| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 105 | 5g | 1g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 3g | 2g | 0.2g |
There are countless memories ingrained in our tastebuds, shaping our culinary passions, caressing our nostalgia, and taking us on a journey back to our roots. Bearing in mind these sentiments, a single bite of Barberries and Tomato Salad transports me to unearthing my grandmother’s recipes in the heart of vibrant Spain while opening doors to new and exciting flavors of tropical Miami. The stimulating balance of tangy barberries, ripe tomatoes, and a refreshing burst of cucumber give this recipe a distinctive place in my heart and palate.
A Flavorful Voyage
Born out of my dual heritage, the Barberries and Tomato Salad recipe beautifully dances between the sumptuous traditions of Spanish cuisine and the exciting tropical flavors that Miami brings to the table. Just cooking it brings back fond memories of dancing in Spanish festivals and lazing in Miami’s sun-soaked beaches. A punch of zesty lemon juice, a hint of mint, and a drizzle of olive oil somehow mirror this exciting merge, resulting in a plate that’s nothing short of a symphony of flavors!
More Than Just a Salad
As much as I relish this Barberries and Tomato Salad for its tasteful nod to my roots, I hold it at high regard for its nutritive value too. Tomatoes are a powerhouse of antioxidants while barberries are celebrated for their curative properties. This dish is not just a walk down memory lane, but a step towards healthier food choices!
This vibrant salad is reminiscent of the garlicky Tomato and Cucumber Salad – a summer staple in Spain. But what sets it apart is the addition of barberries, a unique layer of tartness that catapults this dish to a whole new level. Contrasting these intense flavors with more subtle dishes like grilled seafood or a light paella can create a meal that tastes just like a sun-soaked day in Miami, or an afternoon in a lively Spanish plaza.
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups Fresh barberries
- 3 cups Chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup Chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup Chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup Fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup Fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Sugar (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by preparing the fruits and vegetables. Rinse the fresh barberries under cold water and drain them. Then, chop the tomatoes, cucumber and red onion into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step Two
Take the mint leaves, wash them carefully under cold water, pat them dry and finely chop them before setting them aside.
Step Three
In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Add in the cleaned barberries and chopped mint leaves. Toss it gently to combine everything.
Step Four
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a slightly sweet salad, add in the optional sugar. Be sure to dissolve the sugar completely in the dressing before proceeding to the next step.
Step Five
Pour the lemon juice dressing over the barberries and vegetables mixture. Toss it well until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Your Barberries and Tomato Salad is now ready to serve.
Step Six
For maximum flavor, let the salad rest for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
