This Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad is fresh and tasty! With plump tomatoes and tender artichokes, it’s a colorful bowl of happiness. A drizzle of olive oil adds the perfect shine!
I love making it for lunch or as a side. It’s super easy, and I often sneak a spoonful or two before it even hits the table. Who can resist? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichoke hearts are easy to use, but you can also try fresh ones if you have access to them. Just steam or roast them until tender. Frozen artichokes work too!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and bite-sized convenience. If they’re not available, feel free to use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes.
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are super handy, but you can cook dried chickpeas if you prefer. Just soak them overnight and boil until tender for a fresher taste.
Red Onion: If red onion isn’t your favorite, you can substitute with shallots or even green onions for a milder flavor. Just slice them thin!
Herbs: Fresh chives and parsley add a lovely brightness. If you don’t have them, basil or cilantro could work well. Dried herbs can also be used, just use about a third of the amount.
How Do I Ensure the Salad Flavors Blend Together Well?
Letting your salad sit after you mix it is key! This allows all the flavors to mingle and develop a richer taste. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix the salad ingredients well in a large bowl, but don’t worry too much about perfect distribution.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients together until combined and pour it over the salad.
- Toss gently, being careful not to mash anything, and let the salad rest for at least 15 minutes.
- For even better flavor, try to prepare the salad a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just give it a stir before serving!
How to Make Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or one 15 oz can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by getting a large bowl ready. In this bowl, combine the quartered artichoke hearts, halved cherry tomatoes, cooked chickpeas, thinly sliced red onion, chopped chives, chopped parsley, and rinsed capers. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the ingredients well, but be careful not to mash the artichokes.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a bit of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is nicely blended together. This dressing will bring all the flavors to life!
3. Combine and Toss:
Now, pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Using a large spoon, toss everything gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the delicious dressing. It’s okay to be gentle; you want the salad to stay looking fresh and colorful.
4. Allow the Flavors to Meld:
Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes. This waiting time allows all the flavors to come together beautifully, making each bite deliciously flavorful. You can leave it out on the counter or pop it in the fridge, depending on your preference.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a delightful side dish. Grab a fork and dig in!
Can I Use Fresh Artichokes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh artichokes, you’ll need to cook them first. Trim and steam or boil the artichokes until tender, then quarter them. This will add a lovely freshness to the salad!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle a bit over time.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or feta cheese for added flavor and texture. Just keep the overall balance in mind so the dressing coats everything nicely!
Is There a Substitute for Red Wine Vinegar?
Yes! If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as good substitutes. Just start with a bit less than the recipe calls for and adjust to taste!
