Uruguayan cuisine is a vibrant reflection of the country’s rich agricultural landscape and pleasant climate, which have long shaped its culinary traditions. At its heart lies a deep appreciation for fresh, wholesome ingredients, often harvested straight from the land. One shining example of this ethos is the “Uruguayan Herb-Marinated Tomato Salad”, a dish that embodies the simplicity, flavor, and beauty of Uruguay’s gastronomic heritage.
Uruguay’s fertile plains and moderate weather create the perfect conditions for cultivating a wide array of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Among these, tomatoes hold a special place. Bursting with sweet, tangy flavor, tomatoes are beloved in Uruguay and have become a staple ingredient in its cuisine. From hearty stews to fresh salads, they are a constant presence, celebrated not just for their taste but also for their nutritional value. This salad pays homage to the humble tomato, transforming it into something truly extraordinary through the addition of vibrant herbs and a well-balanced dressing.
What makes this dish uniquely Uruguayan is its focus on combining fresh, seasonal produce with simple yet robust flavors. The marinade is built around “extra-virgin olive oil”, a key element in South American cooking that highlights the richness of the tomatoes while providing a silky texture. Adding “red wine vinegar” introduces a bright, acidic note that balances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, mimicking the subtle complexity often found in traditional Uruguayan fare.
The herbaceous medley of “parsley” and “cilantro” reflects the region’s love for aromatic greenery. In Uruguay, parsley, often referred to as “perejil”, is a kitchen essential, used to inject brightness and freshness into countless dishes. Cilantro, though slightly more controversial due to its polarizing flavor, is occasionally employed to add an extra dimension of zest. Together, these herbs, finely chopped, infuse the tomatoes with a lively brightness and earthy undertone. The “garlic”, minced finely, gives the dish a hint of warmth and spice, completing the flavorful trifecta.
This salad is designed to be as visually pleasing as it is delicious. Traditional heirloom tomatoes, with their multitude of colors—ranging from deep reds to sunny yellows and even purples—create a stunning mosaic on the plate. This variety not only enhances the dish’s appearance but also ensures a medley of textures and flavors, which are a natural tribute to Uruguay’s diverse agricultural bounty.
The “Uruguayan Herb-Marinated Tomato Salad” also reflects its roots in another way: it caters to the leisurely appreciation of food that defines Uruguayan culture. Letting the salad marinate for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. This process mirrors the slow, intentional approach Uruguayans take toward their meals, where food is not just sustenance but a focal point for gathering and sharing moments.
Whether served as a standalone dish, a light lunch, or an accompaniment to grilled meats—another hallmark of Uruguayan cuisine—this salad encapsulates the flavors, philosophy, and essence of Uruguay. It’s a celebration of garden-fresh produce and the art of keeping things simple, yet memorable—perfect for anyone who wishes to experience a slice of Uruguay’s culinary soul in just one bite.
Uruguayan Herb-Marinated Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups organic heirloom tomatoes diced, for the freshest flavor and texture
- ½ cup (affiliate link)olive oil preferably first cold-pressed for richness
- ¼ cup fresh parsley finely chopped, stems removed
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro finely chopped, optional for added zest
- 2 cloves garlic minced, to infuse a subtle spiciness
- 1 tablespoon (affiliate link)red wine vinegar to balance with acidity
- 1 teaspoon (affiliate link)sea salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon (affiliate link)ground black pepper or to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Whisk together until well emulsified, forming a fragrant herb dressing.
- Taste and season the dressing with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your preference.
- Gently fold in the organic heirloom tomatoes, ensuring each piece is lightly coated with the herb marinade.
- Let the salad marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This is a key step to enhancing the taste.