Size matters. This isn't the time for a mammoth Oven Stuffer, nor do we want some petite poussin a 3½–4-lb. bird has the proportions we're after. When the breasts are roasted to perfection, all that dark meat is on-the-nose-done too.
Salting and straining ripe tomatoes extracts their flavorful juices; when combined with verdant basil oil, it makes a slightly sweet and vegetal salad dressing.