Sardinian-style Tomato Salad

Ingredients

In this Sardinian adaptation, the French dish "Tomates à la Monegasque" is transformed into a Sardinian-style tomato salad. The original dish typically includes tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs, while the Sardinian version focuses on the simplicity of the ingredients and highlights the flavors of the region. The Sardinian-style tomato salad incorporates olives, which add a briny and savory element, and replaces the onions and garlic with fresh basil for a more Mediterranean twist. We alse have the original recipe for Tomates à la Monegasque, so you can check it out.

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced (800g / 1.76 lbs) 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced (800g / 1.76 lbs)
• 1/2 cup (75g) pitted black olives, halved 1/2 cup (75g) pitted black olives, halved
• 1/4 cup (10g) fresh basil leaves, torn 1/4 cup (10g) fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon (15ml) red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, black olives, and torn basil leaves.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and gently toss to coat.
4. 4.
   Let the salad marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Serve the Sardinian-style tomato salad chilled or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If possible, use locally grown or heirloom varieties for a more authentic taste.
• Olives — Opt for high-quality pitted black olives for their rich and briny flavor. You can also experiment with different types of olives to add variety to the salad.
• Basil — Use fresh basil leaves for their aromatic and herbaceous taste. Tear the leaves instead of chopping them to release their full flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or shaved pecorino cheese over the salad.
• Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds for a delightful crunch.
• Drizzle some balsamic glaze or reduction over the salad for a touch of sweetness.
• Serve the salad on a bed of fresh arugula or mixed greens for added freshness.
• Experiment with different varieties of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes, to add visual interest to the dish.

Serving advice

Serve the Sardinian-style tomato salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled fish or roasted meats. It pairs well with crusty bread or as a topping for bruschetta.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tomato slices in a circular pattern on a large serving platter. Sprinkle the black olives and torn basil leaves over the tomatoes. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad for an attractive presentation. Garnish with a few whole basil leaves for a final touch.