Summer Salad with Tomatoes

In the heart of summer, when gardens are bursting with vibrant colors and fresh produce, a simple yet refreshing dish can elevate your dining experience. The Garden Fresh Summer Tomato Salad is a celebration of the season's best offerings: heirloom tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, aromatic basil, and delightful mozzarella, all tossed together in a zesty dressing. This recipe not only showcases the flavors of summer but also promotes health and wellness with its nutritious ingredients. Bursting with freshness, this salad is perfect for everything from backyard barbecues to elegant dinner parties.

Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with a Garden Fresh Summer Tomato Salad that celebrates the best seasonal produce. Featuring heirloom tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella, this salad is a delightful combination of texture and taste. Perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing side dish, it highlights nutritious ingredients that support health and wellness. Discover preparation tips and ideas for customizing this dish to make it your own and savor the essence of summer in every bite.

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Ingredients

4 cups assorted heirloom tomatoes, chopped (varieties like Brandywine, Cherokee Purple, and Green Zebra)

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

1/4 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped heirloom tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss to distribute the vegetables evenly.

Add the Basil and Mozzarella: Fold in the torn basil leaves and halved mozzarella balls, being careful not to break apart the cheese.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Combine and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired. Enjoy this fresh and vibrant summer dish at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4