Imagine a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors that capture the essence of summer in a single bite. Cathie's Summer Tomato Salad is not just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. With its perfect balance of juicy tomatoes, zesty red onions, and aromatic basil, this salad is about to become your new seasonal obsession. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dish that's so easy to make, yet tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 large tomatoes, 1/2 red onion, 1/4 cup fresh basil, 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Once dry, carefully dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity in size for even distribution in the salad.
- Next, take the red onion and peel off the outer layers. Slice the onion thinly, ensuring the slices are even to avoid overpowering bites.
- Chop the fresh basil leaves into small pieces. You can stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and then slice them to create a chiffonade for a more refined presentation.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped basil. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix them evenly.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the salad mixture. Use a gentle hand to toss the salad again, ensuring the vinegar coats all the ingredients without bruising the tomatoes.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small pinch of each and adjust according to your preference.
- Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together. This will enhance the overall taste.
- Serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy your refreshing Cathie's Summer Tomato Salad as a side dish or a light meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Select ripe, firm tomatoes at the peak of their season for maximum flavor. Heirloom or vine-ripened varieties work best.
- Slice with Precision: Use a sharp knife when dicing tomatoes and slicing onions to ensure clean, even cuts that look as good as they taste.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly picked basil if possible. The aroma and flavor will elevate the entire dish.
- Balsamic Vinegar Trick: For an extra flavor boost, use a high-quality aged balsamic vinegar. The richer the vinegar, the more depth your salad will have.
- Marination Magic: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled or at room temperature. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone light lunch.
- Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, consume within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg