Our beloved tomato salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that needs minimal prep and time. At its core, it's a testament to summer's bounty, celebrating the umami-rich tomato with a medley of fresh herbs and tangy acidity. You'll find no limp greens here, just the ripest tomatoes getting the spotlight they deserve.
The genesis of this tomato salad lies in the bustling markets of Provence, where we witnessed the locals' reverence for sun-ripened tomatoes and aromatic herbs. Inspired by their culinary wisdom, we set out to create a dish that captured the essence of this beloved ingredient. Through countless iterations and taste tests, we stumbled upon the harmonious balance of flavors and textures that defines our tomato salad today.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 pound ripe tomatoes, sliced
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, basil, parsley, chives, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
Toss to coat.
Serve immediately or chill for later.
Why It Works
By using ripe, flavorful tomatoes, we ensure a robust base for our salad.
The trinity of fresh basil, parsley, and chives provides a vibrant symphony of herbal notes, elevating the tomato's natural sweetness.
The tangy acidity of red wine vinegar cuts through the richness of the tomatoes and herbs, creating a refreshing contrast.
Dijon mustard adds a subtle depth and complexity, rounding out the overall flavor profile.
Using salt and pepper judiciously enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.