Tomato Salad Mom's Way with a Smile

When most think of salad, lettuce always comes to mind.  But I have learned that salad is more than lettuce.  My Mom would make it out of just about anything and it was called salad.  I will slowly introduce some of her favorite ingredients that went into her summer salads that go beyond the lettuce leaf.


3 1/2 minced shallots
3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon of salt (optional)
1 1/2 teaspoons of sugar
1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil

5 large tomatoes cut into 1/2 inch slices ( Mom used beefsteak type tomatoes that are ripe)
2 tablespoons of capers
Pepper to taste
Fresh Basil (12 leaves cut in half)


Mix together your shallots, vinegar and salt and sugar. Slowly whisk in oil to  blend and set this vinaigrette dressing aside.

On a large serving plate arrange your  tomatoes add your capers and season with salt Top with basil, whisk your vinaigrette dressing and drizzle over your salad.

You can also add slices of mozzarella to this dish to add more color and taste.  This makes a wonderful summer salad to eat alone or with sandwich or make for a summer outing.