Crunchy Cherry Tomato Salad With Carrots & Celery
Description
This refreshing Crunchy Cherry Tomato Salad is the perfect light side dish for warm weather gatherings or a quick weekday lunch. It features a delightful crunch from fresh baby carrots and crisp celery stalks, balanced by the sweet burst of halved cherry tomatoes. The dressing, made with safflower oil, cider vinegar, and a hint of brown sugar, ties the flavors together with a subtle tang and sweetness. A sprinkle of celery seed and fresh basil adds an aromatic finish that elevates this simple combination. Because the vegetables hold up well, this salad actually improves in flavor when allowed to marinate for a few hours in the refrigerator. It is vegan-friendly, easy to prepare, and brings a colorful, healthy element to any meal. Serve it chilled to maximize the crisp texture and bright flavors.Ingredients
Directions
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Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
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Peel the carrots and cut them into 1/4-inch rounds or use pre-cut baby carrots.
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Remove strings from the celery ribs and cut them into 1/3-inch dice.
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Trim the green onions and slice them thinly.
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Add the carrots, celery, and green onions to the bowl with the tomatoes.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the safflower oil, water, cider vinegar, dark brown sugar, celery seed, salt, and freshly ground pepper until the sugar is dissolved.
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Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
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Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 5 hours, to allow flavors to meld.
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Before serving, finely julienne the fresh basil leaves.
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Toss the chilled salad with the fresh basil and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired.
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Serve the salad chilled, using a slotted spoon to transfer to a serving dish if excess liquid has accumulated.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 21.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 6.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.7g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.4g6%
- Sugars 3.1g
- Protein 1.1g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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