Tomatensalat I
Tomatensalat I Recipe from Austria - Fresh Tomatoes, Onions, Vegetable Oil and Oregano
Introduction
Tomatensalat, or tomato salad, is a classic German dish that is simple yet bursting with flavor. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish to accompany a hearty meal.
History
Tomatensalat has been a staple in German cuisine for generations. The combination of fresh tomatoes, onions, and herbs creates a delicious and healthy dish that is loved by many.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Thinly slice the tomatoes and onions.
- Layer the tomatoes and onions alternately, sprinkling each layer of tomatoes with a pinch of salt and a dash of oregano.
- Drizzle a small amount of oil on top.
- Serve on individual salad plates.
- Drizzle a little oil around the outer edges of the salad and garnish with a sprinkle of oregano.
Variations
- You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as cucumbers or bell peppers. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To enhance the flavor of the salad, be sure to use ripe, juicy tomatoes. The key to a successful Tomatensalat is to slice the tomatoes and onions thinly to ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Tomatensalat is best served as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.
Cooking Techniques
The key to a successful Tomatensalat is to slice the tomatoes and onions thinly and layer them alternately for a visually appealing dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use balsamic vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor. You can also use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Just be sure to drizzle the oil and garnish with oregano right before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Tomatensalat on individual salad plates for a beautiful presentation. You can also garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It also goes well with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let the salad come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Tomatensalat contains approximately 100 calories.
Carbohydrates
Tomatensalat is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.
Fats
The vegetable oil used in this recipe provides healthy fats that are essential for overall health and well-being.
Proteins
While this salad is not high in protein, you can easily add grilled chicken or tofu to make it a more substantial meal.
Vitamins and minerals
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and folate. Onions are a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
Alergens
This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with food allergies or intolerances.
Summary
Tomatensalat is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Tomatensalat is a classic German dish that is simple to make and bursting with flavor. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish to accompany a hearty meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Tomatensalat. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in a small village in Germany. My grandmother, who was a wonderful cook, had received the recipe from a friend who had traveled to Italy.
I remember watching in awe as my grandmother gathered the ingredients for the salad. She carefully selected ripe, juicy tomatoes from her garden, vibrant green basil leaves, fragrant garlic cloves, and tangy red wine vinegar. As she chopped and mixed the ingredients together, the kitchen was filled with the most incredible aroma.
When my grandmother finally served the Tomatensalat, I couldn't believe how delicious it was. The tomatoes were so sweet and flavorful, the basil added a fresh and herbaceous note, and the garlic and vinegar gave the salad a tangy kick. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before.
From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged my grandmother to teach me how to make the Tomatensalat, and she gladly agreed. Over the years, I have made the salad countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes.
One of the most important lessons I learned from my grandmother was the importance of using the freshest, highest quality ingredients. She would always say, "If you start with good ingredients, you'll end up with a good dish." This philosophy has guided me in my cooking ever since.
I also learned the value of patience and attention to detail. My grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully preparing each ingredient and making sure that every step of the recipe was followed precisely. She taught me that cooking is not just about putting food on the table, but about creating something special and meaningful.
As I grew older and started a family of my own, I passed on the recipe for Tomatensalat to my children. It has become a beloved family tradition, a dish that we always make together on special occasions and holidays.
Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends, neighbors, and anyone else who is willing to listen. I have even taught cooking classes, where I pass on the knowledge and techniques that I learned from my grandmother.
The recipe for Tomatensalat has become a part of my identity, a symbol of my heritage and my love for good food. It reminds me of my grandmother and the joy and passion she brought to her cooking.
I am grateful for the gift of this recipe, and for the memories and traditions that it has created. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to nourish both body and soul.
And so, whenever I make the Tomatensalat, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and love. It is a dish that connects me to my past, to my family, and to the simple joys of life. And for that, I will always be thankful.
Categories
| Austrian Recipes | Austrian Salads | Onion Recipes | Tomato Recipes |