Ingredients
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3 Plum tomatoesor 6 campari tomatoes
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2 oz Ricotta cheeseAbout 4 tablespoon
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0,5 oz Arugula10-12 Arugula leaves
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0,5 oz Basil10-12 Basil leaves
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1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
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1 tbsp Balsamic glaze
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1 pinch Sea saltor Pink Himalayan salt
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1 pinch Black PepperOptional
Now that we’ve officially entered into summer, my famous tomato basil salad can finally come out to play. This salad with basil and ricotta is simple and healthy to make for your friends and family. If you have a barbecue coming up at a friend’s house and don’t want to have to cook all morning to prepare the food you promised to bring, I’ve just saved you. This Italian masterpiece is for you. If you’re interested in learning how to make this dish, keep on reading.
Which Tomatoes Should I Use?
Now the amount of tomatoes to choose from is endless and at the end of the day, they are great regardless. My kids love them!
The brighter the skin of the tomato is, the riper and juicier it will be.
Look for deep red tomatoes and avoid the pale ones. When making a salad though, I would recommend either plum tomatoes or campari tomatoes. Plum tomatoes don’t have much juice, but they’re high in solids, so they are the best for slicing. They have a delicate flavor, and this would be great with a basil salad. Campari tomatoes, on the other hand, have a sweeter taste. They pack a punch and are full of juicy goodness.
When working with ricotta cheese and basil in a salad, having a sweet tomato will complement the flavors perfectly. You can’t go wrong with either and it will have to be down to your personal preference.
Health Benefits of Ricotta Cheese
It might surprise you to hear that ricotta cheese actually has some great nutrients within it. It contains a high amount of calcium and selenium, protein, and healthy fats in it that make it the perfect salad base.
Ricotta is lower in fats and lactose than most fresh dairy products.
Due to the protein and fat content, it will also help you feel fuller after finishing your plate, unlike other salads you may have tried. Ever had a salad for lunch and less than an hour later you were ready for second lunch? Not this time. You will stay fuller longer. You’re welcome.
Benefits of Basil
Now we are getting into the good stuff. Basil has many health benefits, such as preventing diabetes, boosting your immune system, and is an anti-stress solution. It is a potent herb that offers many health benefits to the body, and it’s delicious. Plus in the summertime, it’s a refreshing ingredient to use.
Recipe notes
I use pink Himalayan salt crumbled in the salt/pepper grinder. It doesn’t usually contain additives, and it’s less artificial.
Pink Himalayan salt contains more calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron.
To reduce the fat content of a dish, do not use olive oil. As a result, the fat content in one serving will be only 7 g versus 17 g.
Let’s Get Cooking
Ingredients
| 3 Plum tomatoes | |
| 2 oz Ricotta cheese | |
| 0,5 oz Arugula | |
| 0,5 oz Basil | |
| 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil | |
| 1 tbsp Balsamic glaze | |
| 1 pinch Sea salt | |
| 1 pinch Black Pepper |
How to make. Steps
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1
Done
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PreparingWash all ingredients and blot them dry, so they don’t become withered. |
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2
Done
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Cut tomatoesCut plum tomatoes into round slices (or on halves if you are using campari tomatoes) |
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3
Done
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Place the first layerPlace the first layer of tomatoes, basil and arugula on a plate, then sprinkle with salt. |
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4
Done
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Place the second layerPut the same second layer of tomatoes after the first. |
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5
Done
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Add the ricotta cheese on top |
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6
Done
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Drizzle salad dressingPour olive oil and balsamic glaze over the top of the salad. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and serve immediately. |
