Indian Tomato Salad

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 impurities. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a sharp knife, dice the tomatoes into medium-sized chunks, ensuring they retain their juices, which will add flavor to the salad. Peel the cucumber if desired, then slice it into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
2. Place the chopped tomatoes and cucumber slices into a large mixing bowl. This gives you enough room to mix without spilling and ensures even distribution of the dressing later.
3. In a small bowl, combine 80 ml of olive oil with the juice of one lemon. Whisk them together until they form a smooth, emulsified dressing. This will provide a balanced flavor, with the olive oil adding richness and the lemon juice bringing a bright, tangy note.
4. Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and cucumber in the mixing bowl. Sprinkle fine sea salt to taste, starting with a small pinch and adjusting as needed. The salt will enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and help draw out their juices, creating a more flavorful salad.
5. Add freshly chopped herbs of your choice, such as cilantro or mint, to the salad. These herbs will add a fresh, aromatic element that complements the other ingredients. Use your hands or a gentle toss with a spoon to mix everything together, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing without breaking them apart.
6. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice to suit your preference. The salad should have a harmonious balance of flavors, with no single ingredient overpowering the others.
7. Serve the Indian Tomato Salad immediately on a platter or in a shallow bowl. Pair it with warm bread, such as naan or roti, to soak up the delicious juices. Enjoy the salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal, perfect for sharing with family and friends.