Cooking Food Cloud

Saturday, 2 July 2022

Cherry Tomato Salad

This cherry tomato salad is made with flavorful herbs, delicious cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella! Coated in a delicious lemon basil dressing, this salad will soon be your new favorite!

Munching on a fresh salad during the hot summer months is my favorite. If you love salads as much as I do then you must try this California Spaghetti Salad, this BLT Avocado Pasta Salad or this delicious and easy Avocado Tuna Salad! Trust me when I say that they are all delicious and will be the star of the show at any potluck!

The top view of a bowl of cherry tomato salad.

Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe

Summertime is my favorite season because the food is so fresh and delicious. And nothing beats tomatoes straight out of the garden. But this salad doesn’t stop there… You combine it with some herbs and mozzarella cheese! I LOVE using fresh mozzarella in recipes and when I have a chance to use it with some tomatoes, I know it’s going to be a hit! Plus, you can’t beat a salad that looks as beautiful as it tastes. It will look stunning on your table with all of the colors. This cherry tomato salad will for sure satisfy any tomato craving.

The dressing that you put onto this cherry tomato salad is full of flavor from the Italian seasoning, lemon, and basil. Once you combine them all and then drizzle the dressing on the tomatoes and cheese, you will be blown away by the flavor! This salad is the perfect side to any dish. I love bringing it to potlucks or a BBQ! Everyone goes crazy over it! Just you wait, you will see that it’s always one of the first things to get eaten off the table.

Ingredients in Cherry Tomato Salad

Once you have your fresh veggies and cheese on hand, you are on your way to making an easy and delicious salad. Feel free to change it up and add in any favorite herbs or seasonings that you like to make it your own! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements!

Cherry Tomatoes: You can use grape tomatoes as well but I like cherry tomatoes because they are sweeter.
Mozzarella Balls: If you can’t find any mozzarella balls at your grocery store then you can get fresh mozzarella and cut it up into small cubes.
Olive Oil: I used regular olive oil but you can also use extra virgin olive oil instead.
White Wine Vinegar: White wine vinegar brings some zing to the flavor of the salad.
Balsamic Vinegar: I love the sweet and tart flavor of balsamic vinegar in this recipe.
Lemon Juice: The lemon juice brings in a fresh and bright taste.
Italian Seasoning: You can buy this at the store or you can use my homemade Italian seasoning recipe.
Basil Leaves: Chop your fresh basil leaves up nice and fine so that you get some in every bite!
Salt and Black Pepper: Add as much or as little as you want according to your taste.

How to Make a Simple Cherry Tomato Salad

This salad is perfect when you have too many tomatoes and don’t know what to do with them! Whip this up in less than 10 minutes and you will be snacking on a delicious and fresh salad!

Combine: In a bowl add the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
Mix Dressing: In a separate small bowl add the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, basil leaves, and salt and pepper.
Pour: Pour the dressing on top of the tomato and mozzarella and stir it all together.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cut the Tomatoes in Half

If you have some extra time, I would cut the tomatoes and the cheese in half for this cherry tomato salad. It not only makes it easier to eat but it also infuses the tomato juice into the salad and it tastes delicious! However, keep in mind that this salad won’t store well this way though and should be eaten immediately. So if you are planning on having leftovers, keep the tomatoes whole.

2 pictures showing the ingredisnet for cherry tomato salad in a glass bowl with the dressing being poured on and mixed in.

Can I Use Grape Tomatoes Instead?

You definitely can use grape tomatoes in this cherry tomato salad! However, I like to use cherry tomatoes for a few reasons. Grape tomatoes tend to have a thicker skin and are less sweet than cherry tomatoes. Their shape also tends to be more long rather than round.

Cherry tomato salad in a bowl being served with a wooded spoon.

Can You Store Leftover Tomato Salad?

This cherry tomato salad tastes delicious the next day, I love having it for a quick lunch option! If you have leftovers then go ahead and put them in an airtight container. Put it in your fridge and it will last about 2-3 days.

Fresh Cherry Tomato Salad

This cherry tomato salad is made with flavorful herbs, delicious cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella! Coated in a delicious lemon basil dressing, this salad will soon be your new favorite!

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword cherry tomato salad

Prep Time 10 minutes

Servings people

Calories 166kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

2 Pints Cherry Tomatoes
(1) 8 Ounce Container Mozzarella Balls
1/4 Cup Olive Oil
1/4 Cup White Wine Vinegar
2 Tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
1 teaspoon Lemon Juice
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
3 Basil Leaves chopped
Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

In a bowl add the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
In a separate small bowl add the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, basil leaves, and salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing on top of the tomato and mozzarella and stir it all together.
Serve immediately.

Nutrition

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Friday, 1 July 2022

Roasted Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Spears

If you’re looking for the best way to use up all that summer zucchini, this is it! Quick and easy zucchini spears coated in parmesan and garlic and roasted in the oven to perfection.

Zucchini is such an insanely versatile vegetable. Its mild flavor allows it to absorb all the seasonings and flavors you cook with! If you’re like me and have more zucchini than you know what to do with, try these zucchini chips, zucchini fries, and zoodles!

Top-down view of zucchini spears on a gray plate.

Oven-Roasted Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Recipe

The zucchini just isn’t stopping at our house. Once it starts it just doesn’t stop. To be honest, I really don’t mind because zucchini is my favorite summer vegetable! And there are so many yummy ways to utilize it. (You can find my full list of zucchini recipes here!) I will say though- these parmesan garlic zucchini spears are easily my favorite. I love how quick and easy they are to throw into the oven. It takes just a matter of minutes to throw together. And how can you not love the parmesan and garlic flavor combination?? It goes so well on roasted vegetables in my opinion.

These parmesan garlic zucchini spears have a slightly crisp outside and a tender and soft inside. The parmesan garlic coating on the outside is so delicious! It’s such a great way to use up that zucchini crop. They make a great side or quick and easy snack. I’m sure these will become an instant favorite with you and yours. And if you can’t get enough of flavorful roasted veggies, try these roasted cherry tomatoes or cauliflower steaks next!

All Ingredients Needed

This is one of my favorite side dishes to make because it uses such simple ingredients. I’m sure you already have everything you need in your pantry right now! Although this roasted zucchini recipe uses such simple ingredients, the flavor is anything but! It’s savory, zesty, and absolutely mouthwatering.

Zucchini: I used medium-sized zucchini, but since we’re cutting them into spears, large zucchini works too. I just like to avoid zucchini that is too seedy or watery for this particular dish.
Olive Oil: Helps the zucchini crisp up nicely in the oven.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Adds the perfect pop of zesty flavor!
Minced Garlic: There’s no such thing as too much garlic! Roasted garlic is so delicious and gives each bite of zucchini the best savory flavor.
Oregano: I add oregano for a little extra peppery flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: I recommend buying a block of parmesan because you need both grated and shredded cheese for this recipe. Plus, freshly-grated cheese always tastes better!
Salt and Pepper: Add to taste to enhance the overall flavor of your zucchini.

How to Make Baked Parmesan Zucchini

Roasted parmesan garlic zucchini spears are so easy to make! And the best part is, they always turn out perfectly crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside. No soggy zucchini here!

Prep Zucchini: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cut zucchini lengthwise into quarters, then cut in half widthwise. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Lay the zucchini on the cookie sheet and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and oregano. Drizzle over zucchini spears. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
Bake and Broil: Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. To give more of a crisp edge, broil for the last 3 minutes.

How Do You Keep Zucchini From Getting Watery?

Because of its high water content, zucchini can be tricky to cook with. Here are a few ways to troubleshoot so that your zucchini is tender and delicious, not soggy or mushy.

Airflow: Airflow is so important when cooking zucchini. First- make sure you’re not cooking too many spears at a time and that they’re evenly spaced on a baking sheet. Second- I will sometimes put a baking rack on top of my baking sheet and then cook the spears on that so the hot air from the oven can circulate completely.
Cooking Time: Contrary to what you’d think, overcooking zucchini actually makes them release more water. Only cook them for about 15 minutes. If it’s that crispy outside edge you’re looking for, broil for a few minutes instead of adding to the cooking time.
Salt: If you’re dealing with an especially watery zucchini, add your spears to a colander and salt them generously. The salt will draw excess water out. From there, pat them dry with paper towels and then continue the cooking process as usual!

4-photo collage of zucchini being cut into pieces and seasoned with parmesan and garlic.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

I love the simple (yet powerful!) combination of parmesan and garlic, but here are a few extra ways to switch up the flavor of your zucchini spears!

Extra Seasonings: Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes is usually my go-to when I want to add a little something extra to my zucchini. If you want more heat, try dusting them with smoked paprika or cayenne!
Add Herbs: If you know me, you know that I love me some fresh chopped herbs. In addition to oregano, try adding chopped rosemary, dill, or basil! Not only do they add a pretty garnish, but amazing aromatics and a pop of flavor too!
Dips: The size of these spears makes them perfectly dippable. Try serving them with a side of garlic aioli or whipped feta dip!

A Reader’s Review

“This is a terrific recipe, a fabulous way to prepare zucchini. It was easy for me to adapt the flavors and spices to my family’s preferences. Thanks so much!”

Jocelyn

Closeup of roasted zucchini spears seasoned with garlic and parmesan.

Storing Leftover Roasted Zucchini

These zucchini spears make great leftovers! My kids are obsessed with the seasoning on them and love having them as a snack.

In the Refrigerator: In an airtight container, your roasted zucchini will last for up to 4 days.
To Reheat: Lay your leftover zucchini spears out on a baking sheet and cook until warm at 400 degrees F.

Note: I don’t recommend freezing leftover zucchini, it gets extremely soggy when it thaws.

Roasted Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Spears

If you're looking for the best way to use up all that summer zucchini, this is it! Quick and easy zucchini spears coated in parmesan and garlic and roasted in the oven to perfection.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword roasted parmesan garlic zucchini spears, zucchini recipes, zucchini spears

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Servings Servings

Calories 74kcal

Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

3 zucchini medium sized, about 1 ½ pounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon peel grated
1 garlic clove minced
1/2 teaspoon oregano
2 Tablespoons parmesan cheese grated
1 Tablespoon parmesan cheese shredded
salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut zucchini lengthwise into quarters, then cut in half widthwise. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Lay the zucchini on the cookie sheet and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
In a small bow whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon peel, garlic, and oregano. Drizzle over zucchini spears. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. To give more of a crisp edge, broil for the last 3 minutes.

Notes

Originally posted July 22, 2015

Updated July 1, 2022

Nutrition

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7 Day Healthy Meal Plan (July 4-10)

A free 7-day, flexible weight loss meal plan including breakfast, lunch and dinner ideas and a shopping list. All recipes include macros and links to WW recipe builder to get your personal points.

7 Day Healthy Meal Plan

I hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July! Now that summer is truly here check out these “cool” recipes to help you beat the heat! Have the kids help make Blueberry Frozen Yogurt, Raspberry Yogurt Ice Pops, or for the grown ups try my Citrus Basil Mojito Pops! (with or without the rum!) Enjoy!
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The post 7 Day Healthy Meal Plan (July 4-10) appeared first on Skinnytaste.

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The Best Grilling Recipes Ever

These grilling recipes are the BEST and have so much flavor in each dish! Grill to perfection with each of these delicious and simple to make recipes!

Beef, Chicken to Pork, and seafood plus fruits and veggies, these grilling recipes will become family favorites this summertime. A few of my favorites are, Must Make Summertime Grilling Recipes, Top Summer Grilling Recipes or Amazing Grilling Recipes

A collage of 6 pictures of grilled foods with the words "The Best Grilling Recipes" in the middle.

Grilling Recipes are AMAZING

You guys, I just can’t contain my excitement because GRILLING SEASON IS HERE! This is my favorite type of food – backyard bbq, summer grilling spectacular! I am grilling everything in sight and I want to make every single one of the amazing grilling recipes I’ve rounded up for you today! There are SO many options and varieties so if you love meat or vegetables that are grilled to perfection then you’ve come to the right place!

Juicy and delicious, these grilling recipes really take your meal to the next level. Filled with amazing spices and flavor, my mouth waters even just looking at the delicious pictures! Salmon is one of my favorite meals to grill. It is simple and usually takes less than 15 minutes. Shrimp and scallops are also fun to see the grill marks on and taste how delicious each one is. Steak, chicken, and pork know their way to my heart… and grilled veggies? Oh man, I am done for! Create a masterpiece with these grilling recipes and WOW your family and friends!

Grilling Recipe Tips

Grill to perfection with these grilling recipe tips! Learn how to prepare your meat so that you can cook it to perfection and enjoy a perfect meal! Impress your family and friends with these grilling recipes this summertime.

Preparation:

Clean Grill: Yes, you will want a clean grill before starting. Heat up the grill and clean it off using a brush or a grill cleaning spray.
Marinate: If your recipe calls for it (or you really want your meat to be extra juicy) marinate the meat either overnight or a few hours before grilling.
Room temperature: Let the cold meat from the refrigerator sit on the counter for 15 to 30 minutes letting it rest at room temperature. This will ensure an even and simple cooking time for any of these grilling recipes.

Cooking:

If the meat sticks: Try not to move your meat around on the grill too often. It is best to leave the meat cooking in one place and then flip it over to finish cooking it through. If the meat is sticking to the grill, leave it and it will unstick after it is finished cooking.
Don’t squish the meat: When grilling it is tempting to lay the spatula on top of the meat and squeeze it down to see all the juices run out. Don’t! This is all the fat and juiciness that you need for flavor and cooking.
Bone-in meat: Cook these meats on high and over direct heat. Once they have a nice crust look, lower the temperature and place in the indirect heat to finish grilling.
Flare-ups: These do happen every once in a while. Keep a spray bottle of water close by and use it when needed.
Let it rest: Be patient and let the meat rest before cutting into it. This will help the meat hold tight to all the juiciness in the meat. 15 minutes is a good number to wait on.
Cutting meat: When cutting the steak, remember to cut against the grain. The lines in the meat are the direction you want to find and cut opposite of those lines. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as well as keep it tender.

Know Your Meat

Know how to cook your meat the way you like! Here are a few things that will help you get your meat from these grilling recipes turn out just perfect! Using a meat thermometer will help you to know what temperature you need. Once you get this part down, you will have a meal to impress! These grilling recipes are just waiting for you to test them out!

STEAK

Rare: Temperature: 115°F; Remove when it reaches 110°F
Medium-Rare: Temperature: 125°F; Remove when it reaches 120°F
Medium: Temperature: 135°F; Remove when it reaches 130°F
Medium-Well: Temperature: 140°F; Remove when it reaches 135°F
Well Done: Temperature: 150°F; Remove when it reaches 145°F

CHICKEN

Where to put the thermometer: place a meat thermometer into the chicken at its thickest part to check the internal temperature
Cooked Temperature: The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

PORK

Prep: Add in stuffings or marinate any pork for extra flavor and tenderness.
Cooked Temperature: The safe internal temperature for cooked pork is 145°F (medium-rare) and 160°F.

Grilled Watermelon

Grilling watermelon helps the sugars to caramelize and gives it a delicious hint of smoky flavor! Add a drizzle of honey lime sauce and fresh chopped mint on top for the ultimate refreshing side dish.

Ingredients: Watermelon, Honey, Lime juice, Lime Zest , Mint Leaves,