1 3/4 pounds cherry tomatoes, divided
1/2 cup sugar
2 large fresh thyme sprigs
1/3 cup Sherry wine vinegar
8 ounces San Simón cheese,* cut into 1/3-inch cubes
8 green onions, thinly sliced
Fresh chervil sprigs (for garnish)
16 toasted baguette slices

Steps:

Preheat oven to 275°F. Place oil, 3/4 pound tomatoes, sugar, and thyme in 8 x 8 x 2-inch metal baking dish. Roast until tomatoes are very tender, about 2 1/2 hours. Cool caramelized tomatoes in oil. DO AHEAD: Can be made 2 days ahead; cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before continuing.
Using slotted spoon, transfer tomatoes to large bowl. Transfer 1 cup oil from tomatoes to medium bowl (reserve any remaining oil for another use). Add vinegar to oil in medium bowl; whisk to blend. Season dressing with salt and pepper.
Add 1 pound fresh tomatoes, cheese, and dressing to bowl with caramelized tomatoes; toss gently. Top with green onions and chervil. Serve with toasts.
San Simón_cheese, a smoked cheese shaped like a bell, is sold at natural foods stores, specialty foods stores, and latienda. com. Smoked Gouda can be substituted._