Cheesy Tomato Delight Salad

This delightful salad combines the creamy texture of grated cheese with the fresh taste of tomatoes, creating a dish that is both satisfying and versatile. It's quick to prepare, making it perfect for a last-minute appetizer or a refreshing lunch. The addition of finely grated garlic gives it a spicy kick, while the eggs lend a rich and hearty touch. With the smooth creaminess of mayonnaise binding all the ingredients together, this salad is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. It's ideal for any occasion, whether it's a summer picnic or a cozy dinner at home. The ingredients are simple, easily available, and work together perfectly to create a robust flavor. Best of all, you can adapt this recipe to suit your own taste preferences. Once you try it, this salad might just become a staple in your household!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

200 g hard cheese
3 eggs
3-4 medium-sized tomatoes

Spices and Sauces

4-5 garlic cloves
Mayonnaise (to taste)

Preparation Time

20 minutes including preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instruction

Boil the Eggs: Begin by adding the eggs to a saucepan filled with water. Bring it to a boil and let the eggs cook thoroughly.
Grate the Cheese: While waiting for the eggs to boil, grate the hard cheese using a coarse grater. This forms the base of the salad.
Prepare Tomatoes and Garlic: Chop the medium-sized tomatoes into small pieces for even mixing. Finely grate the garlic cloves using a fine grater or garlic press.
Cool the Eggs: Once the eggs are boiled, transfer them to cold water to cool them down quickly. This will make peeling easier.
Peel and Grate the Eggs: Peel the cooled eggs and grate them using a coarse grater. Grated eggs will blend better with the other ingredients.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cheese, tomatoes, grated garlic, and grated eggs.
Add Mayonnaise: Add mayonnaise to the mixture, starting with a small amount, and mix thoroughly. Adjust to your preferred creamy consistency.
Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with mayonnaise. This will enhance the flavor profile.
Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasoning if needed, you might want to add a bit more garlic for an extra kick or a pinch of salt.
Chill Before Serving: Place the salad in the fridge for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Tips

Substitution: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Cheese Options: Use your favorite hard cheese; cheddar works well.
Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste preference for varying levels of flavor intensity.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 12g
Fats: 28g
Carbohydrates: 5g

Variations

Add finely chopped cucumbers for added crunch and freshness.
Sprinkle with parsley or coriander for an herbal touch.
For a spicy twist, add a pinch of chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or crackers for added texture.
Pair with a light, white wine or an iced herbal tea.

Best Places

Cafe Gratitude - Known for fresh and organic options, their salads are a must-try. Location: Los Angeles, USA.
Le Pain Quotidien - Offers a variety of European-style salads perfect for lunch. Location: Brussels, Belgium.
SaladStop! - A destination for healthy salad blends. Location: Singapore City, Singapore.
The Little Beet Table - A place to enjoy veggie-friendly dishes. Location: New York, USA.
Sweetgreen - Famous for farm-to-table salads that are delicious and filling. Location: Washington DC, USA.
Pret A Manger - Freshly made salads available all day. Location: London, UK.
Toscanini - Offers Italian-inspired salads with local ingredients. Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands.
De Kas - A greenhouse restaurant with fresh picks from their own farm. Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Nopa - Celebrated for using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Location: San Francisco, USA.
Jo's Cafe - An excellent choice for trying out creative salad recipes. Location: Sydney, Australia.