Tomato Basil Salad

Every bite of our Tomato Basil Salad is a zesty taste explosion. This refreshing salad boasts the classic savory-sweet combo of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, sprinkled with a touch of mozzarella for a perfect balance of flavor. This salad does justice to picnics, backyard BBQs and any old lunch you might have! For the folks looking for a light and fresh way to get their daily veggie intake, this salad is the answer to their prayers. Trust me folks, once you’ve had a taste of this amazing salad, you’d regret not discovering it sooner!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: No cooking needed!
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Yield: 4 cups

Alright, roll up your sleeves, gather your fresh ingredients and let’s get started with cooking up this refreshing salad!

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• 4 ripe tomatoes
• 15 fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

Equipment:

• Chef���s knife
• Cutting board

Tomatoes and basil are the stars of this dish, providing that delicious umami taste and refreshing aroma. Olive oil is used for its rich, earthy flavor, whilst the balsamic glaze gives the salad a sweet and tangy kick. Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy texture, perfectly complimenting the juicy tomatoes. The result is a light, refreshing salad that has a vibrant and balanced flavor profile.

If you can’t find balsamic glaze, you can reduce regular balsamic vinegar to get the same effect. Very ripe tomatoes are key for this dish, do not use cherry or plum tomatoes.

How To Make Tomato Basil Salad

1. Wash the tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly under running water.
2. Chop the tomatoes into bite-size pieces, cut the mozzarella into bite-sized chunks and thinly slice the basil.
3. Put the chopped ingredients in a large salad bowl and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and give the salad a good mix.
5. Be sure to refrigerate for at least one hour before serving! This allows all the flavors to meld together for a richer, deeper taste.

Tips For The Best Results

• Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Salt the tomatoes first and let them sit for a few minutes to let the flavors bloom.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftover salad in a sealed container for up to 2 days.
• The salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the tomatoes may lose their texture over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of a fresh one?
A: I highly recommend using fresh basil as it has a more potent flavor, but you can use dried basil as a last resort.

Q: What kind of tomato do you recommend?
A: Large, ripe tomatoes work best for this salad. Beefsteak tomatoes would be a great option.

Q: Can I substitute the mozzarella?
A: Yes, you can use any soft cheese like burrata or camembert. But just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
A: Yes. Just replace the mozzarella with tofu or a vegan cheese of your choice.

Q: Can I prep this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can, but it���s best to add the dressing just before you serve it to maintain the freshness and crunch.

Nutritional Facts of Tomato Basil Salad

This salad is high in Vitamin C and fiber. Total Fat 9.6 g, Sodium 40 mg, Potassium 529 mg, Total Carbohydrate 11.7 g, Protein 5.9 g.

So there we have it, our tangy, savory Tomato Basil Salad. Trust me, folks, you’ll be surprised at the burst of flavor in every bite. The ripe tomatoes, tangy olives and zesty basil combine to create a true party in your mouth. Serving this alongside grilled chicken or just with a crispy baguette is my personal favorite. Enjoy!