Tomato salad with stuffed olives and basil

Name: Tomato salad with stuffed olives and basil - Alexandra H.
Ingredients: 1 kg tomatoes; 300 g green olives stuffed with almonds; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 3 tablespoons olive oil infused with oregano; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; salt

Savory - Tomato salad with stuffed olives and basil by Alexandra H. - Recipia

Fresh tomato salad with stuffed olives and basil What could be more comforting than a vibrant salad, full of flavors and colors, that reminds you of warm summer days? This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for any occasion - a quick breakfast, a light lunch, or a savory dinner. Moreover, it's an excellent way to use the fresh ingredients you have on hand. Preparation time: 15 minutes Total time: 15 minutes Servings: 4 Ingredients: - 1 kg large, meaty tomatoes (ideally from the garden) - 300 g green olives stuffed with almonds - 3 tablespoons freshly chopped green basil - 3 tablespoons olive oil infused with oregano - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar - salt, to taste A bit of history: Salads have an ancient tradition, documented since antiquity, being consumed by various civilizations as a way to combine fresh vegetables with flavored oils and vinegars. This simple tomato salad with stuffed olives is a modern reinterpretation of these classic recipes, bringing a touch of creativity and flavor to every plate. Step-by-step preparation: 1. Preparing the ingredients: - Start by washing the tomatoes well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or pesticides. Fresh, meaty tomatoes will add a rich flavor to your salad. - Cut the tomatoes into thick slices, about 1-2 cm, to preserve their texture and juiciness. If you're using garden tomatoes, the flavor will be even more intense. 2. The olives: - Drain the stuffed olives well from the brine. They add a salty taste and a crunchy texture to your salad. If you prefer, you can use black olives for a more intense flavor. 3. Mixing the ingredients: - In a large bowl, combine the tomato slices with the drained olives. Add the freshly chopped basil, which will bring an aromatic and vibrant note to your salad. - Before adding the oil and vinegar, I recommend tasting the mixture to ensure you like the balance of flavors. 4. Seasoning: - Drizzle the salad with the olive oil infused with oregano. This oil will add an extra layer of flavor, but you can also use plain olive oil if you prefer. - Add the balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy taste that will perfectly complement the tomatoes and olives. - Sprinkle salt to taste. Be careful not to overdo it, as the olives are already salty. 5. Final mixing: - Use a spatula or a large spoon to gently mix the ingredients, so the tomatoes don’t get crushed. You want to maintain their structure and juiciness. 6. Serving: - Serve the salad immediately, alongside slices of toasted bread rubbed with garlic. This combination will turn every bite into an explosion of flavors. Personal suggestion: For an extra burst of flavor, you can add some slices of feta cheese on top of the salad or try replacing the olives with avocado for a creamier version. Additionally, adding some toasted pine nuts can provide an interesting crunchy texture. Nutritional benefits: This salad is a healthy choice, packed with vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while basil offers anti-inflammatory properties. Olives are rich in healthy fats and help maintain cardiovascular health. It is a low-calorie recipe, with a serving having about 150-200 calories. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of large tomatoes? - Of course! Cherry tomatoes will add a playful look, and their sweetness enhances the salad's flavor. 2. How can I store the salad for the next day? - It is recommended not to leave the salad in the fridge, as the tomatoes can become mushy. Prepare it fresh before serving! 3. What drinks pair well with this salad? - A dry white wine or a citrus cocktail would perfectly complement the flavors of your salad. 4. Can I add other vegetables? - Certainly! Cucumbers, bell peppers, or even red onion can add extra texture and flavor. In the end, this tomato salad with stuffed olives and basil is not just a simple recipe, but also a way to bring joy and health to your table. I encourage you to try it and share the results with friends and family. Enjoy your meal!

Tomato salad with stuffed olives and basil

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