Cherry Tomato Salad(Serves 6. Preparation Time: 20 Minutes.)
A fresh and flavorful cherry tomato salad with crispy bacon, fresh basil, and chives, perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches with a burst of tangy and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and stem the cherry tomatoes and dry them completely.
- Cook the bacon slices until very crisp, then drain thoroughly on paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, tarragon vinegar, olive oil, salt, and chopped basil to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and crumble the cooked bacon over the top.
- Gently stir to coat the tomatoes with the dressing.
- Serve the salad on romaine lettuce leaves, sprinkled with chopped chives.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding some crumbled feta or goat cheese to the salad. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used as a substitute for fresh bacon. Fresh herbs can be swapped based on availability; parsley or dill could work well in place of basil. Always taste the dressing before adding more salt, as the bacon can add a salty component.
Serving Suggestions
This refreshing Cherry Tomato Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light summer meal. Consider serving it alongside Mission Baked Beans for a delightful barbecue spread. It also makes a great appetizer at gatherings; serve it with crusty bread or as a topping for bruschetta for a flavorful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you expect to have leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting. When ready to enjoy, gently toss the salad to redistribute the dressing, and if needed, add a splash of olive oil to revive the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Tomato Salad(Serves 6. Preparation Time: 20 Minutes.) contains roughly 169 calories, with 5g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1365mg per serving (59% 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 other types of tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, you can use halved grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes, but be cautious with moisture. Cherry tomatoes provide a sweet burst, so if using larger varieties, consider draining excess juice to maintain the salad's texture.
Is there a vegan alternative for this salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or an avocado-based dressing for creaminess. Replace the bacon with crispy tempeh or coconut bacon for a savory crunch, maintaining the salad's delicious flavor without animal products.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
To prepare this salad in advance, wash and cut the tomatoes, and store them in the fridge. Prepare the dressing separately and combine just before serving. This ensures the flavors remain fresh and the salad retains its crispness, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep.
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).