Celebrate the vibrant flavors of summer with this Tomato Salad Insalata Pomodoro, a classic Italian dish that showcases ripe, juicy tomatoes at their finest. Featuring a medley of heirloom or cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced red onion, and a simple yet exquisite dressing of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this recipe is a true testament to the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Perfectly seasoned with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, this salad captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in every bite. Add chunks of creamy mozzarella for an optional touch of indulgence. Ready in just 15 minutes, this light and refreshing salad is ideal as a side dish, appetizer, or even a quick snack. Serve immediately or let it marinate slightly to intensify the flavorsβeither way, it's a simple, wholesome delight that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, crusty bread, or your favorite pasta dishes.
1. Wash and dry the tomatoes thoroughly. If using larger heirloom tomatoes, cut them into bite-sized wedges. If using cherry tomatoes, cut them in halves or quarters, depending on their size.
2. Peel the red onion and thinly slice it into half-moons. Soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow their sharpness, then drain and pat dry.
3. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces by hand. Avoid cutting them with a knife, as this can bruise the leaves and diminish their flavor.
4. In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, red onion slices, and basil leaves.
5. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Gently toss the salad with clean hands or salad tongs to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
7. If adding mozzarella, slice it into chunks or tear it into smaller pieces and scatter it over the salad.
8. Serve immediately as a side dish or light appetizer. For extra flavor, allow the salad to marinate for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Calories |
797 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 64.6 g | 83% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.4 g | 97% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 79 mg | 26% | |
| Sodium | 1840 mg | 80% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.4 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.5 g | 27% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.2 g | ||
| Protein | 27.0 g | 54% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 594 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 1414 mg | 30% | |
*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.