Simple Tomato and Onion Salad

Don't be deceived by this salad's simplicity: the lemon dressing and fresh herbs bring out the complex flavors of the tomatoes and onions, and if the ingredients are good, the results are practically miraculous.  This is a perfect salad to accompany grilled meats and poultry.   Also you can make this salad an hour ahead of time, refrigerate, and toss again before serving.

Servings: 6


Ingredients:

• 6 medium vine ripened tomatoes
• 1 medium sweet red onions
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, season to taste
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp fresh squeezed lemon  juice
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro leaves (or to taste)
• Basil leaves, torned

Directions:

1. Core the tomatoes and cut them in eighths. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Peel and core the onion. Slice it in half vertically. Slice the onion into strips as thin as you can cut them. Add them to the tomatoes.
3. Chop the cilantro and place them in the bowl as well.
4. Whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and cumin. Salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss tomatoes, onion, and cilantro with dressing - adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Sprinkle with basil leaves on top.

Variation:

You can use any balsamic vinaigrette to dress this salad.

• 1/2 c. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 c., or to taste, balsamic vinegar