Tomato-Apricot Salad With Feta, Mint, and Lemon Recipe
A bright blend of fruits and cheese that elevates any meal with effortless freshness.
Tomato-Apricot Salad With Feta, Mint, and Lemon
This lively salad recipe delivers the quintessential flavors of summer, balancing sweet, tangy, and salty notes in every bite. Combining ripe tomatoes, juicy apricots, creamy feta, and aromatic mint, it’s a dish guaranteed to refresh. The addition of lemon creates a bright, zesty dressing that brings all ingredients together beautifully. Make this salad for your next cookout, picnic, or as a side to grilled meats—and prepare to impress with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Works
- Seasonal fruits: Fresh tomatoes and ripe apricots provide sweetness, acidity, and juiciness.
- Contrasting flavors: Feta cheese adds a creamy, salty component, while mint offers herbal freshness.
- Simple technique: Quick assembly makes this salad convenient for any occasion.
- Balanced dressing: Lemon juice, olive oil, and honey create a vibrant, layered vinaigrette.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ripe tomatoes (heirloom or cherry recommended) | About 1.5 pounds |
| Fresh apricots | 4 medium |
| Feta cheese, block type | 100g (about 3.5oz) |
| Fresh mint leaves | 1/4 cup, loosely packed |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons (plus zest) |
| Honey | 2 teaspoons |
| Kosher salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes:
- Wash and core the tomatoes.
- Slice into thick wedges if using larger tomatoes, or halve cherry tomatoes.
- Arrange evenly on a large platter or salad bowl.
- Slice the apricots:
- Halve and pit the apricots.
- Cut into wedges, similar in size to the tomatoes.
- Scatter them among the tomatoes.
- Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and honey.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Assemble the salad:
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the tomatoes and apricots.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the top.
- Sprinkle with fresh mint leaves (tear if large).
- Finish with a final pinch of salt and pepper, to taste.
Tips For Success
- Choose fully ripe tomatoes and apricots for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Use block feta in brine; avoid pre-crumbled feta for better texture and creaminess.
- Mint should be fresh—not dried—for the best aroma and taste.
- Let the salad rest for 10 minutes after dressing so juices meld and flavors intensify.
- Customize with other soft herbs such as basil or cilantro if you wish.
Ingredient Spotlight
Tomatoes
Tomatoes provide the base for this salad. Opt for a variety of heirloom or cherry tomatoes for a mixture of colors, textures, and flavor dimensions. Ripe tomatoes contribute acidity, sweetness, and umami, which balance beautifully with the cheese and fruit.
Apricots
Fresh apricots are at their peak in summer. Look for fruits that yield slightly to gentle pressure. When combined with tomatoes, they provide a delicate tartness and light floral note that distinguishes this salad from more typical tomato-based variations.
Feta Cheese
Feta, a classic Mediterranean cheese, delivers a tangy, salty punch that elevates the sweetness of the tomatoes and apricots. Buy feta in blocks packed in brine for the creamiest mouthfeel and richest flavor.
Mint
Mint adds a layer of herbal brightness. Its fresh notes clear the palate between each bite and highlight the fruitiness of the apricots. For deeper complexity, try adding a few fresh basil leaves along with the mint.
What others are reading
Lemon and Honey
Lemon provides acidity, and zest brings aromatic oils. Honey rounds out the tart and salty flavors with gentle sweetness. This simple vinaigrette makes the salad pop and ties all the elements together.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
- Pair with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish for a complete meal.
- Make ahead and refrigerate, but add the mint just before serving to retain its brightness.
- As a light lunch, spoon over crusty bread and drizzle with more olive oil.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute other fruits for apricot?
A: Yes. Peaches, nectarines, or plums are tasty alternatives. Use ripe, but not overly soft fruit to maintain texture.
Q: Which type of tomatoes is best for this recipe?
A: Heirloom or cherry tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and bright color, but any ripe tomato works.
Q: How can I make this salad vegan?
A: Replace feta cheese with a plant-based feta or omit the cheese and add toasted nuts (such as pistachios) for crunch and extra richness.
Q: Are there other herbs I can use?
A: Basil, cilantro, or parsley also complement this salad. Mix and match for diverse flavor notes.
Q: How long will this salad keep?
A: Best eaten fresh, but leftovers (minus added mint) will keep for up to 24 hours refrigerated. Mint can discolor or wilt, so add it just before serving.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Note: Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
Make It Your Own: Variations
- Add toasted nuts: Pistachios, walnuts, or almonds bring crunch and nutty flavor.
- More herbs: A combination of mint, basil, and parsley enhances aroma and complexity.
- Change the cheese: Goat cheese or ricotta salata offer creamy or salty alternatives.
- Add grains: Mix the salad with cooked farro or quinoa for a heartier, main-dish option.
- Include greens: Serve over arugula or baby spinach for extra freshness.
Expert Tips
Marinate your tomatoes: Before assembling, toss tomatoes with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out natural juices, magnifies flavor, and softens textures without breaking down the fruit.
Layer flavors: Sprinkle a little lemon zest, fresh black pepper, or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving to highlight the salad’s aromas and flavors.
Don’t rush the mint: Add the mint at the last moment to keep it tasting fresh and vivid, as it wilts quickly when mixed with acidic fruits and dressing.
Conclusion
Tomato-apricot salad with feta, mint, and lemon is a dish that sings with summer ingredients, vibrant colors, and bold flavors. The interplay of juicy tomatoes, sweet-tart apricots, salty feta, and fresh mint creates a memorable side for everything from casual cookouts to elegant dinners. With just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients and a simple dressing, you’ll find this recipe becoming a seasonal favorite. Experiment with different fruit and herb combinations—there’s room for creativity, and the results are always delicious.
References
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