Name: Fresh Tomatoes with Pistachios, Cumin & Scallions Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Fresh Tomatoes (ripe and juicy); 1 cup Raw Pistachios (or substitute with almonds); 2 pcs Scallion (thinly sliced); 1 tsp Sea Salt (for seasoning); 2 tsp Minced Pickled Jalapeno (or fresh jalapenos); 3 tbsp Olive Oil (or substitute with vegetable oil); 1 tsp Cumin Seeds (to be bloomed in oil)

“Summer days are best savored, especially when you’re greeted by the vibrant colors of fresh produce at the market. That’s precisely how this Summer Tomato Salad with Roasted Pistachios and Scallions came into my life. Juicy, ripe tomatoes mingle effortlessly with the delightful crunch of roasted pistachios and the zesty bite of scallions, creating an explosion of flavor in every bite. Not only is this recipe a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights, but it also showcases seasonal ingredients that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re looking to impress at a backyard gathering or simply want a refreshing side dish, this delightful salad is sure to bring a touch of summer warmth to your table. Are you ready to uncover the secret behind this mouthwatering creation?”

Why are tomatoes and pistachios a perfect match?

Vibrant Flavors: This salad bursts with freshness as juicy tomatoes shine alongside the nutty crunch of roasted pistachios.
Quick to Prepare: You can whip this up in just minutes, making it an ideal dish for busy summer days.
Versatile Delight: Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or a light lunch, it complements a variety of meals effortlessly.
Health Benefits: Rich in vitamins and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious addition to any summer spread.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests at summer gatherings with this colorful and flavorful dish that looks as good as it tastes!
For more delicious summer dish inspiration, check out my Grilled Shrimp Bowl or Cheeseburger Salad Sauce.

Tomatoes with Pistachios Ingredients

• Discover the delightful components that bring this salad to life!

For the Salad

Tomatoes – Fresh and ripe tomatoes provide juicy sweetness; they form the heart of this dish.
Raw Pistachios – Adds a nutty crunch; feel free to substitute with almonds for a different texture.
Scallion – Offers a mild onion flavor; slice thinly and rinse to enhance crispness.
Sea Salt – Essential for seasoning; it amplifies the natural flavors of the tomatoes.
Minced Pickled Jalapeno – Introduces tangy heat; swap with fresh jalapenos or omit for less spice.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – Offers richness and smoothness; substitute with a lighter vegetable oil if preferred.
Cumin Seeds – Adds warmth and depth when bloomed in oil; ground cumin can be used, but the flavor may change.

Dive into this flavorsome mix of Tomatoes with Pistachios, and let your taste buds relish the joy of summer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tomatoes with Pistachios, Cumin and Scallions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature is perfect for roasting, ensuring that your pistachios develop a delightful nuttiness without burning. While the oven heats, gather your baking tray and prepare to spread out the raw pistachios for roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Pistachios
Spread the pistachios evenly across the baking tray and place them in the preheated oven. Allow them to roast for about 15 minutes, checking frequently until they become fragrant and start to turn golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, and then chop finely to release even more flavor for your Tomatoes with Pistachios, Cumin and Scallions salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Scallions
While the pistachios cool, trim the scallions’ root ends and slice them thinly. Rinse the sliced scallions under cold water to maintain their crispness, and then dry them thoroughly with a kitchen towel. This step not only prevents them from wilting but also enhances the refreshing crunch in your summer salad.

Step 4: Core and Slice the Tomatoes
Next, take your ripe tomatoes and remove the cores. Cut each tomato into wedges and place them in a large mixing bowl. To the bowl, add a sprinkle of sea salt, the minced pickled jalapeños, two-thirds of the chopped pistachios, and two-thirds of the thinly sliced scallions. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the Tomatoes with Pistachios, Cumin and Scallions.

Step 5: Prepare the Cumin Oil
In a small pot, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the cracked cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 20 seconds, releasing their aromatic essence. This step creates a flavorful oil that you’ll lovingly spoon over the tomato mixture, encapsulating the refreshing taste of summer.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad
Drizzle the fragrant cumin oil over the tomato mixture, ensuring that each wedge gets a touch of that warm, nutty flavor. Then, finish off your salad by adding the remaining scallions and pistachios on top. This final touch not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds crunch, creating a perfect balance in your luscious Tomatoes with Pistachios, Cumin and Scallions salad.

Make Ahead Options

These Tomatoes with Pistachios, Cumin, and Scallions are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can roast the pistachios and slice the scallions up to 3 days in advance. Store the nuts in an airtight container to maintain their crunch and refrigerate the scallions to keep them fresh. You can core and wedge the tomatoes up to 24 hours ahead, but be sure to keep them in the fridge covered to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepared ingredients, drizzle with the cumin oil, and top with the reserved scallions and pistachios for a delicious last-minute finish that tastes just as bright and fresh as if you made it all at once!

Expert Tips for Tomatoes with Pistachios

Choose the Right Tomatoes: Select just-ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; overripe ones can become mushy and watery in the salad.
Crispy Scallions: Rinse and dry sliced scallions thoroughly to avoid wilting; this will keep them fresh and crunchy in your Tomatoes with Pistachios.
Perfectly Roasted Nuts: Keep an eye on the pistachios while roasting; they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds.
Spice It Up: Adjust the heat level according to taste; use fresh jalapenos for more heat or omit them entirely for a milder version.
Make Ahead: If preparing in advance, mix just before serving to maintain freshness; storing the assembled salad can lead to sogginess.
Garnish Wisely: Finish with a sprinkle of additional sea salt or fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an extra burst of flavor!

What to Serve with Summer Tomato Salad with Roasted Pistachios and Scallions

Elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that complement the fresh and vibrant flavors of your salad.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky char from grilled chicken enhances the freshness of the salad, creating a satisfying contrast of textures.
Crusty Garlic Bread: There’s nothing like warm, garlicky bread to soak up the dressing and elevate your dining experience. It’s a cozy complement to light summer fare.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light and nutty quinoa pilaf adds a wholesome base, perfect for balancing the salad while introducing another layer of flavor.
Feta Cheese: Sprinkle creamy feta on top of your salad for a tangy richness that marries beautifully with the tomatoes and crunch of pistachios.
Roasted Veggies: Stir-roasted seasonal vegetables bring extra color and contrasting textures, offering a hearty side that harmonizes with the salad’s lightness.
Chilled White Wine: A refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Riesling pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the nuts and adding a bright note.
Fruit Sorbet: For a light dessert, finish off the meal with a scoop of fruit sorbet, offering a refreshing sweetness that echoes the salad’s vibrant notes.

How to Store and Freeze Tomatoes with Pistachios

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; this keeps the salad fresh and prevents the tomatoes from becoming mushy.

Freezer: Freezing this salad isn’t recommended due to its fresh produce; freezing tomatoes can alter their texture, affecting your delightful flavor experience.

Reheating: If you enjoy leftovers, it’s best to consume them cold; avoid reheating to retain the crispness of the scallions and pistachios in your Tomatoes with Pistachios.

Variations & Substitutions for Tomatoes with Pistachios

Feel free to let your imagination run wild with this delightful salad! Each variation adds a unique twist, ensuring that you can personalize it to your liking.

Creamy Feta: Crumble in some feta cheese for a rich and tangy touch that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes.
Crisp Cucumber: Toss in diced cucumber for an extra layer of freshness; its cool crunch adds delightful contrast to the warm summer salad.
Nutty Walnuts: Swap roasted pistachios with chopped walnuts for a different texture; their earthy flavor makes for a fantastic alternative.
Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro; they infuse the salad with aromatic notes that elevate the dish.
Heat Level: If you’re craving more spice, substitute the minced pickled jalapeño with fresh red chili for a colorful and fiery kick.
Zesty Lime: Drizzle fresh lime juice over the salad before serving; it brightens the flavors and adds a zesty zing to every bite.
Chili Flakes: For an easy heat boost, sprinkle some red pepper flakes just before serving; it adds a lovely warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Roasted Corn: Add some roasted corn kernels for sweet pops of flavor; they marry beautifully with the juicy tomatoes and crunchy nuts, creating a seasonal delight.

For more fantastic summer dish ideas, don’t forget to explore my recipes like Sizzling Chinese Pepper and Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Each can bring new inspiration to your table!

Tomatoes with Pistachios and Scallions Recipe FAQs

What type of tomatoes should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for fresh and ripe tomatoes that are just at their peak ripeness—this means they’ll be sweet and juicy. Avoid tomatoes with dark spots or blemishes; these can signify overripeness. Heirloom varieties or vine-ripened tomatoes work beautifully, bringing vibrant flavors to your dish.

How should I store leftovers of this salad?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help maintain the freshness, but note that the longer it sits, the softer the tomatoes may become. Try to keep the scallions and pistachios separate until serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze this salad for later use?
I don’t recommend freezing the Tomatoes with Pistachios salad since the fresh produce doesn’t hold up well in the freezer. When tomatoes are frozen and thawed, they often turn mushy, losing their delightful texture. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh for an optimal experience.

What if my pistachios burn while roasting?
Very! If you notice that your pistachios start to darken too quickly while roasting, it’s important to remove them from the oven immediately to prevent burning. For future batches, consider stirring them every 5 minutes to ensure even roasting. If they do burn, unfortunately, they’ll be inedible; just discard and try again!

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Definitely! This salad is vegetarian-friendly, but if you have any nut allergies, it’s wise to substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds or omit the nuts altogether. If preparing for guests with dietary restrictions, always check on their preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! If preparing in advance, I recommend mixing the tomatoes and dressing just before serving to maintain the crunchy texture of the scallions and pistachios. If you need to prep ahead, you can roast the pistachios and chop the veggies earlier in the day; just keep them in separate airtight containers until you’re ready to assemble your vibrant Tomatoes with Pistachios salad!