Garden Fresh Heirloom Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing
This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salad highlights the best of summer produce, featuring a medley of juicy heirloom tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a bed of crunchy iceberg lettuce. Tossed in a rich and creamy basil dressing reminiscent of pesto, this dish embodies the flavors of a sunlit garden. Perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish at any gathering, this salad is sure to impress your guests with its colorful presentation and refreshing taste.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
garlic
2 cloves (minced)
fresh basil
2 tablespoons (chopped)
olive oil
1/4 cup (extra virgin)
anchovy
1-2 (rinsed (optional))
pine nuts
2 tablespoons (toasted)
onion
1/4 cup (rough chopped)
sugar
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
water
2 tablespoons (as needed)
salt
1 pinch (to taste)
pepper
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
iceberg lettuce
4 cups (chopped)
heirloom tomatoes
3 (sliced)
cucumber
1 (sliced)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the creamy basil dressing. In a blender, combine the garlic, fresh basil, olive oil, anchovy (if using), toasted pine nuts, onion, sugar (if using), water, salt, and pepper. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, then set aside.
2
Next, wash and chop the iceberg lettuce, then arrange it as a base on a large serving platter.
3
Slice the heirloom tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces and artistically arrange them on top of the lettuce.
4
Drizzle a generous amount of the creamy basil dressing over the salad and serve the remaining dressing on the side for guests to add more to their preference.
5
Enjoy this refreshing salad as a light meal or a delicious side dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this salad?
The recipe is for a Garden Fresh Heirloom Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing.
What type of dressing is used for this recipe?
It uses a rich and creamy basil dressing that is reminiscent of pesto.
What are the primary vegetables in the salad?
The main vegetables are heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, and iceberg lettuce.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly, especially if you omit the optional anchovy in the dressing.
How many heirloom tomatoes are required?
You will need 3 heirloom tomatoes for this recipe.
What is used as the base of the salad?
The salad uses 4 cups of chopped iceberg lettuce as a bed for the other ingredients.
How do I prepare the creamy basil dressing?
Combine garlic, basil, olive oil, anchovy, pine nuts, onion, sugar, water, salt, and pepper in a blender and blend until smooth.
Are the pine nuts in the dressing toasted?
Yes, the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of toasted pine nuts.
How should I cut the tomatoes and cucumbers?
The tomatoes and cucumber should be sliced into bite-sized pieces.
Can the anchovy be omitted?
Yes, the anchovy is listed as an optional ingredient.
What kind of olive oil is recommended?
The recipe recommends 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
Is sugar mandatory in the dressing?
No, the 1/2 teaspoon of sugar is optional.
How much garlic is included?
The dressing includes 2 cloves of minced garlic.
What is the best way to serve the dressing?
Drizzle a generous amount over the salad and serve the remaining portion on the side.
How much fresh basil is needed?
You will need 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil.
Is onion used in the salad or the dressing?
Roughly chopped onion is blended directly into the creamy basil dressing.
How much water should be added to the dressing?
Use 2 tablespoons of water, or as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
What inspired this salad recipe?
This is a Mediterranean-inspired salad designed to highlight summer produce.
What is the total ingredient count for this dish?
The recipe contains 13 specific ingredients.
How should the salad be arranged on the plate?
Arrange the lettuce first, then artistically place the sliced tomatoes and cucumbers on top.
Is the dressing thick or thin?
It is described as a rich and creamy dressing.
Can this salad be served as a main meal?
Yes, it is perfect as a light lunch.
What makes the salad's presentation impressive?
The vibrant medley of colorful heirloom tomatoes and fresh greens creates a beautiful presentation.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe suggests a pinch of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, both to taste.
What is the texture of the lettuce base?
The iceberg lettuce provides a crunchy and crisp texture.
Are the cucumbers peeled or unpeeled?
The recipe specifies sliced cucumber but does not require peeling.
Is this recipe good for summer gatherings?
Yes, it is a refreshing side dish ideal for any summer gathering or party.
Does the dressing require a food processor?
A blender is recommended to ensure the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Is onion a main salad topping?
No, the 1/4 cup of onion is part of the dressing mixture.
Is this salad considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a light and refreshing dish full of fresh garden vegetables.