Experience the authentic taste of summer with this exquisite Salade de Tomates et Fromage, a simple yet profoundly flavorful French tomato and fresh mozzarella salad. This dish, a highlight of any French-themed gathering, perfectly embodies the philosophy of French cuisine: using only the finest, freshest ingredients to create something truly memorable. Composed of sun-ripened tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, fragrant fresh basil, and a luscious balsamic vinaigrette, every component is carefully selected to ensure a harmonious and utterly delicious result. It’s a culinary journey that celebrates the simplicity and quality inherent in classic French dishes, proving that sometimes, less truly is more.
Salade de Tomates et Fromage: A Celebration of Summer’s Bounty
There’s a longing that settles in during the long winter months, a yearning for the vibrant flavors of summer that only truly ripe tomatoes can satisfy. I often find myself dreaming of this particular Salade de Tomates et Fromage, especially when confronted with the sad reality of hard, pale tomatoes that line supermarket shelves outside their peak season. It feels like an eternity waiting for July to arrive, bringing with it the juicy, sun-kissed gems from local farmers’ markets or our own gardens. However, for those fortunate enough, some specialty and upscale markets occasionally offer a sneak peek with glorious heirloom varieties earlier in the season, hinting at the summer abundance to come.
The secret to an exceptional Salade de Tomates et Fromage lies not just in the tomatoes, but in every single ingredient. If you manage to find those coveted, colorful heirloom tomatoes – bursting with unique flavors and textures – then take your pursuit of perfection one step further and seek out genuine buffalo mozzarella. This isn’t just any cheese; buffalo mozzarella boasts an unparalleled softness and creaminess that far surpasses the more common cow’s milk versions. While it might be considered a splurge, the luxurious mouthfeel and delicate flavor it brings to the salad are absolutely worth every penny, transforming a simple dish into an extraordinary culinary experience. Its subtle tang and rich texture provide the perfect counterpoint to the sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes, elevating the entire composition.
Beyond the star ingredients, the dressing plays a pivotal role. The quality of your balsamic vinegar can truly make or break this salad. I highly recommend investing in the best aged balsamic you can find – one that is naturally sweet, syrupy, and complex. This depth of flavor eliminates the need for additional sweeteners. However, if your balsamic is younger or less robust, a tiny pinch of sugar in your vinaigrette can help balance its acidity and enhance its sweetness. Alternatively, for a truly authentic and minimalist French touch, many purists will enjoy this Salade de Tomates et Fromage with just a simple drizzle of good quality red wine vinegar and olive oil, allowing the natural flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella to shine through unimpeded. This versatility in dressing options ensures that the salad can be adapted to various preferences while maintaining its elegant simplicity.
Tomato Salad with Fresh Mozzarella: A French Twist on a Mediterranean Classic
My culinary adventures led me to devour countless Caprese salads during a memorable trip to Italy a few years ago. Imagine my delightful surprise when, two summers later, I discovered a strikingly similar combination of ingredients gracing numerous menus across France. This revelation sparked a deeper appreciation for the nuanced connections between these two celebrated cuisines. Having spent considerable time in my kitchen exploring classic French recipes, particularly while cooking my way through Dorie Greenspan’s Around My French Table, the “Salade de Tomates et Fromage” initially didn’t immediately register as a distinct French dish. However, after further exploration, it became clear: this is indeed a charmingly French interpretation of the iconic Italian Caprese Salad, proving that great ideas often traverse borders with elegant adaptations.
The beauty of this simple pairing of tomatoes and mozzarella lies in its inherent adaptability. I recall Dorie’s innovative Mozzarella, Tomato and Strawberry Salad, which further underscored how this winning combination can be reinvented with fresh, seasonal twists. The possibilities for customization are truly endless. For instance, a scattering of briny Kalamata olives can add a wonderful Mediterranean depth, while serving the vibrant tomato and mozzarella slices over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula introduces a peppery, leafy dimension. Consider adding finely sliced red onion for a subtle bite, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for texture. A touch of balsamic glaze, artfully drizzled, can also elevate the presentation and intensify the flavor profile. These subtle variations demonstrate the salad’s versatility, allowing it to be tailored to personal taste or the availability of seasonal ingredients.
Regardless of any creative additions, the foundational advice remains paramount: do not compromise on ingredient quality. With so few components, each one must be at its absolute peak. Seek out the freshest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find – whether they are heirloom, vine-ripened, or even sweet cherry tomatoes. Pair them with genuinely fresh mozzarella, preferably buffalo, and use aromatic, vibrant basil leaves. The difference between an average salad and an unforgettable one hinges entirely on this commitment to quality. This dedication ensures that every bite is a pure expression of summer’s finest offerings. Bon appétit!
Join Us for the Flavors of France: A Progressive Culinary Journey!
Embark on a delightful gastronomic adventure with our virtual Progressive Dinner Party, this month celebrating the enchanting “Flavors of France.” Hosted by the talented Jane Bonacci from The Heritage Cook, this curated event invites you to explore an array of exquisite French dishes, each contributed by a passionate food blogger. Prepare to be inspired and discover new favorites as you journey through a multi-course French feast, all from the comfort of your home.
Appetizers: Setting the French Scene
- Tarte á l’Oignon – French Onion Tart from Spice Roots: A savory classic, this tart features caramelized onions baked in a flaky pastry crust, offering a comforting start to any meal.
- Gougeres filled with Bechamel aux Champignons from Pastry Chef Online: Light, airy cheese puffs filled with a rich, creamy mushroom béchamel sauce – an elegant and irresistible bite.
Salad: Freshness and Finesse
- French Carrot Salad from Stetted: A vibrant, refreshing salad showcasing shredded carrots in a zesty vinaigrette, a staple in French bistros.
- Salade de Tomates et Fromage from That Skinny Chick Can Bake: Our featured dish, a simple yet sophisticated blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil.
Soups: Warmth and Heartiness
- Provencal Vegetable Soup Au Pistou from Mother Would Know: A robust and flavorful vegetable soup from the south of France, often served with a dollop of fresh pistou.
Main Course: The Heart of the Meal
- Duck Breasts a l’Orange from The Heritage Cook: A classic French dish featuring perfectly seared duck breasts bathed in a rich, citrusy orange sauce – a truly luxurious main.
Veggies/Sides: Complementary Delights
- Zucchini Summer Squash Tomato Gratin from Jeanette’s Healthy Living: A comforting and savory gratin, layering fresh zucchini, summer squash, and tomatoes with herbs and cheese.
Desserts: A Sweet French Ending
- Lemon Glazed Madeleines from Barbara Bakes: Delicate shell-shaped cakes with a tender crumb and a bright lemon glaze, perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Triple-Layer Chocolate Macaroon Cake from François Payard from Creative Culinary: An indulgent and decadent cake featuring rich chocolate layers and irresistible coconut macaroons.
Welcome to Progressive Eats, our unique virtual take on a traditional Progressive Dinner Party. This month, we’re immersing ourselves in the delightful theme of “The Flavors of France,” with our culinary journey expertly guided by Jane Bonacci, the talented blogger behind The Heritage Cook. We invite you to explore these incredible recipes, try your hand at preparing something truly unique and delicious, and experience the joy of French cooking.
For those new to the concept, a progressive dinner traditionally involves moving from one friend’s house to another, enjoying a different course at each location. Our virtual version captures this spirit by curating a themed collection of recipes each month. Members of our blogging community contribute dishes suitable for a grand meal or a festive party. You can easily “hop” from blog to blog, exploring each delectable recipe, gathering inspiration, and perhaps planning your own Progressive Eats gathering!
Our core group consists of 12 dedicated food bloggers, but we are always eager to welcome substitute contributors and, if there’s enough interest, are open to forming additional groups. To view our upcoming themes and learn more about how you can participate in this exciting culinary collaboration, please check out the schedule available at Creative Culinary, or simply contact Barb for more detailed information. Join us in celebrating diverse cuisines and sharing the joy of cooking!
Salade de Tomates et Fromage
10 minutes
10 minutes
4 servings
A simple, elegant French salad featuring the freshest ripe tomatoes and creamy fresh mozzarella, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, different colors and sizes preferable
- Two balls of fresh buffalo mozzarella (if available) or one ball plus some bocconcini (small mozzarella balls)
- 2-4 tablespoons small fresh basil leaves or chopped basil
- Kosher or sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup best quality aged balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar, optional if balsamic isn’t well aged
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Gently slice the ripe tomatoes into desired shapes (rounds, wedges) and artfully arrange them on a large serving platter. Next, slice the fresh mozzarella or scatter the bocconcini over the tomatoes. Finish by sprinkling generously with fresh basil leaves, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and the optional sugar (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking until the mixture is beautifully emulsified. Just before serving, lightly drizzle this homemade vinaigrette over the salad for a perfect finish.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4
Serving Size:
1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 298Total Fat: 19gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 333mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 3gSugar: 17gProtein: 9g
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