Tomato salad with olives

Spell for a glass of wine – A vibrant and flavorful salad

Total time: 20 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Serving time: immediately
Number of servings: 2

It’s a beautiful evening, and pleasant music plays in the background. What could be more relaxing than indulging in a simple yet sophisticated salad that perfectly complements a glass of wine? This tomato salad with olives, parmesan, and almonds is not just a delicious choice but also a true feast for the senses. With each ingredient, you will experience an explosion of flavors and textures that will transport you to a world of culinary joy.

Necessary ingredients

- 4 cherry tomatoes (preferably ripe and juicy)
- A handful of assorted olives (black and green, Kalamata olives are an excellent choice)
- 50 g parmesan (freshly grated)
- 30 g almonds (raw, coarsely chopped)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil (for an intense and authentic taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparing the salad

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the cherry tomatoes under a stream of cold water. Cut them into quarters and place them in a large bowl. Cherry tomatoes, due to their sweetness and juiciness, are ideal for this salad, providing a perfect contrast to the other ingredients.

2. Add the olives: Add the assorted olives, halved or left whole, depending on your preference. Olives not only add a salty and rich flavor but also a crunchy texture that enhances every bite.

3. Incorporate the parmesan: Sprinkle the grated parmesan over the tomato and olive mixture. The parmesan, with its intense and umami flavor, will perfectly complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and the salty taste of the olives.

4. Add the almonds: Use the chopped almonds to add a crunch. They not only improve the texture of the salad but also provide beneficial nutritional value, rich in proteins and healthy fats.

5. Season with basil: Finely chop the fresh basil leaves and add them to the bowl. The fresh aroma of basil will give a fresh air and irresistible taste to your salad.

6. Drizzle with olive oil: Don’t forget to drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil. This will tie all the ingredients together and add a note of richness. You can adjust the amount to your liking, but don’t overdo it to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

7. Season: Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix the ingredients to combine, but be careful not to crush the tomatoes.

Serving

To complement this delicious salad, serve it alongside toasted breadsticks. This will provide a crunchy contrast and allow guests to enjoy the intense flavors of the salad. A glass of white or rosé wine will make the entire experience unforgettable.

A brief history of the salad

This salad is inspired by Mediterranean culinary traditions, where fresh, quality ingredients are highlighted. It is a simple yet sophisticated recipe that illustrates the beauty of cooking with natural ingredients. Over time, salads have been a way to combine various flavors and textures, becoming an essential part of the meal, whether it’s a light lunch or an elegant dinner.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is not only tasty but also extremely healthy. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, olives provide healthy fats for the heart, and almonds are packed with proteins and fiber. Basil adds not only flavor but also anti-inflammatory properties.

Tips and variations

- If you want to bring a touch of originality, you can add a few slices of avocado or cubes of feta cheese.
- Another interesting variation would be to use sun-dried tomatoes, which will intensify the salad’s flavor.
- If you like a bit of spice, you can add chili flakes or a few drops of balsamic vinegar.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry?
Sure! Regular tomatoes can be used, but make sure they are ripe and juicy.

- What else can I add?
You can experiment with various vegetables, such as cucumbers or peppers, for an even more colorful salad.

- Is this recipe vegan?
You can make a vegan version by omitting the parmesan or using a plant-based substitute.

Conclusion

This tomato salad with olives, parmesan, and almonds is perfect for warm summer days or as an appetizer for a special dinner. Easy to prepare and full of flavors, it will surely become one of your favorite recipes. Don’t forget to enjoy every bite, accompanied by a glass of wine and your favorite music!