Imagine a dish so simple yet so incredibly delicious that it transports you straight to the sun-drenched gardens of Italy with just one bite. This Fresh Basil and Tomato Salad is not just a recipe; it's a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil. Perfect for those lazy summer days or as a quick, elegant side dish that will impress even the most discerning food lovers, this recipe is about to become your new go-to summer sensation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Set aside.
- Next, take the ripe tomatoes and wash them thoroughly. Slice each tomato into even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Arrange the sliced tomatoes on a large serving platter or individual plates, overlapping them slightly for an appealing presentation.
- Once the tomatoes are arranged, take the fresh basil leaves and scatter them generously over the sliced tomatoes. You can either leave the basil leaves whole or tear them into smaller pieces for a more rustic look.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture together until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
- Drizzle the olive oil mixture evenly over the tomatoes and basil. Be sure to cover all the slices to enhance the flavor of the salad.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the taste and aroma of the fresh ingredients.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the olive oil dressing. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Choose Tomatoes Wisely: Select ripe, in-season tomatoes for the most intense flavor. Look for tomatoes that are firm but yield slightly when gently pressed.
- Basil Handling: For the most fragrant basil, tear the leaves just before serving to release their essential oils and maximize flavor.
- Olive Oil Matters: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to elevate the overall taste of the salad.
- Seasoning Secrets: Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes after dressing to allow the flavors to meld together. This short resting time can dramatically improve the taste.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra gourmet touch, sprinkle some fresh mozzarella or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.
- Temperature Tip: Serve at room temperature to bring out the full depth of flavors in the tomatoes and basil.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
