Description

A vibrant and fresh Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad featuring tender artichoke hearts, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all tossed in a flavorful red wine vinaigrette. This quick and easy salad is perfect as a light meal or a side dish, with optional feta or Parmesan adding a delightful savory finish.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Vinaigrette Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

1/4 cup crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan

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Instructions

Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh basil to create the base of your salad.
Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth.
Toss Salad with Vinaigrette: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the dressing.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and add additional salt or black pepper if necessary to enhance the flavors to your preference.
Rest to Meld Flavors: Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes so the flavors can blend together beautifully, intensifying the taste.
Optional Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the salad with crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan cheese for an added savory touch, if desired.

Notes

This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
For a vegan option, omit the cheese garnish.
Using fresh basil greatly enhances the authentic Tuscan flavor.
Adjust the amount of garlic and mustard in the vinaigrette based on your taste preference.