Description
A fresh and vibrant tomato salad featuring ripe tomatoes, minced eschalots and garlic, dressed with white wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, and garnished with fragrant basil leaves. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect as a side or a light snack, ideal for summer or anytime you crave a refreshing salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomatoes
- 4 ripe tomatoes (each approx. 180g/6oz)
Salad Dressing and Flavorings
- 1 1/2 tsp finely minced eschalots (shallots)
- 1/2 tsp finely minced garlic (chopped with knife, not pressed)
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 tsp cooking or kosher salt
- 2 pinches white pepper
- 1 1/2 tbsp finely sliced fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes: Cut the ripe tomatoes into 8 or 10 wedges each, carefully removing the core to avoid bitterness. Place the cut tomatoes into a large mixing bowl.
- Add aromatics and season: Sprinkle the minced eschalots and garlic evenly over the tomatoes. Add the kosher salt and white pepper to season the mixture well.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the tomatoes with the extra virgin olive oil and white wine vinegar. Gently toss everything together to coat the tomato wedges evenly without breaking them.
- Incorporate basil and finish: Add the finely sliced basil leaves to the bowl, and toss gently once more to distribute the fresh herb throughout the salad.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or plate and garnish with additional basil leaves if desired. Serve right away to enjoy the freshness; optionally, accompany with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Finely mince the eschalots and garlic by hand to avoid a harsh bite from over-processing.
- White wine vinegar adds a mild acidity that complements the tomatoes without overpowering.
- Extra virgin olive oil provides richness and depth to the dressing.
- Fresh basil is essential for authentic flavor; add just before serving to preserve its vibrant aroma.
- Serve immediately as the salad can become watery if left to sit.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: tomato salad, fresh tomato recipe, basil salad, easy summer salad, no-cook salad, Mediterranean salad
