There’s something undeniably refreshing about a summer afternoon spent outdoors, especially when a vibrant plate of Cherry Tomatoes drizzled with Buttermilk Vinaigrette graces your table. The tangy buttermilk combined with fragrant tarragon creates a dressing that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. I stumbled upon this delightful pairing while searching for a way to brighten up my meals, and it quickly became a staple during warm months.
Picture this: you’ve just harvested juicy, sun-ripened cherry tomatoes from your garden (or picked some fresh from the farmers’ market). With just a few easy steps, you can elevate these little gems into a dish that dazzles your family and friends. The creamy vinaigrette, laced with the subtle licorice notes of tarragon, drapes over the tomatoes, creating a burst of flavor that feels both indulgent and surprisingly light.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe is your ticket to elevating ordinary meals into memorable feasts. Let’s dive into this delightful combination that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
Why are Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette a Must-Try?
Freshness is at the forefront, as this recipe highlights the vibrant flavors of garden-fresh cherry tomatoes. Simple preparation means anyone can whip this up in minutes, making it perfect for quick summer gatherings. Creamy and tangy, the buttermilk vinaigrette adds a delightful twist that pairs seamlessly with the sweet tomatoes. Plus, versatility allows this dish to shine as a salad, side, or even a topping for grilled meats. Elevate your next meal with this refreshing option that promises to impress.
Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette Ingredients
Discover the delightful components that create this vibrant dish!
For the Vinaigrette
- Buttermilk – a creamy base that brings richness and tang, perfect for a simple yet flavorful dressing.
- Minced fresh tarragon – infuses the vinaigrette with a unique herbal flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- White wine vinegar – adds acidity and brightness, balancing the richness of the buttermilk.
- Canola oil – a neutral oil that helps emulsify the vinaigrette while allowing the other flavors to shine.
- Sugar – a pinch helps to round out the acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Ground mustard – acts as a subtle seasoning agent and aids in emulsification for a smooth vinaigrette.
- Celery salt – brings a savory depth, lifting the flavors of the vinaigrette to new heights.
- Pepper – a dash adds just the right amount of heat to enhance the flavor.
For the Tomatoes
- Cherry tomatoes – these juicy morsels are the star of the show, bursting with sweetness in every bite.
- Minced fresh chives – the finishing touch that adds a hint of onion flavor and a pop of color to your dish.
Elevate your culinary adventures with these Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette, a dish that’s bound to be a hit!
How to Make Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette
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Whisk Together: In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk, minced tarragon, white wine vinegar, canola oil, sugar, ground mustard, celery salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is blended and smooth.
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Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill while you prepare the tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Prepare the Tomatoes: Take your cherry tomatoes and, using a sharp knife, halve each one. Their vibrant color will add visual appeal and freshness to your dish.
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Assemble the Platter: On a beautiful serving platter, artfully arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, showcasing their juicy goodness.
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Drizzle and Garnish: Now, take your chilled buttermilk vinaigrette and drizzle it generously over the arranged tomatoes. Finally, sprinkle the minced fresh chives on top for that perfect finishing touch.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delightful vinaigrette.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette
Fridge: Store the leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This allows the flavors to marinate further while keeping it fresh.
Freezer: If you have extra buttermilk vinaigrette, freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag and use within 3 months for best flavor.
Tomatoes: Keep halved cherry tomatoes at room temperature if enjoying them the same day, but refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness.
Reheating: If storing vinaigrette from this Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette recipe, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before using it again.
What to Serve with Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette?
Elevate your dining experience with delicious pairings that enhance every bite of these vibrant, tangy tomatoes.
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Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken contrast beautifully with the creaminess of the vinaigrette, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa adds texture and nutrients, perfectly complementing the juicy tomatoes and light dressing for a refreshing dish.
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Fresh Bruschetta: This classic Italian appetizer with crispy bread and fresh basil captures the essence of summer, making it an ideal accompaniment.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: The indulgent, buttery flavor of cheesy garlic bread is a delightful, comforting pairing alongside the zesty tomatoes.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, a simple cucumber salad provides a cool crunch that beautifully balances the creamy vinaigrette.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish’s freshness and complements the vinaigrette’s tangy notes, making for a delightful pairing.
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Seasoned Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges bring a satisfying crunch and earthy flavors, offering a hearty side that contrasts with the lightness of the tomatoes.
With these delicious options by your side, your meal featuring Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette will be a spectacular feast for all!
Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and personalize this vibrant recipe to your tastes!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice for a lighter alternative. This retains a tangy twist while keeping it dairy-free.
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Herb Explosion: Switch fresh tarragon for herbs like basil, dill, or parsley for a completely new flavor profile. Each herb brings its unique character, perfect for any herb lover.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the vinaigrette for a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully.
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Honey-Sweetened: Swap sugar with honey for a more natural sweetness. This adds depth and a hint of floral notes to the vinaigrette that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes.
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Garlicky Goodness: Mix in finely minced garlic to the vinaigrette for an additional layer of flavor. Garlic adds warmth and richness that enhances the entire dish.
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Texture Twists: Incorporate crunchy elements like toasted nuts (walnuts or almonds) or seeds (pumpkin or sunflower) for a delightful crunch that elevates each bite.
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Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of a lemon or lime into the vinaigrette for extra brightness. Citrus enhances the flavors and gives a refreshing twist that brightens up the dish.
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Roasted Tomato Version: Roast the cherry tomatoes before adding the vinaigrette for a caramelized flavor burst. This adds an earthy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
Make Ahead Options
These Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the buttermilk vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen in the refrigerator (just cover it tightly). For the tomatoes, you can halve them and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours; this keeps them fresh and ready to go. When it’s time to serve, simply arrange the tomatoes on a platter, drizzle with the chilled vinaigrette, and sprinkle with chives for a fresh finish. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time!
Expert Tips for Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette
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Choose Fresh Tomatoes: Use the ripest cherry tomatoes you can find; their flavor is key to enhancing the vinaigrette experience.
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Chill the Dressing: Allow your buttermilk vinaigrette to chill for at least 30 minutes. This enhances its flavor and pairs perfectly with the warm tomatoes.
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Don’t Over-Whisk: When whisking your vinaigrette, mix until just combined. Over-whisking can introduce air, making it less creamy.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh chives add color and flavor, but can easily overpower the dish. Use just enough for a subtle touch.
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Avoid Soggy Tomatoes: Serve the vinaigrette on the side if you’re making it in advance. This keeps tomatoes fresh and prevents sogginess.
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Taste as You Go: While prepping, taste your vinaigrette! Adjust seasonings to suit your preferences, ensuring the best flavor when serving.
Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Look for cherry tomatoes that are vibrant in color with a smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as these can indicate overripeness. If you have access to fresh varieties from a farmers’ market or your garden, those will offer the best flavor.
How long can I store the vinaigrette?
You can keep any leftover buttermilk vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just give it a good shake before serving again, as ingredients may separate over time.
Can I freeze the vinaigrette?
Yes, you can! Freeze your leftover buttermilk vinaigrette in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw a few cubes in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
What if my vinaigrette isn’t thick enough?
Very commonly, if your vinaigrette isn’t as thick as you’d like, try whisking in a little extra canola oil or a bit more ground mustard for added thickness and flavor. Alternatively, let it chill longer in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to become creamier.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Great question! This recipe contains dairy from the buttermilk, so those with lactose intolerance should consider substituting with lactose-free buttermilk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. Always check for any allergies related to soy oil if you modify the recipe and use different oils beyond canola.
How can I prevent my tomatoes from becoming soggy?
To keep your cherry tomatoes fresh, avoid mixing them with the vinaigrette too far in advance. Instead, serve the vinaigrette on the side and let your guests drizzle it over the tomatoes just before enjoying. This keeps the tomatoes crispy and vibrant!
Delicious Tomatoes with Buttermilk Vinaigrette Surprise
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk, minced tarragon, white wine vinegar, canola oil, sugar, ground mustard, celery salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is blended and smooth.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill while you prepare the tomatoes.
- Take your cherry tomatoes and halve each one using a sharp knife.
- On a beautiful serving platter, artfully arrange the halved cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the chilled buttermilk vinaigrette generously over the arranged tomatoes and sprinkle with minced fresh chives.