Geoffrey Zakarian’s Tomato Salad

Tomatoes form the basis for this straightforward salad that boasts both refreshing and satisfying ingredients. Easy to put together, it makes an ideal lunchbox choice.

Geoffrey Zakarian is an accomplished chef, restaurateur and television personality known for owning two restaurants (Point Royal and The National) as well as appearing on food-themed shows like Iron Chef and Chopped. Additionally, this New York native is also the author of numerous cookbooks.

His latest TikTok video featured his simple tomato salad recipe using fresh, flavorful heirloom tomatoes at their peak of flavor, along with fresh mozzarella balls and red onion for an indulgent summer dish.

Start by using a stainless steel mixing bowl to combine tomatoes with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, tossing to evenly coat. Finally, splash in some olive oil as needed before refrigerating for at least an hour to marinate. While your tomato marinates, prepare stracciatella cheese if necessary and cut heirloom tomatoes into random geometric shapes before tossing with flavors and herbs before finishing with fleur de sel and cracked pepper for garnish. Served on a bed of butter lettuce as desired!

Salads are quick, tasty meals that can be prepared quickly at any time of year, making it particularly appealing during summer when farmers’ markets are overflowing with colorful produce. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or grilled corn as well as proteins like cooked shrimp, chicken or even bacon for protein content – perhaps switch out basil ribbons for other herbs like dill or parsley for something even fresher!

MasterClass notes that this salad pairs wonderfully with its seasoned olive oil dressing, offering its savory notes that perfectly balance out the bright flavors of tomatoes and other ingredients. Plus, making your own vinaigrette at home couldn’t be simpler: just three basic ingredients will do. MasterClass further explains that flavored olive oils can add heat, sweetness or brightness to salads, soups or meatballs while being stored away safely for up to one year in dark, cool conditions for optimal use!