Magic Tomato Salad – The Most Delicious Appetizer!
This Magic Tomato Salad is a fresh and tangy appetizer, bursting with vibrant flavors. The combination of ripe tomatoes, olive oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs creates a simple yet incredibly tasty salad. Perfect for summer meals or as a side dish with your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
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800-900 grams of tomatoes, sliced
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50 ml olive oil
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25 ml 9% vinegar
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30 ml water
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1-2 green onions, chopped (optional, for extra crunch)
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2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or dill, chopped
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: garlic or chili flakes for an added kick
Instructions:
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Prepare the Tomatoes:
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Wash the tomatoes and slice them into thick rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. Arrange them on a serving plate or in a bowl.
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Make the Dressing:
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In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, vinegar, and water. Stir or shake well until the dressing is well-mixed. Add salt and black pepper to taste. If you prefer more acidity, adjust the vinegar quantity to suit your taste.
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Assemble the Salad:
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Pour the dressing over the sliced tomatoes. Gently toss the salad to coat the tomatoes evenly.
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Add Herbs:
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Sprinkle the chopped green onions (if using) and fresh cilantro or dill over the tomatoes. For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
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Serve:
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Allow the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature as an appetizer or side dish.
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Notes:
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Fresh Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for different flavors.
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Vinegar: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a lower percentage vinegar or add a bit more water to balance the acidity.
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Add-ins: You can add cucumber slices, olives, or feta cheese for extra texture and flavor.
Tips:
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Resting the Salad: Letting the salad sit for 10-15 minutes after dressing allows the tomatoes to absorb the flavors better.
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Tossing: Gently toss the salad to avoid breaking the tomato slices. The goal is to coat the tomatoes with the dressing, not mash them.
Servings:
This recipe serves 4-6 people as an appetizer or side dish.
Nutritional Info (Approximate per serving):
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Calories: 120
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Carbs: 6g
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Protein: 2g
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Fat: 10g (mostly from olive oil)
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 3g (naturally from tomatoes)
Benefits:
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Rich in Vitamins: Tomatoes are high in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, supporting heart health and skin health.
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Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats that are good for cardiovascular health.
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Low in Calories: This salad is light and refreshing, making it a great option for weight management.
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Anti-inflammatory: Fresh herbs like cilantro and dill have anti-inflammatory properties that help support overall wellness.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use any type of vinegar?
A: While 9% vinegar is typical, you can use other types of vinegar like balsamic, apple cider, or red wine vinegar for different flavor profiles.
Q: How long can I store this salad?
A: This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. The tomatoes may release more juice the longer it sits, but the flavor will still be good.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
A: Yes! You can add cucumbers, bell peppers, or even olives for extra texture and flavor.