Find the fresh, vibrant flavors of our cherry tomato and basil recipe.
Perfect for summer, this dish marries the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the fragrant essence of basil, creating a delightful culinary experience.
Ideal for beginners and experienced chefs alike, our Cherry Tomato and Basil dish highlights the beauty of using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create memorable meals.
Explore this delightful recipe with us, perfect for any occasion.
Cherry Tomato And Basil Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Preparation
- Cherry Tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly and cut each one in half. This helps release their juices during cooking, enhancing the flavor.
- Basil Leaves: Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Chop the basil leaves into thin strips. Fresh basil is key to the dish’s aroma and taste.
- Garlic: Strip the garlic cloves and mince them finely. This ensures the garlic flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Cooking Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until hot.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, blending continually, until the garlic is fragrant and softly brilliant. Be mindful so as not to consume it, as it can turn severe.
- Cook Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring well to coat them with the garlic-infused oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Combine Basil: Add the chopped basil to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the basil is wilted and the flavors are well blended.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, you can mix in mozzarella balls for a creamy texture and a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a hint of acidity and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Cherry Tomato and Basil mixture as a standalone appetizer with crusty bread or crackers.
- Use it as a topping for bruschetta by spreading the mixture over toasted baguette slices.
- Incorporate it into main dishes like pasta or grilled chicken for a burst of fresh flavor.
This Cherry Tomato and Basil recipe is a versatile, quick, and delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of tomatoes paired with the aromatic freshness of basil.
Enjoy this dish warm or at room temperature, and savor the simple yet delightful combination of flavors.
Variations:
1. Cheese Additions
- Mozzarella: Enhance the dish with small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or chunks of fresh mozzarella for a creamy texture that complements the fresh flavors of the tomatoes and basil.
- Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving to add a sharp, savory flavor.
2. Herb Substitutions
- Mint: Substitute basil with fresh mint for a unique, refreshing twist that adds a cool, aromatic flavor.
- Oregano: Use oregano instead of basil to give the dish a more Mediterranean profile, perfect for pairing with Greek or Italian meals.
3. Protein Enhancements
- Grilled Chicken: Add slices of grilled chicken breast to make the dish more substantial. The savory chicken pairs well with the fresh tomato and basil flavors.
- Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in garlic and olive oil, then mix them with the cherry tomato and basil for a delightful seafood variation.
4. Vegetable Additions
- Avocado: Incorporate diced avocado for a creamy texture and added richness, great for salads or as a topping for toast.
- Bell Peppers: Add thinly sliced bell peppers to the skillet with the tomatoes for extra crunch and color.
5. Dressing Variations
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a touch of sweetness and acidity that enhances the overall flavor.
- Lemon Vinaigrette: Toss the tomato and basil mixture with a light lemon vinaigrette for a citrusy brightness that complements the dish’s freshness.
6. Pasta Integration
- Pasta Salad: Mix the cherry tomato and basil combination with cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli) for a delicious pasta salad. Add a splash of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Pasta Sauce: Cook the cherry tomato and basil mixture until the tomatoes break down into a sauce, then toss with your favorite pasta for a quick and easy meal.
7. Bread Variations
- Garlic Bread: Serve the cherry tomato and basil mixture on top of garlic bread for a flavorful and satisfying appetizer or snack.
- Flatbread: Spread the mixture over a pre-baked flatbread, add some cheese, and bake until bubbly for a delicious flatbread pizza.
8. Spicy Twist
- Chili Flakes: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the dish while cooking for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Jalapeños: Finely chop fresh jalapeños and mix them in with the tomatoes and basil for a spicier version of the recipe.
These variations offer endless possibilities for customizing the Cherry Tomato and Basil recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Appreciate exploring different avenues regarding various fixings and flavors to make your ideal dish!
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150 kcal
Total Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 10 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 12 g
Dietary Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 6 g
Protein: 3 g
Key Nutrients
Vitamin A: 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 25% of the DV
Vitamin K: 30% of the DV
Minerals:
-
- Calcium: 4% of the DV
- Iron: 6% of the DV
- Potassium: 10% of the DV
Health Benefits:
1. Cherry Tomatoes:
-
- Low in Calories: A cup of cherry tomatoes contains only about 25 calories, making them an ideal low-calorie addition to any meal.
- Rich in Antioxidants: High in lycopene, which helps protect against certain types of cancer and heart disease.
- High in Vitamins: Excellent source of vitamins A and C, supporting immune function, skin health, and vision.
- Dietary Fiber: Aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.
2. Basil
-
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Contains essential oils that reduce inflammation.
- Rich in Vitamin K: Crucial for bone health and blood clotting.
- Antioxidants: Provides protection against oxidative stress and supports overall cellular health.
3. Olive Oil
-
- Healthy Fats: High in monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
- Antioxidants: Contains vitamin E and polyphenols that help protect against oxidative damage.
4. Garlic
-
- Immune Boosting: Contains compounds that enhance immune function.
- Heart Health: Helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
FAQs:
Q. What are the essential ingredients for a cherry tomato and basil salad recipe?
The essential ingredients are cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add mozzarella balls and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Q. Might I at any point substitute dried basil for new basil?
While fresh basil provides the best flavor, dried basil can be used if necessary. Use around 33% how much dried basil as you would new.
Q. How can I make this recipe more filling?
To make the dish more substantial, add protein like grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. Another option is to mix the cherry tomato and basil mixture with pasta.
Q. What are some ways to serve this recipe?
This recipe works well as a standalone appetizer, a topping for bruschetta, or mixed into pasta. It also pairs nicely with grilled meats or as a topping for flatbread.
Q. How should I store leftovers?
Store extras in a sealed shut holder in the cooler for as long as three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or enjoy cold as part of a salad.
Read Others:
Mx Cucumber Tomato Salad
Tomatoes Cucumbers And Onions Salad
Tomato Mozzarella Salad No Balsamic
How To Craft Tomato Basil Salad Balsamic
How To Craft Feta Tomato Salad Cucumber
Last Call:
- The sweet juiciness of cherry tomatoes paired with the aromatic intensity of fresh basil creates a dish that is both visually appealing and a feast for the taste buds.
- This flexible recipe can be delighted in many structures — be it a light serving of mixed greens, a fixing for bruschetta, a side dish, or even a fast pasta sauce.
- The best recipes are those that bring joy and comfort to the table.
Call to action:
- We hope this recipe brings flavor and joy to your kitchen. However, don’t stop here — there’s something else to pilgrim!
- Check out our other posts for more inspiration and culinary adventures.
- Leave your perspectives and encounters in the remarks area underneath.
- Stay connected and never miss a recipe by joining our Pinterest community.