Sliced Tomatoes With Basil Vinaigrette
A fresh and vibrant tomato salad with basil vinaigrette, perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches, highlighting the bright flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the romaine lettuce using light pressure and arrange on a large platter.
- Peel the garlic and cut into chunks.
- Cut the Parmesan cheese into chunks.
- Chop the fresh parsley and basil.
- Slice the red onion thinly.
- Halve the tomatoes.
- Prepare the basil vinaigrette by blending garlic, Parmesan, parsley, basil, sugar, salt, fresh ground pepper, safflower oil, and sherry.
- Arrange sliced tomatoes and red onions on the platter with the lettuce.
- Drizzle the basil vinaigrette over the salad and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother vinaigrette, blend the ingredients longer until fully emulsified. If you don't have safflower oil, light olive oil or avocado oil can be good substitutes. Fresh basil is key, but if unavailable, try using a smaller amount of dried basil. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dressing a subtle kick that complements the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside hearty Mediterranean recipes like Jackie'S Ratatouille. You can also add crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Serve chilled to enhance the freshness of the ingredients.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover basil vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The sliced tomatoes and lettuce are best enjoyed fresh; however, you can store them separately in the fridge for up to two days. To refresh the salad, add a drizzle of fresh vinaigrette just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sliced Tomatoes With Basil Vinaigrette contains roughly 241 calories, with 18g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (176% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (86% of the Daily Value), and calcium (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1952mg per serving (85% 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 prepare the basil vinaigrette in advance?
Yes, the basil vinaigrette can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making it even tastier when served.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to customize the salad by adding other fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes. Avocado would also be a great addition for creaminess. Just ensure that the flavors complement the vinaigrette, keeping it fresh and vibrant.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make this salad more filling, consider adding protein sources like grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or even quinoa. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also make it a satisfying main course. You can also serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
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).