Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
140 | 10g | 1g | 13g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
8g | 3g | 2g | 0.2g |
Growing up in the heart of Texas introduced me to a wide array of vibrant and flavorful dishes, but one recipe that particularly stands out is the Bermuda Onion and Tomato Salad. Drawing on the freshness of summer produce, balanced by the Tex-Mex inspired addition of cilantro and bell peppers, this salad is both a nod to my Southern roots and a celebration of modern flavors.
A Taste of Nostalgia and Innovation
With each bite of the Bermuda Onion and Tomato Salad, I’m transported back to the bustling family dinners of my childhood. At the same time, the incorporation of bell pepper and cilantro gives it a fresh, contemporary spin. Yes, this salad is essentially a medley of raw vegetables, but when combined in perfect proportion, and drizzled with a hint of extra virgin olive oil & red wine vinegar, it magically transforms into a delightful sensory experience.
Health Benefits Galore
This salad isn’t just about great taste, it’s a powerhouse of nutrients too! Bermuda onions, often overlooked in favor of their white or red counterparts, come with their share of health benefits such as supporting heart health. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are known for their antioxidant content, particularly lycopene, which can help prevent chronic diseases. The cucumber provides hydration, while bell peppers inject a dose of Vitamin C. Cilantro, despite being a garnish, is rich in Vitamin K. Lastly, the dressing of extra-virgin olive oil not only adds a flavorful note, but is also a good source of healthy mono-unsaturated fats. Learn more about the health benefits of olive oil here.
Pairings and Similarities
While this salad can certainly hold its own, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, particularly a good old Texas-style barbeque. It’s akin to classic Greek salads with its fresh, crunchy veggies and oil-vinegar dressing. However, the unique use of Bermuda onions adds a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart.
What You’ll Need
- 3 large Bermuda onions
- 6 ripe tomatoes
- 1 cucumber
- 1 bell pepper
- 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Peel the Bermuda onions, cut them in half, and then slice them thinly. Set them aside.
Step Two
Wash and dry the ripe tomatoes. Cut them into slices, making sure to remove the seeds. After slicing, put them together with the onions.
Step Three
Peel the cucumber and slice it into thin rounds. Also, remove the seeds from the bell pepper and cut it into thin strips. Add them both to the onions and tomatoes.
Step Four
Wash and chop the fresh cilantro leaves, then add it to the rest of the prepared vegetables.
Step Five
In a separate, small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar until they’re well combined. This will be your dressing.
Step Six
Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss it together gently to make sure all the vegetables are coated.
Step Seven
Add salt and pepper to your personal taste, then toss the salad once more to distribute the seasoning.
Step Eight
Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.