Heirloom Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil and Balsamic Glaze
This is a decidedly fancy salad but you don't need to be a fancy person to make it. The instructions are simple and call for ingredients that are easy to find. Goat cheese, some ripe tomatoes, basil, perhaps some capers, a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar with a little touch of honey. We've eaten this salad for breakfast, lunch, and even as a light dinner. It's that good.
Once upon a time, in a faraway land, there lived a humble peasant who loved nothing more than tending to his garden. Among his prized possessions were his heirloom tomato plants, which bore the most beautiful and flavorful tomatoes he had ever seen. One day, while strolling through the local market, the peasant came across a stall selling the most delicious goat cheese he had ever tasted. Inspired, he decided to combine his tomatoes with the cheese, along with some fresh basil and a simple balsamic vinaigrette. The result was a salad that was so delicious, it would change his life forever.
Heirloom Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil and Balsamic Glaze Heirloom Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil and Balsamic Glaze Heirloom Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil and Balsamic Glaze Heirloom Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil and Balsamic Glaze
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 5 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • Heirloom tomatoes (various colors and shapes)
  • Goat cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Olive oil
  • Honey (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Capers (optional)
Instructions
  1. Slice the tomatoes into wedges or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Crumble the goat cheese over the tomatoes.
  3. Roughly chop the basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad.
  6. Garnish with capers, if desired.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
  8. For the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, heat the balsamic vinegar over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the vinegar has thickened and reduced by about half.
Why It Works
  • The combination of sweet tomatoes, tangy goat cheese, and aromatic basil is a classic for a reason.
  • The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances out the richness of the cheese.
  • The capers add a briny, salty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.