Tomato Salad

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. This tomato salad bursts with flavor, showcasing the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes combined with crisp onions and fragrant herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is not only refreshing but also easy to prepare. The bright colors and fresh ingredients will surely entice anyone at the table, making it a must-try for summer gatherings or everyday meals.

Ingredients

• 4 medium ripe tomatoes (variety of colors)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: feta cheese, for topping

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking time required.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 120 calories, 8g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, 2g of protein, and 3g of fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under running water.
2. Slice the tomatoes into wedges or rounds, depending on your preference.
3. Dice the cucumber into small pieces for added crunch.
4. Thinly slice the red onion; soak in cold water for a few minutes to reduce sharpness.
5. In a large bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
6. Add the torn basil leaves to the bowl for a fresh aroma.
7. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
9. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients without mashing the tomatoes.
10. Optional: sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving for extra flavor.

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese. You can also replace basil with parsley or mint for a different flavor profile. Adding avocado can enhance creaminess.

Serving and Pairings

This tomato salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as a side to pasta dishes. It can also be enjoyed with crusty bread or served as a light lunch.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh. It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the tomatoes may change.

Cooking Mistakes

• Using unripe tomatoes can lead to a bland salad.
• Overdressing the salad can make it soggy.
• Not seasoning adequately can dull the flavors.
• Chopping vegetables too early can cause them to lose freshness.
• Forgetting to soak the onions can make them too pungent.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a variety of tomato colors for a visually appealing salad.
• Experiment with different herbs to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Use high-quality olive oil for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I make tomato salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to combine them shortly before serving to maintain freshness.

What type of tomatoes are best for salad?

Ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal for salad due to their sweetness and juiciness.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, radishes, and avocados can be great additions for extra crunch and flavor.

Is tomato salad healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

How can I make the salad more filling?

To make it more filling, add proteins like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this tomato salad is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrients. It’s a versatile dish that can complement any meal, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the freshness and enjoy every bite!

Tomato Salad

This tomato salad bursts with flavor, showcasing the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes combined with crisp onions and fragrant herbs. It's perfect as a side dish or a light meal.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: tomato salad, fresh salad, healthy recipes

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

• 4 medium ripe tomatoes
• 1 small red onion thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: feta cheese for topping

Instructions

• Wash all the vegetables thoroughly under running water.
• Slice the tomatoes into wedges or rounds.
• Dice the cucumber into small pieces.
• Thinly slice the red onion; soak in cold water for a few minutes.
• In a large bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
• Add the torn basil leaves to the bowl.
• Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
• Optional: sprinkle feta cheese on top before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 3g