Matt Preston’s Tomato and Plum Salad Recipe – Australian Special
Matt Preston’s Tomato and Plum Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of ripe plums and the juicy acidity of fresh tomatoes. With its bold colors and clean flavors, this salad is perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or as a standout side dish at any gathering. The combination of sweet, tart, and savory notes, along with herbs and a light dressing, makes this salad not only simple to prepare but also bursting with gourmet flair. Let’s dive into this delicious and elegant creation
- Prep Time15 min
- Total Time15 min
For the Salad:
- 3 ripe tomatoes (heirloom, cherry, or mixed for color)
- 2 ripe plums (preferably red or black)
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional for added texture)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to balanceacidity)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- Toasted pine nuts or crushed pistachios
Prepare the Ingredients:
Wash the tomatoes and plums.
Slice the tomatoes into wedges or rounds, depending on size.
Cut the plums in half, remove the pits, and slice them into wedges.
Thinly slice the red onion and soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow the flavor. Drain before using.
Assemble the Salad:
Arrange the tomato and plum slices on a large serving plate or shallow bowl.
Scatter the red onion over the top, followed by mint, basil, and pomegranate seeds if using.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad just before serving.
Add Garnishes (Optional):
Top with crumbled cheese or nuts for added creaminess and crunch.
Serve:
Serve the salad fresh at room temperature as a light starter or alongside grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian mains.
Best enjoyed immediately to preserve the texture and brightness of the fresh ingredients.
Recipe Notes :
Tomato Variety : Use a mix of heirloom or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
Sweetness Tip : If your plums are very tart, increase the honey slightly to balance the flavors.
Make Ahead : You can prep the ingredients in advance but dress the salad just before serving.
Pairing Idea : Pairs beautifully with grilled halloumi, lamb skewers, or a chilled glass of rosé.
