Imagine a simple, vibrant dish that can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary in just minutes. This Italian-inspired Tomato and Balsamic Vinaigrette is not just a recipe—it's a culinary revelation that combines the fresh, juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the rich, tangy complexity of balsamic vinegar. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this incredibly easy recipe will become your new secret weapon for adding instant flavor to salads, grilled meats, and appetizers.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully dice the tomatoes into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size. Place the diced tomatoes in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Peel the garlic clove and finely mince it using a sharp knife or a garlic press. The finer the mince, the more evenly the garlic flavor will distribute.
- Add the minced garlic to the bowl with the diced tomatoes.
- Measure out 1/4 cup of high-quality balsamic vinegar and pour it over the tomatoes and garlic.
- Measure out 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil and add it to the mixture.
- Season the vinaigrette with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small pinch of each and adjust according to your preference.
- Gently toss the ingredients together, ensuring the tomatoes are evenly coated with the vinaigrette.
- Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together at room temperature.
- Serve immediately as a salad, side dish, or topping for grilled meats or bruschetta.
Tips
- Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture and flavor. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work exceptionally well.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Let the vinaigrette sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- For a gourmet twist, add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to complement the tomato and balsamic combination.
- Serve at room temperature to maximize the depth of flavors and ensure the best taste experience.
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can briefly pulse the mixture in a food processor, but be careful not to over-blend.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
