Tomatoes And Basil
A fresh and tangy tomato and basil salad featuring ripe tomatoes, green onions, and herbs, perfect for summer gatherings or light, flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice tomatoes into a shallow dish.
- Mix oil, vinegar, salt, basil, crushed garlic, green onion, and parsley together.
- Pour the dressing over the sliced tomatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using extra virgin olive oil and a high-quality vinegar. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be substituted, but use only 1/2 tablespoon as it's more concentrated. Feel free to add other herbs such as oregano or thyme for added depth. This dish can be enhanced by pairing it with bread like ciabatta or adding it to a Vermicelli Vinaigrette Salad for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
This tomatoes and basil dish makes a delightful starter or side salad. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, such as Low-Fat Lamb Chops With Tarragon-Tomato Sauce. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing Zucchini Dinner Salad for a complete Mediterranean meal. For an added crunch, top with toasted pine nuts or serve with crispy bread for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tomatoes and dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, allow the dish to come to room temperature before serving, as reheating may cause the tomatoes to become mushy. Fresh basil can be sprinkled on just before serving to refresh the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoes And Basil contains roughly 735 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (48% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1524mg per serving (66% 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 add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can enhance this recipe by adding cucumbers or bell peppers for additional texture and flavor. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they complement the tomatoes and fit well in the dressing.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While the tomatoes are best fresh, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just toss the dressing with the tomatoes right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
What type of vinegar works best for this recipe?
A good quality balsamic or red wine vinegar works best, providing a nice balance of acidity and sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using white wine vinegar.
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).