Description
A fresh and vibrant Herby Marinated Tomato and Feta Salad featuring heirloom and cherry tomatoes tossed in a flavorful homemade vinaigrette with garlic, shallots, oregano, parsley, and Parmesan, topped with creamy feta cheese. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Vinaigrette
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons shallots, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup olive oil
For the Salad
- 4 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz feta cheese in brine, drained and broken into large bite-sized pieces
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: Combine garlic, shallots, dried oregano, dried parsley, freshly cracked black pepper, kosher salt, red wine vinegar, and shredded Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Whirl together for 1-2 minutes until finely chopped. While the processor is running, slowly stream in the olive oil until fully incorporated to create a smooth vinaigrette. Transfer to an airtight container and set aside.
- Toss the Tomatoes: In a large bowl, combine sliced heirloom and cherry tomatoes. Add half of the prepared vinaigrette and gently toss to coat the tomatoes evenly.
- Season and Marinate: Taste the tomato mixture and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Let this mixture sit for 20 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to marinate.
- Serve the Salad: Arrange the marinated tomatoes on a serving platter or leave in the bowl, then sprinkle the broken feta cheese over the top. Drizzle with the reserved vinaigrette if desired and serve at room temperature.
Notes
- The salad can be prepared ahead; store the tomatoes and vinaigrette separately and combine before serving to keep the tomatoes fresh.
- Use ripe, high-quality heirloom tomatoes for best flavor.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese for a different tangy flavor.
- The vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Allowing the salad to sit enhances the flavors as the tomatoes absorb the herbs and dressing.
