Asian heirloom tomato salad is tasty, healthy, vegetarian, gluten free, and gorgeous to look at. Above all, it’s a simple recipe that shows off the beauty of this magical tomato variety. No cheese, no fuss. It’s so easy to make with a fast sesame honey dressing and focuses on heirlooms as the star of the dish.
I love seasonal produce at the farmer’s market, and whenever I can, I go to the farm with my kids.
We find the best fruits and veggies and most of all, that experience of digging in the dirt and picking nature’s bounty with them is just priceless.
Heirloom tomato season is always a good one to head to the farm.
The pickings are just so big and juicy! I’m talking five star, gorgeous pineapple pie heirloom tomatoes, chocolate stripes, and brandywines.
Therefore, when you can get your hands on heirloom tomatoes like this, it’s time to make something good.
What are Heirloom Tomatoes
Heirloom tomatoes are non-hybrid, open-pollinated varieties of tomatoes that have been passed down through generations of gardeners.
These tomatoes have unique flavor, appearance, and historical significance.
Unlike hybrid tomatoes, which are bred for specific traits, heirloom tomatoes often exhibit a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes.
Nowadays, you can find the best choices at farmers markets and the best natural grocers.
When heirloom tomatoes are in season, you can bet I’m there to grab a bag full.
When are Heirloom Tomatoes in Season?
Heirloom tomatoes are usually in season during the summer months, from late July to early September.
However, the exact timing may depend on your location and climate.
It is best to check with local farmers markets or grocery stores to ask when these tomatoes will be available.
Enjoy them while they’re at their peak freshness and flavor!
How to Pick Heirloom Tomatoes
- Look for vibrant colors: Heirloom tomatoes come in a variety of colors, ranging from red, pink, yellow, purple, and even green. Avoid tomatoes that are overly green or have dull, pale colors.
- Check the texture: Gently squeeze the tomato to feel its texture. The tomato should be firm but slightly yielding to touch. Avoid tomatoes that are too soft or mushy as they may be too ripe or have started to spoil.
- Consider size and shape: Some are round, while others may be oblong or irregular in shape. Choose tomatoes that have a shape and size that appeals to you or suits your recipe. Keep in mind that larger tomatoes may take longer to ripen fully.
- Smell the tomato: Take a subtle whiff of the tomato near the stem. Ripe heirloom tomatoes often have a sweet smell. If the tomato has a bright and yummy aroma, it’s likely to be ripe.
- Check the stem: The stem should be green and firmly attached to the fruit. Avoid tomatoes with brown or dried up stems, as this may mean that the tomato is past its prime.
- Ask the grower or farmer: If you’re unsure about picking the right tomatoes, don’t hesitate to ask the farmer or grower at the farmers market or store.
Remember, heirloom tomatoes are full of flavor and character but may not always have the same uniform appearance as common tomatoes.
Embrace their unique shapes, colors, and flavors, and enjoy the experience of selecting these delicious gems from the market or your own garden.
What is the Taste of Heirloom Tomatoes?
They are known for their rich, wide range of complex flavors and are often prized by foodies like myself, and gardeners alike. These are a top choice for recipes with tomato and especially salads.
The taste of heirloom tomatoes can vary depending on the specific variety, but in general, they offer a more intense flavor compared to conventional tomatoes.
- sweet and tangy taste with hints of citrus
- savory or earthy flavor
- juicy and lush
Types of Heirloom Tomatoes
I used Brandywine and Pineapple Pie Heirlooms for this recipe.
Feel free to use any kind you fancy! (just don’t try this recipe with non heirlooms because it won’t be the same)
Here are a few popular types of heirloom tomatoes:
- Brandywine: These are large and have a deep pink or red color. They are known for their rich and sweet flavor.
- Cherokee Purple: Cherokee Purple tomatoes are medium-sized with a dark purplish skin. They have a rich, smoky flavor and are often considered one of the best-tasting heirloom varieties.
- Green Zebra: Small to medium-sized and have a vibrant green skin with yellow stripes. They have a slightly tangy and zesty flavor.
- Yellow Pear: Yellow Pear tomatoes are small and have a unique pear-like shape. They have a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Black Krim: Medium-sized with a dark reddish-black skin. They have a rich and complex flavor with a hint of saltiness.
- Pineapple: Pineapple tomatoes are large and have a yellow skin with red streaks and marbling.
These are just a few examples of the many types of available.
Each variety has its own special qualities, making them ideal to highlight in an heirloom tomato salad.
What are Pineapple Pie Tomatoes?
Pineapple Pies are a specific variety of heirloom tomatoes.
These are large in size with a yellow-orange skin that often has red streaks or marbling. When sliced, they reveal a beautiful pattern that resembles the slices of a pineapple, hence the name.
The taste is a little sweet and tropical. They are juicy and have a slightly acidic tang, making them a balanced addition to salads, sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own.
Given these points, if you have the opportunity to try Pineapple Pie heirloom tomatoes, you’re in for a treat!
WHATS GOOD ABOUT Asian Tomato Salad
- It’s a vegetarian recipe! No burrata or other cheese.
- So fast and easy. Just mix the dressing and pour over the cut tomatoes.
- Highlights the heirloom tomatoes.
- An Asian tomato salad offers a new flavor in comparison to the ones we already know which uses a lot of cheese and basil. This is a beautiful and fun take on tomato salad.
- Very healthy, low calorie, and gluten free
- Goes well with other main dishes and perfect for family style sharing.
Benefits of Heirloom Tomatoes
Here are some of the health benefits related with eating heirloom tomatoes:
- Rich in antioxidants: Heirloom tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which can help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals: Vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and folate. These contribute to a healthy immune system, good vision, bone health, and overall energy.
- Dietary fiber: These tomatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. Additionally, fiber also promotes feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for those trying to manage their appetite.
- Hydration: Heirloom tomatoes have a high water content, which can help keep you hydrated.
- Potential anti-inflammatory properties: Some research suggests that certain compounds found in heirloom tomatoes may possess anti-inflammatory properties.
It must be remembered, while heirloom tomatoes can be a nutritious addition to your diet, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine what foods best suit your individual needs and health goals.
How to store Heirloom Tomatoes
These gems are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have more than you can eat right away, here are some tips on how to store them to prolong their freshness:
- Keep them at room temperature: Cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will allow them to ripen fully and develop their flavors. However, if the tomatoes are already fully ripe and you want to slow down the ripening process, you can place them in the refrigerator. Eat them cold in your Asian tomato salad.
- Avoid the refrigerator unless necessary: While it is generally recommended to store tomatoes at room temperature, if you have ripe heirlooms that you won’t be able to consume in the next few days, you can place them in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that refrigeration can make them less flavorful and potentially mealy. Only refrigerate fully ripe tomatoes that you plan to use within a day or two.
- Store them in a single layer: Place them in a single layer to prevent them from getting smushed or bruised. Add paper towel as cushion and to absorb moisture.
- Avoid washing until ready to use: It’s best to avoid washing heirloom tomatoes until you’re ready to use them. Moisture can accelerate spoilage, so keeping the tomatoes dry will help them last longer.
- Check regularly for ripeness: Heirloom tomatoes can ripen quickly, especially when stored at room temperature.
All things considered, heirloom tomatoes have a shorter shelf life compared to conventional tomatoes, so it’s best to enjoy them as soon as possible for the best flavor and texture.
INGREDIENTS in Asian Tomato Salad
- Your favorite, freshest heirloom tomatoes.
Sesame Honey Dressing
- Toasted sesame oil
- Honey or raw honey
- Seasoned rice vinegar – The bottle will say “seasoned” for salads. If you have regular RV then just add a pinch of sugar.
- Sea salt
- Black pepper or White pepper
- Green scallions – garnish
- Toasted Sesame Seeds – garnish
EQUIPMENT
- chef knife
- nice large platter
- small mixing bowl or ramekin
HOW TO MAKE Asian Heirloom Tomato Salad
- Pick the best heirloom tomatoes. Chill them for one hour in the refrigerator.
- Slice them horizontally in big cuts, the entire width of the tomato and at least half an inch thick.
- Mix the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Plate the tomatoes in a colorful way, layer, and lay them flat.
- After that, pour the dressing all over the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle thin sliced green scallions all over.
- Sprinkle toasted black sesame seeds.
- Eat right away and enjoy!
ADD INS AND VARIATIONS
- serve with scrambled eggs for breakfast
- add Fresno chilies to make it spicy
- chop like a salsa and serve with fried wonton chips
- add cucumber
- try a squeeze of lime
- add mango slices
- add finely minced garlic to the dressing
- add sautéed shrimp
- add avocado
Try more salads like Filipino Chicken Pineapple Mac Salad for some Island style flavor and don’t miss the best crunchy Asian cabbage salad with sesame dressing that is picture and restaurant worthy.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH Tomato Salad
Since Asian tomato salad has very few ingredients, it’s an easy side dish to compliment more main entrées.
Serve alongside some of these yummy dishes.
- Easy 20 Minute Salt and Pepper Shrimp (with Vinegar Dipping Sauce)
- Honey Miso Salmon in 20 minutes
- EASY Lip-smacking Teriyaki Chicken (you’ll clean your plate and then some)
- What to Do with Leftover Rice
- Easy HEALTHY Noodle Stir Fry
- So Easy Baked Salmon recipe WITH GINGER SOY RUB
- 15 Min Bistek Tagalog: Filipino Beef Steak With Caramelized onions & Soy Lemon Sauce over Arborio Rice
FAQS
Heirlooms are best for salad where tomato is the main highlight. You can use also use organic, on the vine tomatoes and cherry tomatoes.
Yes! Vegetarian, gluten free, low fat, low calorie, and full of nutrients.
No. Once the tomatoes are cut and dressing is poured, the salad should be consumed during that meal time.
No. Do not have the tomatoes out and with dressing for an extended time. This dish is best served while it is cold.
Yes! Omit the honey and use blue agave or sugar instead to make it vegan.
Asian Heirloom Tomato Salad (VEGETARIAN)
Equipment
- 1 small mixing bowl
- 1 large platter
Ingredients
- 4 Heirloom Tomatoes medium to large size; chilled
- 2 stems green scallions thinly sliced on diagonal; omit the white part of the onion (garnish)
- 1 tsp black toasted sesame seeds garnish (optional)
Sesame Honey Dressing
- 1 tbsp Honey add ½ tbsp more if you like sweeter
- 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil
- ¾ tbsp Seasoned Rice Vinegar
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1 pinch ground black or white pepper
Instructions
- Slice your chilled heirloom tomatoes horizontally so they are like big slices all the way through. About a half inch in thickness.Plate them in a nice pattern on a large platter.
- Mix the sesame honey dressing ingredients in a small bowl until well mixed. Pour this all over the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle the thin sliced scallions all over.Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds all over.Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
- Serve COLD
- Serve sooner than later.
- You can add spicy chilies, avocado, mango, or shrimp.
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