Nothing says summer like the abundance of ripe, juicy tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes bursting with flavor and nutrients are an essential ingredient in many recipes. Today, let’s whip up a delightful dish that celebrates the simplicity and freshness of this seasonal fruit – Easy Fresh Tomato Salad. This salad is a delicious way to enjoy the bright flavors of tomatoes, paired with crisp cucumbers, fragrant herbs, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, this recipe is quick to make and bursting with summer goodness.
**Easy Fresh Tomato Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, chopped red onion, and torn basil leaves. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the tomato mixture in the large bowl. Carefully toss the salad until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
4. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
5. Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the Easy Fresh Tomato Salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors of this refreshing dish!
Fresh tomatoes pack a nutritional punch with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this salad not only delicious but also a healthy choice. The combination of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic basil creates a harmonious medley of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The light and tangy dressing pulls all the ingredients together, adding a burst of freshness to every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, looking for a quick side dish, or simply craving a light and flavorful meal, this Easy Fresh Tomato Salad is a fantastic option. It’s versatile enough to complement a variety of main courses or stand on its own as a satisfying vegetarian dish. Plus, the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and cucumbers make it an eye-catching addition to any table spread.
Take advantage of the bountiful tomato season and whip up this Easy Fresh Tomato Salad for a taste of summer in every bite. Embrace the simplicity of seasonal ingredients and let their natural flavors shine through. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends with its bright and refreshing appeal. Enjoy the essence of summer with this delightful salad!