Basil And Tomato Salad
A fresh and vibrant basil and tomato salad featuring marinated quartered tomatoes in olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, perfect for light summer meals or as a side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate the quartered tomatoes in a mixture of 1 tablespoon chopped basil, olive oil, wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper for 4 hours.
- Stir the tomatoes once or twice during marination and baste with the marinade.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, allow the tomatoes to marinate overnight. You can substitute balsamic vinegar for the wine vinegar for a sweeter note. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use less as it's more concentrated. Adding a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing their flavor in this refreshing salad.
Serving Suggestions
This basil and tomato salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making it a perfect summer side dish. Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a vibrant presentation. For a heartier meal, consider adding quinoa or serving alongside a barley salad with corn and peppers. A slice of crusty bread complements this dish well, perfect for soaking up the delicious marinade.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tomatoes may become softer, but the flavors will still be delicious. To refresh the salad, simply toss it with additional greens and a splash of olive oil before serving. Avoid reheating, as this salad is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil And Tomato Salad contains roughly 128 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 596mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of larger tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes will add a burst of sweetness and are perfect for this salad. Simply halve them before marinating. Keep in mind that they may require less marination time, so check for flavor after about 2 hours.
What can I do if I don't have fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn't available, you can use dried basil instead. Remember to use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent. Alternatively, consider using other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. However, it's best to keep the tomatoes and greens separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting. Assemble just before eating for the freshest taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).