🥑🥗🍅🌿 Here’s a detailed response about Avocado Salad with Warm Tomato-Basil Vinaigrette!
What is Avocado Salad with Warm Tomato-Basil Vinaigrette?
Avocado Salad with Warm Tomato-Basil Vinaigrette is a delightful and healthy dish that combines the creamy richness of avocados with the vibrant flavors of a warm tomato-basil vinaigrette. This salad is not only visually appealing but also a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a light, refreshing, and nutritious meal.
History:
The specific origin of this salad is hard to trace, but it’s a product of contemporary culinary creativity. The combination of avocados and a warm tomato-basil vinaigrette is inspired by Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines. The use of avocados is common in dishes from Central and South America, while the tomato and basil vinaigrette draws inspiration from the Italian Caprese salad.
Components:
- Ripe avocados: The star of the show, providing creaminess and healthy fats.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes, preferably heirloom or cherry tomatoes, for a burst of color and flavor.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant, herbaceous note to the vinaigrette.
- Olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil for the vinaigrette.
- Balsamic vinegar: For a sweet and tangy element in the vinaigrette.
- Garlic: Adds depth and flavor to the dressing.
- Red onion: Provides a mild, crisp bite and a touch of color.
- Salt and pepper: To season the salad.
- Optional extras: You can customize your salad with ingredients like mozzarella cheese, pine nuts, or fresh lemon juice for extra zest.
Steps to Prepare:
- Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant. Stir in balsamic vinegar, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat.
- Prepare the salad ingredients: Slice ripe avocados and tomatoes. Thinly slice red onions. If you’re using additional ingredients like mozzarella or pine nuts, have them ready.
- Assemble the salad: Arrange avocado and tomato slices on a serving plate. Sprinkle sliced red onions on top. If you’re using mozzarella or pine nuts, add them now.
- Drizzle the warm tomato-basil vinaigrette over the salad.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this salad typically takes around 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for a light meal or appetizer. It’s an ideal choice for a busy weeknight or when you want a healthy and delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy your Avocado Salad with Warm Tomato-Basil Vinaigrette! 🍴🥑🍅🌿
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Avocado Salad with Warm Tomato-Basil Vinaigrette:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximately):
- Calories: 200-250 calories
- Total Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 6-8 grams
- Sugars: 3-5 grams
- Protein: 3-5 grams
Health Information:
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Healthy Fats: Avocado Salad with Warm Tomato-Basil Vinaigrette is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, mainly from avocados and olive oil. These fats can help improve your cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Dietary Fiber: The salad contains a good amount of dietary fiber from avocados, which is essential for digestive health. Fiber helps with satiety and can aid in weight management.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Avocado is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Tomatoes contribute vitamin C and other antioxidants.
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Low in Added Sugars: The salad is naturally low in added sugars, making it a healthier choice for those watching their sugar intake.
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Antioxidants: The tomatoes and basil in the vinaigrette provide antioxidants like lycopene and flavonoids, which have been associated with various health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases.
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Low in Processed Ingredients: This salad is primarily composed of whole, fresh ingredients, which is a healthier option compared to processed and pre-packaged meals.
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Customizable: You can further enhance the nutritional profile by adding ingredients like nuts or seeds for extra protein and healthy fats.
Keep in mind that the specific nutritional content can vary depending on the portion size and additional ingredients you choose to add. Overall, Avocado Salad with Warm Tomato-Basil Vinaigrette is a nutritious choice that can be part of a balanced and healthy diet. Enjoy this flavorful and health-conscious dish! 🥑🍅🌿
