Tomatensalat
Tomatensalat Recipe from Germany and Switzerland with Fresh Tomatoes and Seasonings
Introduction
Tomatensalat, or German tomato salad, is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer. This salad is a great way to showcase the fresh and juicy flavors of ripe tomatoes, combined with a tangy and slightly sweet dressing.
History
Tomatensalat has been a popular dish in Germany for many years, especially during the summer months when tomatoes are in season. It is often served as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, and other outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
- 5 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 0.25 tsp fresh ground pepper
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 6 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
- 0.25 tsp dried thyme
- 1 large onion, diced
How to prepare
- Blend all the ingredients together.
- Chill for 1 hour before serving.
- Serve plain or on lettuce leaves.
Variations
- Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Sprinkle feta cheese or olives on top for a Mediterranean twist.
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of white vinegar for a richer flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
- For a more intense flavor, let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Tomatensalat can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, sausages, or sandwiches. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing snack.
Cooking Techniques
The key to making a delicious Tomatensalat is to let the flavors marinate together in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the tomatoes to absorb the tangy dressing and become even more flavorful.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. You can also use red wine vinegar instead of white vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Tomatensalat can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Tomatensalat in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can also sprinkle some black pepper on top for a finishing touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Tomatensalat pairs well with grilled meats, sausages, or sandwiches. It also goes well with crusty bread and a glass of white wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Tomatensalat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To serve, let it come to room temperature or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Tomatensalat contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Tomatensalat contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Tomatensalat contains approximately 15 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Tomatensalat contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Tomatensalat is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
Alergens
Tomatensalat may contain allergens such as onions and Worcestershire sauce.
Summary
Tomatensalat is a healthy and flavorful dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Tomatensalat is a simple and delicious salad that highlights the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes. With a tangy and slightly sweet dressing, this salad is perfect for summer gatherings and outdoor meals. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light snack, and customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist on this classic German dish.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Helga in her cozy kitchen. Helga was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. As soon as I walked in, the enticing aroma of tomatoes and fresh herbs filled the air.
"What are you making, Helga?" I asked, peering over her shoulder at the cutting board filled with ripe red tomatoes.
"I'm making my famous Tomatensalat," she replied with a twinkle in her eye. "Would you like to learn how to make it?"
I nodded eagerly, my mouth watering at the thought of this delicious dish. Helga began to explain the recipe to me, her hands moving gracefully as she chopped and mixed the ingredients.
To make Tomatensalat, you will need ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, fresh basil and parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The key to this dish is using the freshest ingredients possible.
As Helga mixed the ingredients together in a large bowl, she explained how the flavors would meld together to create a refreshing and tangy salad that was perfect for hot summer days. The acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar balanced beautifully with the sweetness of the onions and herbs.
After she finished mixing the salad, Helga handed me a fork and a generous portion of Tomatensalat. I took a bite and was instantly transported to a sunny garden filled with the flavors of summer. The combination of juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and tangy dressing was a delight to my taste buds.
I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. Helga graciously shared her recipe with me, and I made a mental note to add it to my collection of treasured recipes.
Over the years, I have made Tomatensalat countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat. Each time I make it, I think of Helga and the wonderful memories we shared in her kitchen.
One of my favorite memories of making Tomatensalat was when my grandchildren came to visit. They were always eager to help me in the kitchen, and I loved passing down the tradition of cooking to the next generation.
I taught my grandchildren how to slice tomatoes and onions, chop herbs, and mix the dressing. It was a joy to see their faces light up as they tasted the finished dish, their eyes wide with delight at the burst of flavors in their mouths.
As the years passed, my grandchildren grew up and started families of their own. I was thrilled to see them carrying on the tradition of making Tomatensalat with their own children, passing down the recipe from generation to generation.
Now, whenever I make Tomatensalat, I am filled with a sense of pride and joy. This simple dish has brought me closer to my loved ones, creating lasting memories and bonds that will never fade.
I am grateful to Helga for introducing me to this wonderful recipe, and for sharing her passion for cooking with me. I will always cherish the moments we spent together in her kitchen, learning and creating delicious dishes that have become a part of my family's legacy.
As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Tomatensalat, I am reminded of the power of good food to bring people together, to create moments of joy and connection that will last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly thankful.
Categories
| German Recipes | German Salads | Onion Recipes | Swiss Recipes | Swiss Salads | Tomato Recipes | Vinegar Recipes |