Are you ready to elevate your summer dining experience with a dish that bursts with flavor and freshness? Look no further than John Villa's Beefsteak Tomato Salad! This vibrant, colorful salad showcases the juicy goodness of ripe beefsteak tomatoes, perfectly complemented by the sharpness of red onions and the aromatic touch of fresh basil. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 10 minutes of your time, you can create a stunning dish that will impress your family and friends. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to create a salad that’s not just a side but a sensational centerpiece!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large beefsteak tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the beefsteak tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the tomatoes into even, approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the tomato slices on a large serving platter.
- Peel the red onion and use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice it very thinly, creating delicate, translucent rings.
- Gently scatter the thinly sliced red onions over the tomato slices, distributing them evenly across the platter.
- Rinse the fresh basil leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel. Chop the basil leaves into small, fragrant pieces.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the tomatoes and onions, allowing the herb's aroma to enhance the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and olive oil to create a simple vinaigrette.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the tomato, onion, and basil arrangement.
- Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
- Let the salad rest for 5 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: For the best flavor, select ripe beefsteak tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a rich, deep color. The fresher the tomatoes, the better your salad will taste!
- Slice Evenly: When slicing the tomatoes, aim for even thickness (about 1/4 inch) to ensure a consistent texture and presentation. A sharp knife or a serrated knife works best for clean cuts.
- Enhance the Flavor: Letting the salad rest for 5 minutes after seasoning allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This step is crucial for a more harmonious taste.
- Experiment with Herbs: While fresh basil is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or mint for a unique twist.
- Make it Your Own: Add additional ingredients like mozzarella cheese or avocado for extra creaminess, or a sprinkle of feta for a tangy kick. Customize the salad to suit your taste!
- Presentation Matters: Arrange the tomato and onion slices in a circular pattern on a large platter for an appealing presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
