Smashed Tomato and Olive Salad
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful recipe from Jamie Oliver that’s both simple and splendid! This Smashed Tomato and Olive Salad is a wonderfully easy addition to any dinner. Jamie Oliver suggests an interesting twist—adding any leftovers to hot spaghetti. I gave this a try with some zucchini ribbons, and let me tell you, it was absolutely fabulous! Perfect for those moments when you need a quick, refreshing dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
To create this flavorful salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, washed and halved
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 5 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces
- 1/2 cup pitted olives, roughly chopped (optional for added richness)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 208.7
- Fat Content: 19.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.7 g
- Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
- Sodium Content: 158 mg
- Carbohydrates: 9.8 g
- Fiber: 3.2 g
- Sugar: 5.9 g
- Protein: 2.1 g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Instructions
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Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by placing your cherry tomatoes in a serving bowl. Using the back of a fork or a potato masher, gently squeeze and crush the tomatoes. This will release their juices and enhance their natural sweetness. 🍅
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Add the Olives: If you’re using olives, add them to the bowl with the tomatoes. Squeeze them lightly as well to release their flavor into the mix. The olives add a wonderful briny depth to the salad. 🫒
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Season the Salad: Pour the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar over the tomatoes and olives. This combination creates a light, tangy dressing that perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. Mix gently to ensure everything is well-coated.
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Add Fresh Basil: Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them generously over the salad. The basil not only adds a burst of fresh flavor but also brings a beautiful green color to the dish. 🌿
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Rest and Serve: Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. It’s ready to enjoy as is or you can use it as a topping for hot spaghetti, zucchini ribbons, or any other dish you fancy. 🍽️
Serving Suggestions
This Smashed Tomato and Olive Salad is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a standalone salad, serve it alongside grilled meats, or mix it into pasta dishes for a delightful twist. For an added touch, consider drizzling a bit more olive oil or sprinkling some sea salt before serving.
Final Touch
Voilà! You have a simple yet mouthwatering salad that’s perfect for a quick meal or as a complement to your main course. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation that this recipe brings to your kitchen. 🍽️✨
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own by experimenting with different herbs or adding a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra richness. Enjoy every bite of this fresh and flavorful creation!
