This date tomato salad is a refreshing, sweet, and tangy dish that brings together the natural sweetness of dates with the juicy acidity of tomatoes. It’s a simple recipe, perfect for a quick snack, a side dish, or a light meal.
Ingredients:
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
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1 small red onion, finely sliced
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2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for topping
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients:
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Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
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Pit the dates if they aren’t already pitted, and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
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Peel and finely slice the red onion.
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Rinse and chop the basil leaves.
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Assemble the Salad:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped dates, and sliced red onion.
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Add the chopped basil to the bowl.
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Dress the Salad:
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Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Gently toss all the ingredients together until well mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
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Optional Toppings:
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For an extra touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) over the top of the salad just before serving.
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Serve:
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This salad can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for about an hour to let the flavors meld together more deeply.
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Serving Suggestions:
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As a Side Dish: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish.
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As a Standalone Meal: Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of greens for a fulfilling meal.
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As an Appetizer: Serve smaller portions as a refreshing starter for a larger meal.
Benefits:
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Dates are a great source of fiber and essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium.
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Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate.
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This salad is not only nutritious but also gluten-free and can be made vegan by omitting the feta cheese.
Conclusion:
This date tomato salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that’s both easy to make and healthy. Its simplicity makes it a perfect choice for any day of the week, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a unique side dish to impress. Enjoy the natural sweetness and refreshing tanginess with every bite!