Tomato and olive salad

Pasta tastes fabulous when accompanied by a tomato and olive sauce or salad.

The blend of flavours lends it a Mediterranean appeal which is both healthy and appetising.

Not only is this salad quick to prepare, it can be used to complement several other dishes.

INGREDIENTS:

Serves 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

½-kg cherry tomatoes

1 cup black olives, pitted

1 red onion, minutely diced

1/8 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tbsps balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp ground basil

1 tsp oregano

Salt and pepper to taste 

METHOD:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the tomatoes, black olives and red onion.

2. Add the olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Mix well until all the tomatoes and olives are coated with the oil and vinegar.

3. Season the salad with basil, oregano, salt and pepper. Toss and serve. 

Cooking tips:

1. Add a small quantity of grated cheese to this simple salad for an added touch.

2. If you do not have cherry tomatoes, you may use ordinary small sized tomatoes.

3. Use good quality vinegar for a mild flavour.

4. Give the salad a punch by adding a pinch of cumin seeds.