Delicious Cherry Tomato and Blue Cheese Salad: Your Perfect Summer Side Dish
Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this incredibly simple yet elegant Cherry Tomato and Blue Cheese Salad. Bursting with the sweetness of fresh garden cherry tomatoes and the savory tang of crumbled blue cheese, this recipe is a true ode to peak season produce. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for late summertime picnics, backyard barbecues, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort. Don’t let these precious tomatoes pass you by – enjoy them at their absolute best! This salad is a testament to how simple, quality ingredients can create an unforgettable dish.
The Joy of Garden-Fresh Tomatoes and a Family Tradition
There’s nothing quite like the taste of a perfectly ripe, sun-kissed tomato, especially when it comes straight from the garden. Its flavor is incomparably richer and more nuanced than anything you can buy from a supermarket. While I often dream of a sprawling vegetable patch yielding endless bounty, my own garden has seen better days this year. Being pregnant, the intense summer heat and the thought of digging around in the dirt just haven’t sparked my usual green-thumb enthusiasm. My potted tomato plants, sadly, have slowly withered despite my best intentions and attempts to keep them hydrated. Thankfully, my resilient herb garden continues to thrive, thanks to the generous rains we’ve had recently, offering fresh chives, basil, and parsley.
However, my grandfather’s garden is a different story entirely – a testament to his unwavering dedication and lifelong passion for growing. This year, his garden is producing an absolutely astounding amount of tomatoes! At 82 years young, he’s still a force of nature, having planted around 60 tomato plants this season. Believe it or not, this is him “cutting back” from previous years when he’d plant upwards of 120 plants from seed! His gardening prowess is truly inspiring and, dare I say, a little out of control in the best possible way. He’s always believed in sharing his harvest, and his bounty is a staple in our family’s summer meals.
What makes me particularly happy this year is his decision to plant mostly cherry tomatoes. They are, without a doubt, one of my absolute favorite varieties. Their small size makes them incredibly versatile – perfect for snacking, roasting, or, as in this recipe, starring in a simple salad. Their intense sweetness and satisfying pop when you bite into them make them irresistible. When I visited him last week, I made sure to come home with a massive haul of these ruby-red gems, eager to transform them into something special and delicious. It’s truly a gift to have access to such fresh, homegrown produce.
Beyond the Usual: The Inspired Pairing of Blue Cheese and Tomatoes
When it comes to tomatoes, my go-to pairings usually involve creamy mozzarella or tangy feta cheese. These are classic combinations for a reason, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that many people adore. The Caprese salad, for instance, is a timeless summer favorite. However, this time, I felt a spark of inspiration to venture beyond the familiar. The catalyst? A lovely container of crumbled blue cheese from Whole Foods, beckoning me to try something new. I’m so glad I listened to that culinary whisper, as it led to a surprisingly delicious discovery!
The result was nothing short of spectacular. I simply combined the halved cherry tomatoes with the crumbled blue cheese, added a few snips of fresh chives (which, I’m proud to say, *did* come from my flourishing garden!), and finished with a generous drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This seemingly simple concoction transformed into an absolutely delicious summery salad. The sharp, pungent, and earthy notes of the blue cheese beautifully complement the sweet burst of the cherry tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that is both surprising and incredibly satisfying. The fresh chives add a subtle oniony freshness and a vibrant green pop, while the olive oil ties all the elements together with its smooth, fruity richness, enhancing the overall experience.
If you’re a blue cheese enthusiast like I am, you absolutely *must* try this Cherry Tomato and Blue Cheese Salad. It offers a sophisticated twist on a classic summer side and is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it an excellent addition to any upcoming summer gathering – think backyard barbecues, lakeside picnics, family reunions, or even a festive Fourth of July spread. It’s a dish that looks impressive but is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal time in the kitchen, thus leaving you more time to enjoy the company of friends and family. It truly highlights how effortlessly simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor.
The Magic of Cherry Tomatoes: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Cherry tomatoes are culinary superstars, especially during their peak season from late spring through summer. Their small, bite-sized nature makes them incredibly versatile – perfect for snacking straight from the vine, roasting to intensify their sweetness, or, as in this recipe, starring in a simple, refreshing salad. Beyond their delightful sweetness and appealing pop, cherry tomatoes are packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function, potassium, which supports heart health, and powerful antioxidants like lycopene. Lycopene is particularly noteworthy for its potential role in protecting cells from damage, and its bioavailability actually increases when tomatoes are lightly cooked or combined with healthy fats like olive oil.
When choosing cherry tomatoes, look for ones that are firm, brightly colored, and free of blemishes. A little tip for optimal flavor: always store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, to preserve their natural sweetness and texture. Refrigeration can dull their vibrant taste and make them mealy, so only pop them in the fridge if they are exceptionally ripe and you need to extend their shelf life by a day or two before consumption. For this salad, the fresher the tomatoes, the better the outcome!
Blue Cheese: Elevating Simple Salads with Bold Flavor
Blue cheese, with its distinctive aroma and complex flavor profile, might seem like an adventurous choice for some, but for lovers of bold tastes, it’s an absolute revelation. Its creamy yet crumbly texture and salty, tangy, sometimes peppery notes cut through the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully, creating a well-rounded and surprisingly harmonious flavor combination. The contrast between the sweet, juicy tomato and the pungent, savory blue cheese is what makes this salad so compelling and addictive.
There are many exquisite varieties of blue cheese available – Gorgonzola from Italy, Roquefort from France, Stilton from England, Danish Blue, and so many more. Each offers a slightly different intensity and texture, ranging from mild and creamy to sharp and crumbly. For this particular salad, a milder, creamier blue cheese like a good quality crumbled Gorgonzola or a domestic blue cheese works wonderfully, providing robust flavor without completely overpowering the delicate sweetness of the cherry tomatoes. However, if you prefer a bolder statement and enjoy a more assertive cheese, don’t hesitate to use your favorite strong blue cheese. The key is to use a good quality cheese that crumbles well and melts beautifully in your mouth.
Perfecting Your Cherry Tomato and Blue Cheese Salad: Tips and Variations
This salad is wonderfully simple, but a few small details can elevate it even further, transforming it from good to truly exceptional. Always prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients – the taste of your tomatoes, the sharpness of your blue cheese, and the richness of your olive oil will directly impact the final flavor. A good extra virgin olive oil, with its nuanced fruity notes, can make all the difference. For an extra layer of flavor and brightness, consider adding a splash of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. The acidity will cut through the richness and make the flavors pop even more.
Looking for creative variations to customize this already fantastic recipe? While the classic combination is divine, feel free to experiment and make it your own:
- Add More Herbs: Fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced, would be a fantastic addition, complementing both the tomatoes and the cheese with their sweet, peppery notes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano could also work well, adding an aromatic depth.
- Introduce Crunch: Toasted pine nuts, chopped walnuts, or even homemade seasoned croutons can add a delightful textural contrast, making each bite more interesting.
- Make it a Hearty Meal: Transform this vibrant side dish into a light lunch or dinner by adding grilled chicken breast, seared shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas for a protein boost.
- A Touch of Sweetness: A very light drizzle of honey or maple syrup could surprisingly enhance the sweetness of the tomatoes and balance the blue cheese’s tang, adding another layer of complexity.
- Other Vegetables: Thinly sliced red onion or a few crisp cucumber slices could add more depth and freshness, without taking away from the star ingredients.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat that complements the savory and sweet elements.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, allowing the ingredients to shine at their peak. However, if you need to prepare it a little ahead of time for a party or meal prep, you can halve the tomatoes and chop the chives, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper just before serving to maintain the freshest texture and prevent the tomatoes from becoming watery. This ensures maximum flavor and enjoyment.
More Delicious Tomato Recipes from Aggie’s Kitchen:
Once you’ve devoured this delightful blue cheese creation, you might find yourself craving more tomato-centric dishes. Luckily, Aggie’s Kitchen has a treasure trove of recipes that celebrate this versatile fruit (yes, it’s botanically a fruit!). Explore some of my other favorites to keep the fresh flavors of summer going strong:
- Corn, Tomato and Basil Saute – A perfect quick side dish combining sweet corn, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a symphony of summer flavors.
- Pasta Salad Caprese with Roasted Garlic and Balsamic Dressing – A hearty and flavorful pasta salad inspired by the classic Caprese, elevated with the depth of roasted garlic.
- Quinoa Spaghetti with Garlicky Greens and Tomatoes – A wholesome and satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and bursting with garden-fresh goodness.
- Grilled Zucchini Frittata with Goat Cheese and Cherry Tomatoes – An elegant and easy-to-make frittata, perfect for brunch, a light dinner, or a sophisticated appetizer.
- Green Bean, Cherry Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad – Another vibrant and refreshing salad showcasing cherry tomatoes, perfectly paired with crisp green beans and creamy goat cheese.
Each of these recipes offers a unique and delicious way to enjoy the incredible flavor of tomatoes, proving their versatility in everything from light, refreshing salads to hearty, comforting mains. Dive into the world of tomato-rich cuisine and discover your next favorite dish!
Print Recipe
Cherry Tomato and Blue Cheese Salad
Author: Aggies Kitchen
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad, Side Dish, Summer Recipe, Vegetarian
This incredibly simple Cherry Tomato and Blue Cheese Salad is a vibrant and flavorful celebration of summer produce. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, it comes together in minutes, making it an ideal choice for quick weeknight meals, impressive potluck contributions, or a refreshing side at your next barbecue. The sweet burst of garden-fresh cherry tomatoes perfectly balances the savory tang of blue cheese, while fresh chives add an herbaceous lift. Drizzled with quality olive oil, this salad is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly extraordinary. Enjoy the taste of summer in every bite and impress your guests with this effortlessly chic side dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pint fresh cherry tomatoes, halved (approximately 2 cups)
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (choose a good quality, creamy variety for best results)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (from your garden or local market!)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (use a good quality oil for the finest flavor)
- Pinch of coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large salad plate or bowl, gently combine the halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese, and finely chopped fresh chives.
- Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil over the mixture.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
- Very gently toss the ingredients to combine, ensuring all components are lightly coated with the olive oil and seasonings. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of this easy summer salad!
Follow Aggie’s Kitchen’s board Salads on Pinterest for more inspiration!
This delightful Cherry Tomato and Blue Cheese Salad was proudly featured in Tomato Recipes To Eat All Summer Long on Greatist, a testament to its irresistible summer appeal and ease of preparation!
Discover more simple and delicious recipes to make your summer cooking effortless and enjoyable. From quick weeknight dinners to impressive entertaining ideas, Aggie’s Kitchen is your go-to source for fresh, flavorful meals. Happy cooking!