This Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad is fresh and colorful, packed with juicy tomatoes and bright artichokes. It’s drizzled with a zesty dressing that brings everything together!
Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch. I often make it when I’m feeling fancy but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. Quick, easy, and always a hit! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichoke hearts save time and are ready to use. If you can’t find them, frozen artichoke hearts work well too, just thaw and drain them first.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are perfect for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, substitute grape tomatoes or even regular tomatoes diced into small pieces.
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient, but you can also use cooked dried chickpeas. For a protein swap, try cooked lentils if you prefer a different flavor.
Red Onion: I like using red onion for its milder flavor. However, you can substitute with sweet onion or even green onions for a lighter taste.
Capers: These add a salty, tangy punch. If you’re looking for a milder option, use sliced olives or even dill pickles as a substitute.
Fresh Herbs: I love the taste of fresh parsley and basil. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Has the Best Flavor?
Letting your salad sit for a bit is key! This allows all the flavors to blend perfectly. Here’s how to enhance that flavor even more:
- After mixing your salad, cover it and let it sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
- Right before serving, give it another light toss. It helps to bring the flavors together again.
- Taste the salad before serving; you can always add a touch of salt or additional herbs to balance the flavors.
For added depth, consider a splash of lemon juice just before you serve it. Enjoy a fresh and vibrant dish!
How to Make Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
For The Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing everything together. Then, allow the salad to sit for about 15-20 minutes so the flavors can blend. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Grab a large mixing bowl and add the drained artichoke hearts, halved cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, thinly sliced red onion, and rinsed capers. Give them a gentle stir to mix everything together.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors together, so make sure it’s well combined!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture, and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to squish the cherry tomatoes!
4. Add the Fresh Herbs:
Now, add in the chopped parsley and basil (if using) to the salad. Toss gently once more to distribute the herbs throughout the salad.
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This will help the flavors meld beautifully. You can also pop it in the fridge if you prefer it chilled!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad is ready! Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or light meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Artichoke Hearts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen artichoke hearts completely before using them. You can quick-thaw them by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, drain and quarter them as described in the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Chickpeas?
If you don’t have chickpeas on hand, you can substitute them with canned white beans like cannellini or great northern beans. They provide a similar texture and protein content. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the salad!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier! Just give it a good toss before serving again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives to suit your taste. Just chop them and mix them in with the other ingredients in the salad for added flavor and crunch!
