Authentic Amish Summer Tomato Salad

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

Authentic Amish Summer Tomato Salad

The Simple Joy of an Amish Tomato Salad

As I sit on my porch, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I can’t help but smile at the colorful bowl of Amish tomato salad sitting before me. There’s something magical about this humble dish that never fails to lift my spirits and transport me to a simpler time.

The moment I take my first bite, I’m struck by the explosion of flavors. The tomatoes, still warm from the summer sun, burst with a sweetness that only garden-fresh produce can offer. I can taste the care and attention that went into growing these beauties, each one a testament to the Amish commitment to quality and simplicity.

What I love most about this salad is its unpretentious nature. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. The dressing, a simple mixture of apple cider vinegar, sunflower oil, and herbs, enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes without overpowering them. It’s a perfect balance that allows the star of the show – those juicy, ripe tomatoes – to truly shine.

As I savor each bite, I’m reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the little things in life. This salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty and the joy of simple, wholesome food. The crisp bite of red onion and the fragrant basil leaves add just the right amount of complexity, making each forkful a delightful adventure.

There’s something almost meditative about eating this salad. I find myself paying attention to the different textures – the firm flesh of the larger tomatoes contrasting with the delicate skin of the cherry varieties. The colors are a feast for the eyes, ranging from deep reds to sunny yellows and vibrant greens.

As I near the bottom of my bowl, I feel a sense of contentment wash over me. This Amish tomato salad has not only satisfied my hunger but has also nourished my soul. It’s a reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the incredible flavors that nature provides when we take the time to appreciate them.

I can’t help but think that this is more than just a salad – it’s a little slice of summer heaven on a plate. And as I scrape up the last bits of tomato and herbs, I’m already looking forward to my next bowl of this delightful Amish creation.

Here’s an Amish-style Tomato Salad Recipe based on the given ingredients and instructions:

Amish Summer Tomato Salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds fresh, ripe tomatoes from the garden (various sizes and colors)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 cup fresh sweet marjoram or oregano leaves
  • 10 fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup cold-pressed sunflower oil
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Gently wash tomatoes in cool well water. Pat dry with a clean cloth.
  2. Slice large tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick slices. Halve cherry tomatoes and cut others into chunks.
  3. Place tomatoes in a large wooden bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt and let sit for 15 minutes.
  4. In a jar, combine minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sunflower oil, and black pepper. Shake well to combine.
  5. Finely chop the sweet marjoram or oregano leaves.
  6. Drain any excess liquid from the tomatoes. Add the chopped herbs and pour the dressing over the tomatoes. Gently toss to coat.
  7. Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Tear basil leaves and sprinkle over the top.
  8. If desired, add thinly sliced red onion on top.
  9. Let the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Serve this refreshing salad alongside your favorite summer dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats or fresh bread from the oven. Enjoy the bountiful flavors of your garden!

Don’t forget to check out our fresh cucumber salad recipe HERE

To make this tomato salad without using a food processor, you can follow these simple steps:

  1. Finely chop the fresh oregano leaves and garlic clove by hand using a sharp knife on a cutting board.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the chopped oregano, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to create the dressing. You can use a fork or small whisk for this step.
  3. Prepare the tomatoes as described in the original recipe: wash, dry, and slice them according to their size and shape.
  4. Salt the tomatoes in a colander and let them sit for 20-30 minutes, then rinse and drain as instructed.
  5. In a large bowl, gently toss the prepared tomatoes with the hand-mixed dressing.
  6. Arrange the dressed tomatoes on a serving platter and garnish with torn basil leaves and optional toppings like thinly sliced red onion or fresh mozzarella.

This method allows you to create the same delicious Amish-style tomato salad without relying on a food processor. The key is to finely chop the herbs and garlic by hand and thoroughly mix the dressing ingredients before combining them with the tomatoes.

Dennis Regling

Dennis Regling is an author, educator, and marketing expert. Additionally, Dennis is an evangelist, a father, and a husband.

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