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This tomato garlic salad has become my summer salvation on those sweltering days when turning on the stove feels like punishment. The cool creaminess paired with garden-fresh tomatoes creates a dish that celebrates simplicity.
I first made this for an impromptu backyard barbecue when my garden was overflowing with tomatoes. My neighbor asked for the recipe three times before the evening ended.
Ingredients
- Beefsteak tomatoes: Juicy and meaty varieties hold up best in this salad
- Garlic cloves: Freshly grated provides a punchy flavor foundation
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and creates the creamy base
- Mayonnaise: Brings richness and helps the dressing cling to tomatoes
- Fresh dill: Brightens the entire dish with its distinctive herbaceous notes
- Salt and pepper: Enhances all flavors and balances the acidity
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Create the Dressing:
- Combine sour cream and mayonnaise in a small bowl until completely smooth. Grate the garlic cloves directly into the mixture using a microplane for the finest texture. This ensures the garlic flavor disperses evenly throughout without overwhelming bites. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture takes on a silky consistency.
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Select ripe but firm beefsteak tomatoes and cut them into generous chunks about 1-inch square. The key is maintaining some substance so they hold their shape while absorbing the dressing. Place the cut tomatoes in a large serving bowl with plenty of room for gentle tossing.
- Combine and Season:
- Add the chopped fresh dill to the tomatoes then pour the garlic dressing over everything. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use a large spoon or spatula to fold the ingredients together with a gentle touch avoiding breaking down the tomatoes. The goal is to coat each piece evenly while maintaining their juicy integrity.
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The first time I served this at a family gathering, my father in law who claimed to dislike tomatoes ate three helpings. The creamy garlic dressing transforms even ordinary tomatoes into something extraordinary.
Seasonal Variations
Summer calls for the juiciest heirloom varieties you can find at your local farmers market. The multicolored tomatoes create a stunning visual presentation while offering subtle flavor differences. During cooler months when tomatoes aren’t at their peak, consider roasting them briefly to concentrate their sweetness before cooling and adding to the salad.
Make It A Meal
This salad transitions from side dish to main course with a few thoughtful additions. Try adding cubed feta cheese, kalamata olives, and thinly sliced cucumber for a Mediterranean-inspired lunch. Alternatively, toss in some cooked and chilled orzo pasta with grilled chicken for a complete dinner option that remains refreshingly light.
Storage Tips
The dressed salad will release moisture over time as the salt draws liquid from the tomatoes. For best results, consume within 24 hours of preparation. If you need to prepare components ahead, store the dressing separately from the cut tomatoes and combine just before serving. The dressing itself keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
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This salad becomes everyone’s favorite side dish. Its simplicity and balance of flavors highlight how magical summer produce can be.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other types of tomatoes for this dish?
Yes, you can use other types of tomatoes like Roma or cherry tomatoes. Just adjust the cutting size to suit the tomato variety.
- → How can I make the salad dressing lighter?
You can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter yet creamy dressing.
- → Can this salad be made ahead of time?
It's best to prepare it fresh, but you can prepare the dressing and cut the tomatoes in advance. Combine them just before serving.
- → What can I add to enhance the salad flavors?
You can add chopped cucumbers, thinly sliced onions, or a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor and texture.
- → Is there a vegan alternative to this dish?
For a vegan version, replace sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives and ensure other ingredients are vegan-friendly.