Imagine a burst of vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and restaurant-quality elegance right on your plate - that's exactly what this Heirloom Tomato and Arugula Salad delivers! This isn't just another ordinary salad; it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms simple, fresh ingredients into a mouthwatering experience that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched countryside of Italy. Whether you're hosting a summer dinner party or craving a light, nutritious meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups heirloom tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups arugula
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Carefully wash the heirloom tomatoes under cool running water, gently pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Using a sharp chef's knife, chop the heirloom tomatoes into bite-sized, roughly 1/2-inch cubes, ensuring uniform size for consistent presentation.
- Thinly slice the red onion using a mandoline or sharp knife, creating delicate, translucent rings or half-moons.
- Rinse the fresh arugula leaves thoroughly and spin dry in a salad spinner or pat gently with clean kitchen towels to remove excess water.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a simple vinaigrette.
- Chop fresh basil leaves using a chiffonade technique by stacking leaves, rolling tightly, and slicing into thin ribbons.
- In a large serving bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, arugula, sliced red onion, and chopped basil.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure even coating of ingredients.
- Let the salad rest for 5 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.
Tips
- Choose peak-season heirloom tomatoes for maximum flavor and color variety
- Use a sharp knife to ensure clean, precise cuts that maintain ingredient integrity
- Let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to harmonize
- Select high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar for superior taste
- Serve immediately at room temperature to preserve the delicate texture of tomatoes
- Experiment with different herb combinations like adding fresh mint or oregano
- For added texture, consider sprinkling toasted pine nuts or crumbled feta cheese
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
