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Magic Tomato Salad: The Explosion of Flavor in Your Mouth


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  • Author: Talentedcook

Ingredients

 

Tomato Selection

  • 800–900 g mixed tomatoes
  • Heirloom (rich flavor, varied colors)
  • Cherry (burst-in-your-mouth sweetness)
  • Vine-ripened (balanced acidity and firmness)

Fresh Produce & Herbs

  • One bell pepper (red or yellow), cut into a fine dice.
  • A handful each of dill and parsley, finely chopped
  • (Optional: basil, cilantro, or mint for regional twists)

Magic Dressing

  • 50 ml extra-virgin olive oil
  • 25 ml red wine vinegar
  • 30 ml cold water
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt (adjust to taste)
  • 3 tsp granulated sugar
  • ½ Tbsp sweet paprika
  • 5 garlic cloves, finely minced

 


Instructions

 

  1. Prepare the Tomatoes
    Rinse and pat dry all tomatoes. Slice heirlooms into wedges, halve or quarter cherry tomatoes, and chunk vine-ripened varieties. Layer them in a large bowl, showcasing the color contrasts.
  2. Whisk the Dressing
    In a small bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, water, salt, sugar, paprika, and garlic. Whisk until sugar dissolves and the mixture emulsifies into a pale orange vinaigrette. Taste and tweak: more salt for savoriness, more sugar if it’s too tart, or extra paprika for depth.
  3. Add Bell Pepper
    Stir the diced bell pepper into the dressing so each piece is coated, adding sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color.
  4. Toss Tomatoes and Dressing
    Drizzle the dressing over the tomatoes. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently fold the salad—lift from the bottom and turn over—to ensure every piece is glazed without crushing the tomatoes.
  5. Fold in Fresh Herbs
    Sprinkle the chopped dill and parsley over the tossed salad. Fold lightly to distribute the herbs and preserve the salad’s structure.
  6. Chill for Maximum Flavor
    Cover the bowl or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, allowing flavors to integrate and intensify.
  7. Serve and Enjoy
    Remove from the fridge 10 minutes before serving to temper the chill. Transfer to a serving platter or present in the mixing bowl. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the juices, or serve alongside grilled fish, chicken, or pasta.