A burst of freshness, a medley of colors, and an aroma that’s pure summer—this Tomato Basil Salad has it all. Imagine juicy, ripe tomatoes dancing with fragrant basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil, and sprinkled with salt. It’s like a flavor explosion that immediately transports you to a sun-drenched Italian terrace. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
The first time I made this salad, I was trying to impress my friends during a backyard barbecue. Little did I know it would steal the show! Now, every summer gathering feels incomplete without it. Whether it’s alongside grilled meats or just on its own, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Trust me; your taste buds will be singing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Tomato Basil Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights
- Its bold flavors create a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with almost any main course
- The vibrant colors can brighten up any table setting and are sure to impress your guests at gatherings
- Plus, you can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
I still remember my friend Sarah’s reaction when she took her first bite—her eyes widened with delight as if she had discovered a hidden treasure in the world of salads.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Tomatoes: Look for plump, juicy tomatoes; heirloom varieties are particularly flavorful.
- Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green leaves without blemishes for the best taste and aroma.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use high-quality oil to enhance the salad’s flavor profile.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle adds depth; select a good quality for maximum impact.
- Salt and Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper and sea salt elevate all the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. Have everything prepped so you can enjoy the process without interruptions.
Chop Those Tomatoes: Cut your ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Aim for consistency in size so they marinate evenly and look appealing on the plate.
Tear the Basil Leaves: Gently tear fresh basil leaves instead of chopping them—this preserves their aromatic oils and keeps their vibrant color intact.
Mix It Up!: In a large bowl, combine tomatoes and basil. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create a delicious dressing that complements both ingredients perfectly.
Add Salt and Pepper: Season generously with freshly cracked salt and pepper. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy!: Allow your salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This lets all those flavors mingle while you marvel at how easy yet impressive this dish truly is!
Now you’re armed with an easy yet stunning Tomato Basil Salad recipe that’s ready to become your new favorite dish for any gathering or quiet evening at home!
You Must Know
- This delightful Tomato Basil Salad bursts with fresh flavors and colors
- The simplicity of the ingredients makes it a perfect side or refreshing snack, while also being a fantastic way to use ripe tomatoes from your garden
- Serve it chilled for the best experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing your tomatoes and mozzarella into bite-sized pieces. Add fresh basil and drizzle with olive oil while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste for an exquisite finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap mozzarella for feta cheese or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra zing. Experimenting with these tweaks can elevate your Tomato Basil Salad to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Avoid reheating, as this salad is best enjoyed cold and fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum flavor in your Tomato Basil Salad, always use the ripest tomatoes available
- They contribute sweetness and juiciness that elevate the dish
- Always tear basil leaves instead of cutting them; this preserves their essential oils
- Lastly, let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor blending
Sharing my first experience making Tomato Basil Salad brings back memories of my family gathering around the table, raving about how delicious it was, especially when I added a hint of garlic.
FAQ
What tomatoes are best for Tomato Basil Salad?
Ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes work best for vibrant flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh, but you can prep ingredients a few hours in advance.
What should I serve with Tomato Basil Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a light appetizer on its own.
Tomato Basil Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing Tomato Basil Salad. Juicy heirloom tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil come together to create a colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Ideal as a side or light appetizer, this salad is not only simple to prepare but also a delightful way to showcase fresh ingredients. Impress your guests and elevate your meals with this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 ripe heirloom tomatoes, chopped (about 500g)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your counter.
- Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine tomatoes and basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; toss gently.
- Season with salt and pepper; mix until well combined.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Raw
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg