Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and sugar (if desired). The dressing should have a slight acidity and a pleasant sweetness that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
Serve the salad: Place the tomato pieces and onion rings in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the onion rings and mix well to ensure the tomatoes are evenly marinated.
Add the herbs: Roughly tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the salad. If desired, add fresh parsley or chives. Gently toss the salad again to ensure the herbs and dressing are evenly distributed.
Chill and serve: Let the tomato salad sit in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. The salad can be served immediately, but tastes even better if it sits for a while longer. Serving and Storage Tips: Serving: The tomato salad is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meat, fish, or as part of a buffet. It also goes well with bread or a hearty cheese.
Storage: The tomato salad should be eaten as fresh as possible, as the tomatoes lose water and become soft with prolonged storage. If there are any leftovers, you can refrigerate the salad for 1-2 days.
Variations:
Tomato Salad with Mozzarella: Add fresh mozzarella or burrata to give the salad a creamy texture. This is especially delicious when served as a main course.
With Feta: Instead of mozzarella, you can also use feta, which gives the salad a saltier and more robust flavor.
Tomato Salad with Cucumber: For an extra kick of freshness, add some cucumber slices. The tomato and cucumber salad is especially delicious on hot summer days.
Tomato Salad with Olives: If you like a Mediterranean twist, add some black or green olives. These pair wonderfully with the tomatoes and basil.
FAQ:
Can I use cherry tomatoes? Yes, cherry tomatoes are great for this salad. They are sweet and aromatic and add a beautiful color to the salad.
Can I prepare the salad in advance? Yes, the salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it is advisable to add the fresh herbs just before serving to prevent them from wilting.
Is the salad suitable for vegans? Yes, this recipe is vegan because no animal products are used. You can also omit the feta or mozzarella or use a plant-based alternative.
Can I make the salad with other types of vinegar? Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar, depending on your preference.
Conclusion: This refreshing German tomato salad is simple, healthy, and incredibly delicious. With just a few ingredients, you can conjure up a dish that’s perfect as a side dish or as a main course. It’s perfect for summer, but also works any time of year when you’re craving a light, fresh meal. Give it a try—this tomato salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
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