Brunilda Schiavone A delightful cherry tomato salad recipe offers a refreshing and healthy culinary experience. This recipe, focusing on simplicity and fresh ingredients, highlights the vibrant flavors of ripe cherry tomatoes. The instructions are straightforward, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. The resulting salad is a versatile side dish or light meal, adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs. This guide provides a complete overview, from ingredient selection to serving suggestions, ensuring a successful and enjoyable culinary outcome.
The cherry tomato salad recipe emphasizes the use of seasonal, high-quality ingredients. The recipe’s simplicity allows the natural flavors of the tomatoes to shine. Proper preparation techniques are key to achieving the desired texture and taste. The versatile nature of the recipe allows for easy customization, adapting to personal preferences and available ingredients. This guide details the recipe’s preparation process meticulously, ensuring successful replication.
The simplicity of this recipe allows for creative variations and personal touches. Experimentation with different herbs, cheeses, and dressings can significantly enhance the final product. The recipe’s ease of preparation makes it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Understanding the fundamental techniques detailed here will empower cooks to create consistently delicious variations.
Ingredients for this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- (Optional) 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions for this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
- In a medium bowl, combine the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped basil leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- (Optional) Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
This cherry tomato salad recipe requires minimal preparation time and yields a refreshing salad perfect for various occasions. The table below details the estimated preparation and serving information. The recipe’s simplicity makes it ideal for both quick weeknight meals and more elaborate gatherings. Adjusting the ingredient quantities allows for scaling the recipe to serve more or fewer people easily. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a visually appealing and delicious choice.
| Preparation Time | Servings |
|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 2-4 |
Nutritional Information for this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
This simple cherry tomato salad is naturally low in calories and high in vitamins and antioxidants, primarily from the tomatoes and basil. The olive oil provides healthy fats, contributing to overall nutritional value. The optional feta cheese adds protein and calcium. The minimal use of added salt contributes to a healthier dietary profile. Careful consideration of ingredient quality enhances the overall nutritional benefits.
(Note: The following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of your ingredients.)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-200 |
| Fat | 10-15g |
| Protein | 3-5g |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20g |
Tips for Making the Best Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
Achieving optimal flavor and texture requires attention to detail. This section highlights key techniques for enhancing the overall culinary experience. Following these tips will ensure a consistently delicious and visually appealing result. Experimentation with variations remains encouraged, but understanding the fundamentals provides a strong foundation.
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Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes:
The flavor of this salad hinges on the quality of the tomatoes. Choose ripe, flavorful cherry tomatoes for the best results. Avoid tomatoes that are bruised or overly soft. Consider using a variety of colors for visual appeal.
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Don’t overdress the salad:
Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. The goal is to lightly coat the tomatoes, not drown them. Taste and adjust accordingly.
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Add other fresh herbs:
Experiment with other fresh herbs such as oregano, thyme, or chives. The combination of herbs can enhance the overall flavor profile. Consider adding a small amount of finely chopped parsley for extra freshness.
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Use a good quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar:
The quality of the olive oil and balsamic vinegar will significantly impact the taste of the salad. Invest in good quality ingredients for the best results. Consider using a flavored balsamic vinegar for a more complex flavor profile.
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Let the flavors meld:
Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This step is especially important if using a strong-flavored ingredient like feta cheese. This will ensure a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Consider adding protein:
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more substantial salad. Adding protein increases satiety and nutritional value. Experiment with different protein sources for variety.
This simple cherry tomato salad recipe offers a healthy and refreshing culinary option. The recipes ease of preparation and adaptability to different tastes make it a versatile addition to any meal plan. The fresh, vibrant flavors are perfect for warm weather. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients.
Mastering this recipe provides a foundation for creating numerous variations. The fundamental techniques are transferable to other simple salad recipes. Experimentation and personal touch are encouraged, leading to unique culinary creations.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
This section addresses common inquiries concerning the recipes preparation, ingredients, and variations. Addressing these questions ensures a clear understanding and enhances the overall cooking experience. Feel free to experiment and adapt the recipe to suit your preferences.
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Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy. You can prepare the tomatoes, onions, and herbs in advance and store them separately. Combine them with the dressing right before serving.
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What other types of tomatoes can I use?
While cherry tomatoes are ideal, you can use other small tomatoes such as grape tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes. The size of the tomato will impact the cutting method; larger tomatoes may need to be chopped into smaller pieces. Experiment with different tomato varieties for varied flavors and colors.
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Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar. The type of vinegar will influence the overall taste profile of the salad. Consider the flavor profile of the chosen vinegar in relation to the other ingredients.
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What can I add to make it more filling?
To make the salad more substantial, add cooked quinoa, farro, or lentils. These additions enhance both the nutritional value and the filling properties of the salad. Consider the overall flavor balance when adding other grains or legumes.
This cherry tomato salad recipe is a testament to the culinary magic of simple ingredients. The recipe’s adaptability encourages creative exploration. The result is a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Ultimately, the success of this recipe lies in the quality of ingredients and attention to simple techniques. The outcome is a flavorful and visually appealing salad, perfect for various occasions. Enjoy the delicious and healthy outcome of this versatile recipe.