Red, White and Blue Salad

Red, White and Blue Salad Recipe - A Patriotic Dish from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Red, White and Blue Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or patriotic holidays. The combination of ripe tomatoes, sweet onions, tangy blue cheese, and fresh herbs creates a delicious and visually appealing salad that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The Red, White and Blue Salad is a modern twist on the classic tomato and onion salad. The addition of blue cheese and tarragon adds a unique flavor profile to the dish, making it a standout recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

4 large ripe tomatoes, about 1.25 lb (567 g)
2 medium-sized red onions, about 0.75 lb (340 g) (or you could choose one of the famous sweet onions)
1 tbsp sherry wine vinegar
0.5 tsp finely chopped garlic
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
0.25 lb (113 g) blue cheese, at room temperature (I recommend Point Reyes blue from Marin County, CA)
2 tbsp finely chopped chives and/or basil (you can also use tarragon)

How to prepare

Core the tomatoes and use a serrated knife to make thick slices.
Peel the onions and slice them about 0.25 inch thick.
Arrange the sliced tomatoes and onions on serving plates, alternating and slightly overlapping them.
In a separate bowl, combine the vinegar, garlic, oil, salt, and pepper.
Blend the ingredients well using a wire whisk.
Crumble the cheese and add it to the dressing, ensuring that it remains lumpy.
Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and onions, then sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Serve the dish immediately.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Substitute feta cheese for the blue cheese for a milder flavor.
Add avocado slices for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

- Crumble the blue cheese just before serving to ensure that it remains lumpy and adds a nice contrast to the salad.

- Fresh tarragon is recommended for this recipe, as it adds a bright and herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. It pairs well with crusty bread and a glass of white wine.

Cooking Techniques

Use a serrated knife to slice the tomatoes for clean cuts.

- Whisk the dressing ingredients together to ensure they are well combined.

- Crumble the blue cheese by hand for a rustic look.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red onions or shallots in place of sweet onions.

- Substitute balsamic vinegar for the wine vinegar for a sweeter flavor.

- Use basil or parsley in place of tarragon for a different herb flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and crumble the cheese ahead of time, but assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the salad on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with additional fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled steak, chicken, or fish.

- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best served fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 10g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 6g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 7g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (blue cheese)

Summary

This Red, White and Blue Salad is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy option for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

This Red, White and Blue Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for summer entertaining. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I hold dear in my heart. It was a sunny summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon the Red, White and Blue Salad recipe. I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was known for her delicious and inventive dishes.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the vibrant colors of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and creamy white marshmallows. Martha was bustling about, chopping and mixing ingredients with a smile on her face. I couldn't help but be drawn to the beautiful array of colors on her countertop.

"What are you making, Martha?" I inquired, my curiosity piqued.

She turned to me with a twinkle in her eye and replied, "I'm making a Red, White and Blue Salad. It's a refreshing and light dessert that's perfect for summer picnics and gatherings."

I watched as she effortlessly combined the sweet strawberries, plump blueberries, and fluffy marshmallows in a large bowl. She then drizzled a creamy dressing over the ingredients and gently tossed everything together. The aroma of fresh fruit filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As Martha served me a generous portion of the salad, I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a world of sweet and tangy flavors. The strawberries burst with juiciness, the blueberries added a hint of tartness, and the marshmallows provided a light and fluffy texture. It was the perfect combination of flavors and textures, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the next few weeks, I visited Martha regularly to watch her make the Red, White and Blue Salad. I took notes, asked questions, and practiced making the dish in my own kitchen. With each attempt, I tweaked the recipe to suit my own taste preferences, adding a dash of lemon juice here, a sprinkle of coconut flakes there.

As I perfected the recipe, I shared it with my family and friends, who were delighted by the refreshing and summery flavors of the salad. It became a staple at our summer barbecues and picnics, a dish that everyone looked forward to enjoying.

Years passed, and Martha's Red, White and Blue Salad became a beloved family tradition. I passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, who continued to make the dish with their own unique twists. Each generation added their own touch to the recipe, making it a cherished part of our family history.

To this day, whenever I make the Red, White and Blue Salad, I am transported back to that sunny summer day when I first discovered the recipe. The vibrant colors, the fresh flavors, and the memories of time spent with loved ones all come flooding back with each bite. It's a dish that brings joy and happiness to all who taste it, a reminder of the power of good food and good company.

So as I prepare the Red, White and Blue Salad for our upcoming family gathering, I can't help but smile and feel grateful for the memories and traditions that this simple dish has brought into our lives. It's more than just a recipe – it's a symbol of love, connection, and the joy of sharing good food with those we hold dear. And for that, I am truly thankful.