Description
A fresh and delightful salad bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup creamy dressing (yogurt or mayo)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by slicing the ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Your choice of firmness matters; opt for juicy tomatoes that yield gently under pressure without being overly mushy. Place the chopped tomatoes into a large mixing bowl, where they can be complemented by the other ingredients.
- Now, it’s time to infuse some exciting flavors. Add the minced garlic cloves and chopped basil to the tomatoes. Garlic adds a delightful pungent kick, enhancing the overall experience, while fresh basil introduces a fragrant herbal note that perfectly balances the richness of the creamy dressing.
- In a smaller bowl, combine the creamy dressing (yogurt or mayonnaise) with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Whisk these together until you achieve a smooth consistency. This creamy concoction will envelop the tomatoes in lusciousness, accentuating their natural sweetness. Feel free to tweak the dressing—add more vinegar for tang or a pinch of sugar for sweetness if desired.
- Carefully pour the creamy dressing mixture over the tomato mix. With gentleness, toss the ingredients, ensuring that the tomatoes are well-coated without mashing them. The goal is to maintain the integrity of each tomato piece while allowing every morsel to pick up the flavors of the dressing.
- Once everything is combined, season the salad with salt and black pepper to your liking. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top for an extra layer of umami flavor. The cheese adds a lovely salty crunch that complements the creaminess and the juicy tomatoes beautifully.
- Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes prior to serving. This chilling time is essential, as it lets the flavors meld together, creating a salad that is richer and more harmonious. Serve it cold as a refreshing side or main dish.
Notes
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, although the tomatoes will become slightly softer over time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 4 g