Tomato salad with red onion and herbs

Tomato salad with red onion and herbs - an explosion of fresh flavors

When it comes to salads, few can rival the freshness and taste of a tomato salad with red onion and herbs. This simple and quick recipe not only delights the taste buds but also adds a splash of color to your plate. It is perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish for a festive meal.

Before we start cooking, let's take a brief look at the history of this salad. Originating from the culinary traditions of various cultures, tomato salad is a popular choice due to its versatility and accessible ingredients. Tomatoes, a symbol of summer, are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and the combination with red onion and herbs adds not only flavor but also nutritional benefits.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g ripe and juicy tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, but recommended to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1 red onion (choose a fresh and firm one)
- Fresh herbs: tarragon, basil, parsley, and celery (or any other herbs you prefer)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the dressing:
- 2-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (choose a quality oil, it makes a difference)
- 2 tablespoons fruit or red wine vinegar (balsamic vinegar adds a sweet note)

Step by step:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the tomatoes well under cold running water. Choose tomatoes of different colors and shapes for a more attractive appearance. Cut them into thin slices, about 0.5 cm thick, ensuring each slice is uniform. Arrange the tomato slices on a platter, slightly overlapping them to cover the entire dish.

2. Red onion: Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. If you prefer a milder taste, you can soak it in cold water for a few minutes, then drain it. Place the onion slices over the tomatoes, creating a new colorful layer.

3. Fresh herbs: Wash the herbs and chop them finely. Basil and tarragon add a fresh aroma, while parsley and celery provide a pleasant contrast. Sprinkle the chopped herbs evenly over the salad.

4. Preparing the dressing: In a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, vinegar, and, if desired, the tablespoon of sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Close the lid and shake the jar vigorously until the ingredients emulsify.

5. Finishing the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Gently mix the salad with a spatula or spoon to combine all the ingredients.

6. Refrigeration: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. This step allows the flavors to blend and intensify.

7. Serving: About 5 minutes before serving, remove the salad from the refrigerator to bring it to room temperature. This will enhance the flavors and make the salad even more appetizing.

Serving suggestions:
This tomato salad with red onion and herbs is perfect alongside grilled meats, fish, or even as a side dish for pasta dishes. You can pair it with fresh focaccia or a crunchy baguette. It also pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, which contribute to heart health. Red onion is an excellent source of flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation. The herbs not only add flavors but are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned tomatoes? While not recommended, if you don't have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can use canned tomatoes, but the taste won't be as fresh.
- Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! You can include feta cheese or mozzarella for a richer version. Olives or avocado can also add an interesting note.
- How can I store the salad? It is best to consume the salad on the day you prepare it to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but the taste will be better if consumed fresh.

This tomato salad with red onion and herbs is not just a recipe, but a colorful culinary experience full of textures and flavors. Try it and let yourself be carried away by the tastes of summer!