Sliced Tomatoes With Fresh Basil
A fresh, flavorful tomato and basil salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, red onions, olive oil, and vinegar, perfect for light, summery meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange the tomato slices neatly on a serving platter.
- Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Add the coarsely chopped red onions and basil over the tomatoes.
- Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes for a variety of colors and tastes. If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use less as it's more potent. To enhance the dish, try adding some crumbled feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference for a more personalized taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a light appetizer or side salad. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as Broiled Mackerel, or can be served alongside pasta dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or as part of a Mediterranean recipes spread, including a refreshing Chickpeas Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, avoid stacking the tomatoes too much. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, just until warmed through, to prevent the tomatoes from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sliced Tomatoes With Fresh Basil contains roughly 156 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 952mg per serving (41% 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 this dish in advance?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can slice the tomatoes and prepare the onion and basil mixture ahead of time. Just layer the ingredients and dress them just before serving to keep the tomatoes firm and flavorful.
What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
If you don't have red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar can be a great alternative, adding a slightly different sweetness. Apple cider vinegar can also work, but it will impart a different flavor profile to the dish.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan, making it a great option for those following a vegan diet. It's fresh, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, perfect for a light meal or as part of a larger spread.
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).