Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tomato Tartare is a light, healthy, and visually stunning dish that can be made in just 15 minutes. It’s a great way to showcase the beauty and flavor of ripe tomatoes, and the freshness of the ingredients makes it a delightful treat. The optional addition of avocado or cucumber slices elevates the dish, making it even more refreshing and perfect for a summer meal. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or as a side dish, Tomato Tartare is sure to impress with its delicate yet bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes (heirloom, cherry, or beefsteak)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Avocado or cucumber slices for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Dice the tomatoes into small cubes, discarding the seeds if desired for a less watery dish.
- Chop the Onion: Finely chop the red onion. If the flavor is too strong, soak the onion in cold water for 10 minutes before using.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, capers, basil, and parsley.
- Dress the Mixture: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Toss Gently: Use a spatula to gently mix all the ingredients until well combined, being careful not to mash the tomatoes.
- Chill (Optional): For a more developed flavor, let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Prepare the Plate: You can use a ring mold for a beautiful presentation or serve it directly on a plate.
- Serve Immediately: Carefully spoon the tartare into molds or onto the serving dish, ensuring it’s beautifully presented.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add diced cucumber or avocado for a creamy, refreshing twist.
- Add Protein: Top the tartare with a few slices of smoked salmon, grilled shrimp, or crumbled feta for a heartier version.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or oregano to give the dish a unique flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Tomato Tartare is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- Reheating: This dish is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so it doesn’t require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use any type of tomato for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of tomato, but heirloom, cherry, or beefsteak tomatoes are especially flavorful for this dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While the Tomato Tartare is best served fresh, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 1 day. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
How can I make the tartare more filling?
To make the tartare more filling, add sliced avocado or top it with grilled proteins like shrimp, chicken, or fish.
How do I make the tartare less watery?
To reduce the moisture, you can remove the seeds from the tomatoes before dicing them, or let the mixture sit in a colander for a few minutes to drain any excess liquid.
What can I serve this with?
Tomato Tartare pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or as a side dish with grilled meats.
Can I use lemon instead of balsamic vinegar?
Yes, lemon juice can be substituted for balsamic vinegar if you prefer a lighter, more citrusy flavor.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this Tomato Tartare is vegan and made with only plant-based ingredients.
Can I make this into a salad?
Absolutely! You can serve the Tomato Tartare on a bed of mixed greens for a more substantial salad.
Can I make this with canned tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes work best for this recipe to maintain the flavor and texture, but if you use canned tomatoes, be sure to drain them thoroughly.
What should I do if I don’t have capers?
If you don’t have capers, try using green olives or pickled cucumbers as a substitute for a similar briny flavor.
Conclusion
Tomato Tartare is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a starter, side dish, or light salad, this recipe will delight your guests with its fresh ingredients and vibrant presentation. With its minimal preparation time and easy steps, it’s the perfect addition to any summer meal or special gathering.
Tomato Tartare Recipe: An Incredible Ultimate Delight
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Tomato Tartare is a refreshing and vibrant dish made with ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, capers, and a tangy balsamic dressing. A perfect appetizer or side dish, this no-cook recipe is both healthy and flavorful.
Ingredients
4 ripe tomatoes (heirloom, cherry, or beefsteak)
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional: Avocado or cucumber slices for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Dice the tomatoes into small cubes, discarding the seeds if desired for a less watery dish.
- Chop the Onion: Finely chop the red onion. If the flavor is too strong, soak the onion in cold water for 10 minutes before using.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, capers, basil, and parsley.
- Dress the Mixture: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Toss Gently: Use a spatula to gently mix all the ingredients until well combined, being careful not to mash the tomatoes.
- Chill (Optional): For a more developed flavor, let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Prepare the Plate: You can use a ring mold for a beautiful presentation or serve it directly on a plate.
- Serve Immediately: Carefully spoon the tartare into molds or onto the serving dish, ensuring it’s beautifully presented.
Notes
For a twist, add diced cucumber or avocado to the tartare for extra freshness.
Feel free to top the tartare with grilled proteins like shrimp, chicken, or fish for a more filling meal.
If you prefer a lighter dressing, replace balsamic vinegar with lemon juice.
This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
If you don’t have capers, try using green olives or pickled cucumbers for a similar briny flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
