Summer's bounty is at its peak when heirloom tomatoes burst with vibrant colors and sweet, juicy flavor. This Heirloom Tomato Ricotta Salad is the perfect way to celebrate the season, showcasing the unique beauty and taste of these garden gems. The creamy texture of the ricotta cheese perfectly complements the tomatoes' burst of flavor, creating a simple yet elegant dish ideal for a light lunch, a vibrant side, or a sophisticated appetizer. Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbaceous note, while a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhance the natural sweetness.
This surprisingly easy recipe combines readily available ingredients to create a dish that's both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Forget complicated recipes; this one is all about letting the quality of the ingredients shine. Ready to create this summer masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process.
Tools Needed
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese (preferably Bufala)
- Heirloom tomatoes
- Pink Himalayan salt
- Basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ricotta
- Mush up the ricotta cheese in a bowl. Make it fluffy and spreadable.
Step 2. Season and Arrange Tomatoes
- Sprinkle pink Himalayan salt generously over the ricotta. Hold the salt shaker high to avoid over-salting.
- Arrange the heirloom tomatoes on top of the ricotta. Aim for a colorful arrangement.
Step 3. Garnish with Basil
- Sprinkle fresh basil leaves evenly over the tomatoes. Ensure even distribution.
Step 4. Finish with Olive Oil
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the salad. A couple of capfuls should suffice.
Read more: Sicilian Penne with Cauliflower: A Flavorful Mediterranean Dish
Tips
- Hold the salt shaker high when seasoning to avoid overly salty spots.
- Distribute basil leaves evenly over tomatoes to prevent uneven flavor.
- Pour olive oil into the cap for easier and more controlled drizzling.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 20-28g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of heirloom tomatoes?
While heirloom tomatoes offer the best flavor and color variety, you can substitute them with any ripe, flavorful tomatoes. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious!
2. How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from releasing too much liquid and making the salad soggy. You can prepare the ricotta mixture ahead of time, though.
This Heirloom Tomato Ricotta Salad is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients elevated by careful preparation. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a perfect addition to any summer gathering or a delightful weeknight meal. Enjoy the taste of summer with every bite!