Make an "x" in the bottom of the
tomato to allow for splitting.

When using tomatoes in pasta sauce or salsa, the peels and seeds often need to be removed. Here's an easy way:

1. Make a shallow x on the bottom of the tomato; then place the tomato on a slotted spoon. Dip it into a pan of boiling water for 15 seconds; rinse with cold water.
2. After the tomato has cooled slightly, use a paring knife to gently pull on the peel where the scored skin has begun to split. The skin will slip off easily.
3. To remove the seeds, cut the tomato in half crosswise. Holding one half over a bowl, use the tip of a spoon to scoop out the seeds.