Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, over medium-high heat.
Using a paring knife, slit a shallow X on the bottom of each tomato.
Carefully lower the tomatoes into the boiling water, using a slotted spoon. You might have to blanch them in batches if necessary.
Blanch them for 30-60 seconds or until you see that the skin is starting to lift off around the X slit.
Transfer the tomatoes to the ice water bowl to stop the cooking process.
Once they are cool enough to handle, pull their skin off. It should come off really easily! If not, pop the stubborn ones back in the boiling water until it does.
Optional: you can then core the tomatoes and/or scoop their seeds out.