Magic Tomato Salad – The Most Delicious Appetizer!
This Magic Tomato Salad is the perfect appetizer to start any meal. With its vibrant flavors and refreshing ingredients, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. The combination of juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a tangy dressing makes it an unforgettable dish. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and requires just a handful of ingredients.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Refrigeration Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including refrigeration)
Servings:
- 4-6 servings
ingredients:
- 800-900 grams of tomatoes (around 5-6 medium-sized tomatoes)
- 50 ml olive oil
- 25 ml 9% vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 30 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 3 teaspoons sugar
- 1 bell pepper (any color, finely chopped)
- 1/2 chili pepper (seeds removed, finely chopped for a mild heat)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- A bunch of fresh dill (chopped)
- A bunch of fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions:
Step 1: Slice the Tomatoes
- Begin by slicing the tomatoes into thin rounds (about 1/4 inch thick).
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes on a serving platter or in a large shallow dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 50 ml olive oil
- 25 ml vinegar (9% or apple cider vinegar works well)
- 30 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 teaspoons sugar
- Whisk these ingredients together until the sugar and salt are dissolved and the dressing is well combined.
Step 3: Add the Flavorful Components
- Finely chop:
- 1 bell pepper (sweet or mild variety)
- 1/2 chili pepper (adjust based on desired heat level)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- Add these chopped ingredients to the prepared dressing mixture and stir to combine. The pepper and garlic will infuse the dressing with an extra punch of flavor.
Step 4: Dress the Tomatoes
- Pour the prepared dressing mixture over the sliced tomatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated with the flavorful liquid.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle the chopped dill and parsley generously over the top of the tomatoes. These fresh herbs will add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
Step 6: Let the Salad Marinate
- Refrigerate the salad for 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the tomatoes to soak up the dressing. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will become.
Step 7: Serve
- After marinating, serve the Magic Tomato Salad chilled as a refreshing and tangy appetizer to complement your meal.
Tips:
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier version, you can add more chili pepper or even a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Use Heirloom Tomatoes: For extra flavor and color, try using heirloom or cherry tomatoes, which offer a range of tastes and textures.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare this salad a few hours in advance to let the flavors fully develop, making it the perfect dish for meal prep or gatherings.
Health Benefits:
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, tomatoes help support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote glowing skin.
- Olive Oil: A healthy fat source that is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, garlic helps with digestion and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Herbs: Dill and parsley are both rich in vitamins and antioxidants that support digestive health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, this salad comes together in minutes.
- Vibrant Flavors: The tangy dressing, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables create a balanced and flavorful appetizer.
- Refreshing: Perfect for warm weather or as a side dish to complement heavier meals, this salad is light yet satisfying.
Enjoy your Magic Tomato Salad as a delicious and refreshing start to any meal. It’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!