Bright, vibrant, and bursting with fresh flavors, this Tomato Salad with Fresh Basil Dressing is the ultimate celebration of summer’s finest ingredients. Juicy heirloom or cherry tomatoes are paired with creamy fresh mozzarella (optional) and drizzled with a bold, herbaceous basil dressing made from fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey for balance. The salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal quick side dish or light appetizer. Enhance the presentation with an optional drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet finish. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or as a refreshing dish alongside grilled meats, this tomato salad is as beautiful as it is delicious.
1. Wash and dry the tomatoes. For heirloom tomatoes, cut them into wedges. For cherry tomatoes, slice them in half. Place the prepared tomatoes in a large serving bowl.
2. If using fresh mozzarella, cut it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic clove, salt, and black pepper. Blend until the dressing is smooth and the basil is fully incorporated.
4. Pour the fresh basil dressing evenly over the tomatoes and mozzarella in the serving bowl. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or pepper.
6. If desired, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the salad for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Serve immediately as a side dish or light appetizer. Enjoy!
Calories |
1442 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 106.7 g | 137% | |
| Saturated Fat | 40.7 g | 204% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 162 mg | 54% | |
| Sodium | 2667 mg | 116% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 69.4 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.4 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 51.3 g | ||
| Protein | 58.3 g | 117% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1355 mg | 104% | |
| Iron | 5.7 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 2581 mg | 55% | |
*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.