Tomato Basil Salad Recipe
This vibrant Tomato Basil Salad combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and shallots with a simple balsamic-and-olive-oil dressing. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a fresh, colourful, and delicious Salad Recipe that makes the perfect side dish for any meal.
Equipment
- 1 Large Serving Bowl –
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Salad Servers:
Ingredients
- 900 g cherry tomatoes
- 100 g shallots
- 300 g bocconcini
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 45 ml balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Tomatoes
- Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly.
- Halve the tomatoes and transfer them to a large serving bowl.
- If using larger tomatoes, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare The Shallots
- Peel and trim the shallots.
- Slice them very thinly.
- Add them to the tomatoes and gently mix.
Step 3: Add The Mozzarella
- Drain the bocconcini thoroughly.
- Add the mozzarella balls to the bowl.
- If using larger mozzarella, cut or tear it into bite-sized pieces.
- Gently fold it through the tomatoes and shallots.
Step 4: Prepare The Basil
- Wash and dry the basil leaves.
- Stack and roll the leaves tightly, then slice them into thin ribbons.
- Add half of the basil to the salad and reserve the rest for finishing.
Step 5: Make The Dressing
- Add the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to a small mixing bowl.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Whisk until well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Dress The Salad
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Gently toss with salad servers until everything is lightly coated.
- Avoid vigorous mixing to prevent crushing the tomatoes or mozzarella.
Step 7: Finish And Serve
- Sprinkle the remaining basil over the salad.
- Give it one final gentle fold if needed.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavour and texture.
Notes
- 🍅 Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the sweetest flavour, juiciest texture, and brightest colour.
- 🌿 Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves give the salad its fragrant aroma and vibrant herbal flavour.
- 🧀 Use Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini or fresh mozzarella adds a soft, creamy contrast to the juicy tomatoes.
- 🫒 Use Quality Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil makes the simple dressing richer and more flavourful.
- 🍇 Balance the Dressing: Taste the balsamic dressing before tossing and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- 🥗 Toss Gently: Fold the ingredients carefully to avoid crushing the tomatoes or breaking the mozzarella.
- ⏰ Serve Fresh: For the best texture and flavour, dress the Tomato Basil Salad shortly before serving.