Bursting with vibrant summer flavors, this Cherry Tomato Bacon and Basil Salad is the perfect harmony of freshness and indulgence. Juicy cherry tomatoes are paired with crispy, savory bacon and fragrant basil leaves, creating a beautiful blend of textures and flavors in every bite. A simple yet irresistible homemade dressing, combining extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey, ties it all together with a sweet and tangy flair. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy salad recipe is perfect for a light lunch, an elegant side dish, or a crowd-pleasing addition to any gathering. Gluten-free and full of wholesome ingredients, this dish celebrates the best of seasonal produce while elevating your table with its colorful presentation.
Wash and pat dry the cherry tomatoes. Slice them in half and place them in a large salad bowl.
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Allow the bacon to cool, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
Rinse the fresh basil leaves, pat them dry, and tear them into smaller pieces or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Add the basil to the salad bowl with the tomatoes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Add the crumbled bacon to the salad and lightly toss again to distribute it throughout.
Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
Calories |
716 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 58.5 g | 75% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.5 g | 57% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 2022 mg | 88% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30.1 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.9 g | 25% | |
| Total Sugars | 21.2 g | ||
| Protein | 21.5 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 102 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 1538 mg | 33% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.