Tomato salad with stuffed olives and basil

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!