Mediterranean Tomato & Orange Salad with OleTurk Premium EVOO

Ingredients (serves 2):

• Ripe tomatoes — 3–4
• Orange — 1
• Red onion — ½
• OleTurk Extra Virgin Olive Oil — 3 tbsp
• Balsamic vinegar — 1 tsp
• Sea salt — to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh basil or mint 

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomatoes
   Wash the tomatoes and pat them dry. Cut them into large, irregular wedges rather than perfect slices — this helps keep their juices inside and gives the salad a more natural texture. Place them in a wide bowl so they are not crowded.
2. Prepare the orange
   Cut off the top and bottom of the orange. Using a sharp knife, remove the peel and white pith. Carefully cut between the membranes to release clean orange segments. Let any juice fall into the bowl — it will become part of the dressing.
3. Slice the onion
   Peel the red onion and slice it very thinly into half-moons. If the onion is strong, rinse the slices briefly under cold water and pat dry. Add them to the bowl, distributing them lightly rather than mixing aggressively.
4. Season lightly
   Sprinkle the salad with a small pinch of sea salt and a little freshly ground black pepper. Season gently at this stage — you can always adjust later.
5. Add the olive oil
   Drizzle OleTurk Premium extra virgin olive oil slowly over the salad, allowing it to coat the tomatoes and oranges naturally. You should see the oil blend with the tomato and orange juices rather than sit on top.
6. Add the acid
   Spoon the balsamic vinegar evenly over the salad. Use just enough to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes and oranges without overpowering them.
7. Combine gently
   Using your hands or two large spoons, gently lift and turn the ingredients once or twice. Avoid over-mixing — the goal is to coat everything lightly while keeping the tomatoes intact.
8. Finish with herbs
   Tear the basil or mint leaves by hand and scatter them over the salad just before serving. This keeps their aroma fresh and prevents bruising.
9. Final taste and serve
   Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while the ingredients are fresh, juicy, and vibrant.