| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 15g | 2g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 3g | 3g | 1g |
I’ve spent most of my culinary journey combining the best of two worlds – the hearty, down-to-earth flavors of Southern cuisine, and the vibrant, spicy notes of my Nigerian heritage. With the Vidalia Onion and Tomato Salad, I believe I’ve created an exceptionally vibrant and flavorful fusion of these traditions. This salad makes the most of simple, honest ingredients, in a combination that’s both fresh and deeply satisfying. And it’s veggie-based, to boot!
The Unexpected Joy of Simplicity
The beauty of a Vidalia Onion and Tomato Salad lies in the bare-bones simplicity of its ingredient list. No frills, no obscure speciality herbs – just a harmony of staple veggies enrobed in a classic vinaigrette. It is reminiscent of the Italian tomato and red onion salad, but brings a unique punch of flavor courtesy of the sweet Vidalia onions – a touch of Southern US charm! I often serve this dish alongside my grilled chicken or pan-seared catfish, and it never fails to add a delightful crunch and spark to the meal.
A Powerhouse of Vitamins and Nutrients
This recipe shines not just in its flavor profile, but also in the health department. Vibrant tomatoes and the onions are packed full with essential vitamins and antioxidants. There’s vitamin C, which is splendid for boosting immunity, and vitamin K, a crucial player in ensuring good bone health. The onions are a great source of fiber while both the garlic and Dijon mustard add a subtle depth of flavor, bringing anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits respectively. It is a verdant treasure trove delivering wholesome goodness with every forkful!
Making this salad my own
When making this salad, I like to add a personal touch by using the herbs fresh from my home garden. The basil and parsley provide that hint of freshness whilst standing in the subtle backdrop, not undermining the main stars of the dish – the Vidalia onions and tomatoes. Adding fresh herbs not only elevates the flavor, but also adds a personal touch that reminds me of my home kitchen in Atlanta every time I prepare it. And isn’t that what cooking is all about – a journey of nourishment and nostalgia with every dish we create?
So, try out this recipe for Vidalia Onion and Tomato Salad today! Let it transport you – to a sunny, laid-back afternoon down South, the breeze carrying the scent of ripening tomatoes and the soil whispering stories of home and heritage. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 3 large Vidalia onions
- 6 ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step One
Peel and thinly slice the 3 large Vidalia onions. Wash and slice the 6 ripe tomatoes. Arrange the onion and tomato slices in a large bowl and set aside.
Step Two
In a separate bowl or dressing bottle, combine 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 2 cloves of minced garlic, salt and ground black pepper to taste. Whisk or shake the ingredients together until a dressing forms.
Step Three
Pour the dressing over the arranged Vidalia onion and tomato slices, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Step Four
Add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley to the salad and gently toss to combine.
Step Five
Cover the salad and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to allow the flavors to marry. Toss again prior to serving. Enjoy your Vidalia Onion and Tomato Salad.
