Experience the essence of Italian summer with this simple yet incredibly flavorful tomato salad. Bursting with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, this dish captures the pure, unadulterated taste of ripe tomatoes, sharp garlic, and aromatic basil. Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or appetizer, this salad brings the warmth of Italian cuisine directly to your table.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 3 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3-4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tsp dried basil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Serve with 1 baguette or white bread
Metric Measurements
- 3 reife Tomaten
- 1 mittlere Zwiebel
- 3 Knoblauchzehen
- 45-60 ml natives Olivenöl
- 1-2 TL getrockneter Basilikum
- Salz nach Geschmack
- Frisch gemahlener schwarzer Pfeffer
- Servieren mit 1 Baguette oder weißem Brot
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables
- Wash tomatoes thoroughly
- Cut tomatoes into small, uniform cubes
- Peel and finely dice the onion
- Finely mince garlic or press through a garlic press
- Combine Ingredients
- Place chopped tomatoes in a serving bowl
- Add diced onions
- Sprinkle minced garlic over the vegetables
- Collect any tomato juice in the bowl
- Season the Salad
- Sprinkle dried basil over the vegetables
- Add salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously
- Gently toss all ingredients to combine
- Serving
- Let salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld
- Serve at room temperature
- Accompany with fresh baguette or toasted white bread
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
- Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for maximum flavor
- Use extra virgin olive oil for authentic Italian taste
- Allow salad to rest to develop deeper flavors
- Adjust seasoning to personal preference
- Use fresh garlic for most intense flavor
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb Alternatives:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Dried oregano
- Mixed Italian herbs
- Fresh parsley
- Additional Mix-Ins:
- Mozzarella cheese
- Fresh cucumber
- Kalamata olives
- Fresh arugula
- Bread Options:
- Ciabatta
- Focaccia
- Whole grain bread
- Gluten-free bread alternative
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this salad in advance? A: Best served fresh, but can be prepared 1-2 hours before serving. Add salt just before serving to prevent watering.
Q2: Are there vegan options? A: This recipe is naturally vegan. Ensure bread choice is also vegan.
Q3: How do I select the best tomatoes? A: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes with vibrant color and slight give when pressed.
Q4: Can I use canned tomatoes? A: Fresh tomatoes are recommended. Canned will alter texture and flavor significantly.
Q5: Is this dish gluten-free? A: The salad is gluten-free. Choose gluten-free bread if needed.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours
- Best Consumed: Within 4-6 hours of preparation
- Avoid Freezing: Will destroy texture of tomatoes
- Tip: Keep bread separate to prevent sogginess
Enjoy this quintessential Italian tomato salad – a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients that showcase the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine!