Tomato Basil Salad π πΏ
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2-4
Description:
This Tomato Basil Salad recipe is a delightful blend of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and zesty garlic, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a perfect dish for those seeking a healthy, low-cholesterol option that bursts with flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking less than 15 minutes from start to finish! Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 2-4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 clove garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt
- Freshly ground pepper
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare Tomatoes: Begin by cutting the tomatoes into quarters or eighths, depending on their size. The goal is to have bite-sized pieces that are easy to enjoy. |
| 2 | Prep Basil: Roughly chop the fresh basil leaves and place them in a glass container. Basil adds a burst of freshness and aroma to the salad, enhancing its overall flavor. |
| 3 | Add Garlic: Peel and finely chop the garlic clove, then add it to the container with the basil. Garlic infuses the salad with its distinctive taste, complementing the sweetness of the tomatoes. |
| 4 | Make Vinaigrette: In a separate bowl, mix together a couple of tablespoons each of balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. This combination creates a tangy and flavorful dressing that ties the salad together. |
| 5 | Combine Ingredients: Pour the vinaigrette over the basil and garlic mixture, ensuring that everything is evenly coated. The vinaigrette will infuse the basil and garlic with its delicious flavor, enhancing their taste. |
| 6 | Season: Season the salad with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. These simple seasonings elevate the flavors of the tomatoes, basil, and garlic, adding depth to the dish. |
| 7 | Marinate: Cover the container tightly and allow the salad to marinate at room temperature for 6-8 hours. This marinating time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more vibrant and delicious salad. |
| 8 | Serve: Once the salad has marinated, it’s ready to serve! Be sure not to refrigerate it before serving, as the flavors are best enjoyed at room temperature. |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 29.2 per serving
- Fat Content: 0.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 7.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 5.8g
- Fiber Content: 1.9g
- Sugar Content: 3.3g
- Protein Content: 1.9g
Keywords:
Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Quick & Easy
Tips:
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or diced red onions over the salad before serving.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a spicy kick.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume it on the same day it’s prepared for the most vibrant flavors.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other ingredients such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
This Tomato Basil Salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that celebrates the freshness of summer produce. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s sure to brighten up any meal!
