Oh, the simple joy of a truly spectacular tomato salad! There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about gathering the season’s best and letting their natural sweetness shine. This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a celebration of summer, a vibrant symphony of flavors that feels both comforting and incredibly refreshing. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause, appreciate the moment, and perhaps even dream of sun-drenched gardens.
I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, not always filled with the scent of rising bread, but often with the vibrant aroma of freshly picked tomatoes and basil from her small garden. She believed that the best food, sweet or savory, came from the heart and the freshest ingredients. This tomato salad recipe reminds me of those cherished afternoons, sharing simple, delicious meals that tasted like pure sunshine.
This recipe is beautifully straightforward, proving that magic happens with just a few quality components. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, adding a burst of freshness, or gracing your summer entertaining table. My top tip? Don’t skimp on the quality of your olive oil; it truly makes all the difference in bringing out the best in those gorgeous tomatoes.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
To craft this delightful tomato salad, you’ll be leaning on the stars of the summer garden: a medley of ripe heirloom and sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and fragrant fresh basil. I always say, the quality of your ingredients is your secret weapon, and with just a few simple pantry staples for our homemade vinaigrette, you’re ready to create something truly special. For the complete list and exact measurements, you’ll find everything in the recipe card below!
How to Make Tomato Salad
Creating this beautiful Tomato Salad is a breeze, perfect for those days when you crave freshness without fuss. You’ll start by whisking together a vibrant basil vinaigrette, allowing all those lovely flavors to meld beautifully. Then, it’s simply a matter of artfully arranging your colorful tomatoes and creamy burrata, drizzling with that exquisite dressing, and a sprinkle of flaky salt to finish. It’s a no-cook wonder that comes together in mere minutes, promising a burst of summer in every bite.
Summer’s Best Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, finely chopped basil, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the vinaigrette is well emulsified. Set aside.
- On a large serving platter or in a shallow bowl, artfully arrange the sliced heirloom tomatoes and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Gently tear or slice the burrata cheese and nestle pieces among the tomatoes.
- Scatter the very thinly sliced red onion over the tomatoes and burrata.
- Drizzle the prepared basil vinaigrette generously over the entire salad.
- Sprinkle with the torn or chopped fresh basil leaves, flaky sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This Tomato Salad
Making the perfect Tomato Salad is all about those little touches that elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up over the years to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor and texture.
My Secret Trick: Always allow your tomatoes to come to room temperature before assembling the salad. Chilled tomatoes can lose some of their vibrant flavor. Letting them warm up slightly intensifies their natural sweetness, making your Tomato Salad taste absolutely divine.
When choosing your burrata, look for a fresh, creamy ball that feels soft to the touch. I find that gently tearing the burrata instead of slicing it creates lovely, rustic pockets for the vinaigrette to nestle into.
For that extra touch of freshness, I always recommend using a good quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh basil leaves. The brighter the basil, the more aromatic your vinaigrette will be, truly enhancing the natural flavors of this wonderful tomato salad.
And don’t forget the seasoning! A generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper right before serving truly brings out the best in the tomatoes and the rich burrata. It’s a simple step, but one that I find makes all the difference.
Fun Variations for Tomato Salad
While this classic Tomato Salad with a basil vinaigrette is perfection, sometimes it’s fun to explore different flavors and textures! My kitchen is all about playful experimentation, and this salad is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ideas that my friends and family absolutely adore.
For a little extra tang, a friend of mine always asks me to add a handful of pitted Kalamata olives. They offer a wonderful briny contrast to the sweet tomatoes and creamy burrata in this lovely tomato salad.
If you’re looking for a heartier option, try adding grilled chicken or some toasted crusty bread to the mix. It transforms it into a complete meal, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. I find a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts also adds a fantastic crunch!
Another delightful twist is to incorporate different herbs. While basil is king here, I’ve had great success with a touch of fresh oregano or even some finely chopped chives. They add subtle nuances that can completely change the character of your tomato salad.
What to Serve With Tomato Salad
This vibrant Tomato Salad is incredibly versatile, making it the perfect companion to a wide array of dishes. Its fresh, bright flavors make it a wonderful palate cleanser and a refreshing counterpoint to richer meals, much like a good sorbet might prelude a decadent cake.
I love serving this tomato salad alongside grilled fish or chicken, especially on a warm summer evening. The light, tangy vinaigrette and juicy tomatoes really complement the smoky flavors of the grill. It’s a pairing that feels effortlessly elegant and incredibly satisfying.
It’s also wonderful simply scooped up with a slice of crusty artisan bread. My mom always keeps a baguette on hand for impromptu gatherings, and this salad instantly elevates a simple bread plate into something special. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious basil vinaigrette.
For a delightful light lunch, I often pair this tomato salad with a simple quiche or even just a hard-boiled egg. It provides that essential freshness that makes the meal feel balanced and truly satisfying without being heavy.
How to Store Tomato Salad
To keep your delicious Tomato Salad tasting its best, proper storage is key, ensuring every leftover bite is as delightful as the first. This fresh dish is really at its peak when enjoyed right after assembly, as the tomatoes and burrata are at their freshest and the vinaigrette hasn’t softened them too much.
If you happen to have leftovers, I recommend storing any remaining Tomato Salad components separately if possible. Keep the dressed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. I find that storing the burrata separately and adding it just before serving helps maintain its beautiful creamy texture.
When serving leftovers, I like to bring the salad back to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying. A light drizzle of fresh olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil can really revitalize a stored Tomato Salad, bringing back that just-made vibrancy. Avoid freezing this salad, as the fresh tomatoes and burrata won’t hold up well to thawing.
Nutritional Benefits
This delightful Tomato Salad isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s also packed with wholesome goodness. Bursting with vitamins from the vibrant heirloom and cherry tomatoes, healthy fats from the extra virgin olive oil, and protein from the creamy burrata, it’s a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It beautifully marries indulgence with the simple, fresh ingredients that Sara always champions.
FAQs
What kind of tomatoes are best for this salad?
For the best Tomato Salad, I recommend using a mix of ripe heirloom tomatoes for their varied colors and deep flavors, and sweet cherry or grape tomatoes for bursts of sweetness. The fresher, the better!
Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the basil vinaigrette up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk or shake before drizzling it over your Tomato Salad.
What if I can’t find burrata cheese?
If burrata isn’t available, fresh mozzarella balls are a wonderful substitute for this Tomato Salad. While they won’t have the same creamy interior, they still offer a lovely mild flavor and soft texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Of course! Feel free to customize your Tomato Salad. Sliced cucumber, bell peppers, or even a few tender greens like arugula can be lovely additions, adding more texture and nutrients.
Conclusion
There you have it, a wonderfully simple yet utterly delicious tomato salad that embodies the very essence of summer. It’s a testament to the magic that happens when fresh, quality ingredients come together with a little love and care. Just like those cherished childhood memories in my grandmother’s kitchen, this recipe is designed to bring joy, freshness, and connection to your table. I truly hope this recipe inspires you to embrace the season’s bounty and create your own sweet (or in this case, wonderfully savory) memories, one delightful bite at a time. Happy cooking, my dear friends!