Discover the vibrant flavors of summer with our delightful Tomato Salad, or as the French say, "Salade de Tomates." This refreshing dish combines juicy, ripe tomatoes with the aromatic notes of fresh basil and the zing of red onion, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a light, standalone treat. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a colorful salad that will impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your dining experience? Dive into this simple yet exquisite recipe that celebrates the essence of fresh ingredients!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Select 4 ripe tomatoes, ensuring they are firm yet slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or residue, then slice them into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. Place the sliced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, take 1/2 of a red onion. Peel the outer skin and cut it in half. Using a sharp knife, slice the onion thinly, aiming for consistent, thin slices for a balanced flavor in the salad. Add the sliced onion to the bowl with the tomatoes.
- Now, prepare the fresh basil. Take 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, and if they are large, you may want to tear them into smaller pieces to release their aromatic oils. Chop the basil roughly and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and onions.
- In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar. Whisk or shake well to emulsify the dressing. This will help to evenly coat the salad ingredients.
- Drizzle the dressing over the tomato, onion, and basil mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or your hands to gently toss the salad, ensuring that the tomatoes and onions are well coated with the dressing without breaking the tomato slices.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, then adjust according to your preference. Toss the salad gently once more to incorporate the seasoning.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This resting time enhances the taste and brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Finally, serve the tomato salad on individual plates or a large serving platter. You may garnish with additional basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Tomato Salad as a side dish or a light meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom varieties can add unique tastes and colors to your salad.
- Slice Evenly: Aim for uniform tomato and onion slices to ensure a balanced texture and flavor in every bite.
- Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes after tossing. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Experiment with Herbs: While basil is a classic choice, feel free to add other herbs like parsley or oregano for a twist on the traditional recipe.
- Adjust the Dressing: Don’t hesitate to tweak the olive oil and vinegar proportions to match your taste preferences. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors!
- Serve Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so prepare it just before serving to retain the tomatoes' crispness and juiciness.
- Pair It Right: This Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, crusty bread, or as a topping for bruschetta.Enjoy creating your perfect Tomato Salad, and savor the taste of fresh ingredients in every bite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
