Youll no doubt enjoy thick slabs onBLTsandtomato sandwiches, or as is on a seasonal veggie plate.

Youll also probably enjoy them cut into wedges and tossed into a light, refreshing salad.

And for those times, you oughta know how to peel a tomato.

Southern Living How to Peel Tomatoes tomatoes on a plate ready to use

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

When and Why Should You Peel Tomatoes?

This is why you should also peel them if youre making atomato saucethat you want to be smooth.

Finally, tomato skins can taste bitter, so for the sweetest flavor, opt for peeling.

Southern LIving How to Peel Tomatoes fresh tomatoes before peeling

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

The teeth of the blade grip the skin and allow you to remove it without gouging the fruit.

Make an ice bath:

Prepare an ice bath and place next to the stovetop.

Southern Living How to Peel Tomatoes boiling the water

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living How to Peel Tomatoes preparing the ice bath

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living How to Peel Tomatoes scoring the tomatoes

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living How to Peel Tomatoes skin peeling back from where the tomatoes were scored

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living How to Peel Tomatoes placing the tomatoes in the ice bath

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living How to Peel Tomatoes peeling the tomatoes

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox