Cherry Tomato Salad with Soy Sauce

The Soy-Glazed Cherry Tomato Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the umami richness of soy sauce with the sweetness of cherry or grape tomatoes. This quick and easy salad is a perfect way to enjoy the bright flavors of tomatoes even during the winter months. The dressing adds a beautiful mahogany glaze to the tomatoes, enhancing their natural sweetness. With a short preparation time, you can have a delicious salad that is both refreshing and satisfying.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 15 to 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce, plus more to taste
• Pinch of sugar
• 2 teaspoons dark sesame oil
• 4 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, stemmed and halved crosswise
• 1/2 cup whole basil leaves, preferably Thai basil
• Freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, sugar, and dark sesame oil. Whisk them together until well combined.
2. Add the cherry or grape tomatoes to the bowl, along with the basil leaves.
3. Sprinkle the tomatoes and basil with freshly ground black pepper.
4. Gently stir the ingredients in the bowl to coat the tomatoes and basil with the dressing. Ensure all the tomatoes are evenly coated.
5. Let the salad stand at room temperature for up to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and some of the tomato juices to be released.
6. Give the salad a gentle stir once or twice during the resting time to distribute the flavors.
7. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more soy sauce for a stronger savory flavor or more black pepper for extra spice.
8. Serve the Soy-Glazed Cherry Tomato Salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or as part of a larger meal.

VARIATIONS:

• For added freshness, you can include other herbs such as cilantro or mint in addition to or instead of the basil leaves.
• Consider adding some toasted sesame seeds or chopped roasted peanuts for extra crunch and nuttiness.

This Soy-Glazed Cherry Tomato Salad is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of tomatoes throughout the year. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and basil creates a savory and aromatic dressing that beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, this salad is a wonderful addition to any meal. Customize the flavors to your liking and savor this simple yet satisfying dish.