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American Tomato Salad

Serves 4 to 6 Salad vegetarian, Salads

American Tomato Salad

American Tomato Salad is a staple at summer picnics and family gatherings, where fresh produce takes center stage. Embracing the essence of home cooking, this salad is a nod to the way American families effortlessly combine simple, fresh ingredients to create something greater than the sum of its parts. It's a dish that finds its place on tables across the country, from backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners.

The salad is a vibrant medley of sun-ripened tomatoes and crisp cucumber, all lightly dressed in olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. A sprinkle of fine sea salt and a scattering of fresh herbs bring everything together, ensuring each bite is a refreshing burst of flavor. It's a dish that celebrates honest ingredients, allowing their natural qualities to shine with every forkful.

Ingredients

  • 3tomatoes
  • 1cucumber
  • 80 mlolive oil
  • lemonjuiced
  • herbs — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by washing 3 tomatoes and 1 cucumber thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Slice the tomatoes into wedges, aiming for uniform pieces to ensure even flavor distribution. Peel the cucumber if desired, then slice it into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
  2. Place the sliced tomatoes and cucumber into a large serving bowl. This will allow you to mix the salad without spilling. Drizzle 80 ml of olive oil over the vegetables, ensuring they are evenly coated for a rich, smooth flavor.
  3. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the salad, catching any seeds with your hand or a small strainer. The acidity of the lemon will brighten the flavors of the tomatoes and cucumber. Sprinkle fine sea salt to taste, starting with a small pinch and adjusting as needed after tasting.
  4. Add a handful of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, tearing them gently with your fingers to release their aromatic oils. This will enhance the freshness of the salad and add a fragrant note.
  5. Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes; you want them to retain their shape and texture. The salad should look glossy and well-mixed, with each piece lightly coated in the dressing.
  6. Serve the American Tomato Salad immediately, accompanied by fresh bread. The bread can be used to soak up the flavorful juices at the bottom of the bowl, making it a delightful addition to the meal.
Cover of Authentic American Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic American Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic American Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the American volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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