How to Make an Italian Salad with Tomatoes and Olives
Italian salad is a vibrant and healthy dish that captures the essence of fresh ingredients, making it a perfect choice for any meal. This delightful recipe features juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and a mix of aromatic herbs, providing a taste of the Mediterranean right in your kitchen. Below, we will guide you through the steps to create a quintessential Italian salad that is both simple and delicious.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 cups of ripe tomatoes (cherry or heirloom are great options)
- 1 cup of mixed olives (green and black, pitted)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow), chopped
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Italian salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by washing all your vegetables. Cut the tomatoes into halves or quarters, depending on their size. For cherry tomatoes, halving them is usually sufficient. If you're using heirloom tomatoes, be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Slice and Chop
Next, thinly slice the red onion and cucumber. Chop the bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Place all the cut vegetables into a large mixing bowl along with the tomatoes and olives.
Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs
Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the mixed vegetables. The fragrance of basil will enhance the flavor of your salad, making it more aromatic and vibrant.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste. This dressing is crucial as it elevates the freshness of the salad.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently until well combined. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes; you want to keep their shape while ensuring every piece is coated with the dressing.
Optional Additions
You can customize your Italian salad by adding ingredients like fresh mozzarella, artichoke hearts, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Final Thoughts
Your authentic Italian salad with tomatoes and olives is now ready to be served! This salad is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a light main course. Not only is it refreshing, but it also provides a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. Enjoy the flavors of Italy with each bite!