Three Tomato Salad Recipe: A Symphony of Fresh Flavors
Overview
The Three Tomato Salad from Love With Recipes is an effortless yet elegant dish that brings together a medley of tomatoes for a refreshing, colorful, and healthy treat. Perfect for summer picnics, light lunches, or a vibrant side dish, this salad celebrates the diverse flavors of tomatoes with a simple but flavorful vinaigrette.
Key Features
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine Type: Vegetable
- Keywords: Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 15 Mins, No Cook, Refrigerator
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: 26.2 kcal
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 26.2 kcal
- Fat Content: 0.3 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0 g
- Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
- Sodium Content: 114.6 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 5.3 g
- Fiber Content: 1.1 g
- Sugar Content: 3.7 g
- Protein Content: 1.2 g
Ingredients
- 1 mushroom
- 2 tomatoes
- 1/2 cup yellow pear tomato
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp prepared mustard
- 1 tsp basil
- 2 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Instructions
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Arrange the Ingredients:
- Layer the sliced mushrooms and the large sliced tomatoes down the center of a large platter.
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Add the Halved Tomatoes:
- Surround the central layer with halved yellow pear and cherry tomatoes, creating a vibrant ring around the mushrooms and tomatoes.
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Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, prepared mustard, basil, cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
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Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the layered tomatoes and mushrooms, ensuring even coverage.
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Marinate:
- Cover the salad and allow it to marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. This step lets the flavors meld and intensify.
Detailed Ingredient Insights
- Mushroom: Adds an earthy flavor and unique texture that complements the freshness of the tomatoes.
- Tomatoes: Use firm, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. The different varieties of tomatoes add depth and contrast to the salad.
- Yellow Pear Tomato: These small, yellow tomatoes bring a mild sweetness and a pop of color.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Known for their juicy and slightly sweet flavor, cherry tomatoes balance the tartness of the other ingredients.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
- Prepared Mustard: Adds a tangy, sharp note that enhances the overall flavor.
- Basil: Fresh or dried, basil adds a fragrant, peppery flavor that elevates the salad.
- Cider Vinegar: Provides the necessary acidity to create a refreshing vinaigrette.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the salad.
Culinary Tips and Variations
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Tomato Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes such as heirloom or grape tomatoes for additional colors and flavors.
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Additional Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or oregano can be added for more complexity.
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Cheese Option: Sprinkle crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan over the salad for a richer taste.
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Nut Addition: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can add a delightful crunch.
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Oil Option: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can be added to the vinaigrette for a richer dressing.
Pairing Suggestions
This Three Tomato Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or can be served alongside a crusty bread for a light, yet satisfying meal. Here are some pairing ideas:
- Grilled Chicken: The salad’s acidity cuts through the richness of grilled chicken, enhancing its flavors.
- Fish Tacos: The freshness of the salad complements the bold flavors of fish tacos.
- Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside a creamy pasta dish to balance out the richness with its fresh, bright flavors.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 days, but the tomatoes may lose some texture.
- Serving: Serve chilled or at room temperature. If the salad has been refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to enhance its flavors.
Cultural and Historical Context
Tomato salads have been a staple in various cultures around the world, celebrating the bounty of fresh produce available during the summer months. This Three Tomato Salad is a modern take on classic tomato-based salads, incorporating a variety of tomatoes for a visual and flavor feast. The simplicity of the vinaigrette allows the natural flavors of the tomatoes to shine, a nod to traditional Mediterranean and Italian cuisine where fresh, high-quality ingredients are celebrated with minimal adornment.
User Review
This recipe has been highly rated for its simplicity and fresh flavors. One reviewer mentioned, “This Three Tomato Salad is a perfect quick fix for a light meal or a side dish. The variety of tomatoes makes it interesting, and the dressing is just right—not overpowering, but adds a nice zest.”
Final Thoughts
The Three Tomato Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a burst of freshness and a vibrant array of colors. Its minimal preparation time and simple ingredients make it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy the natural goodness of tomatoes. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a side dish to impress at your next gathering, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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Enjoy the bounty of summer with this refreshing and healthy Three Tomato Salad. Happy cooking!