Grilled Red Pepper, Sweet Onion and Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 2 red or yellow bell peppers
- 2 sweet white onions, such as Maui, Vidalia or Walla Walla, cut into rounds 3/4 inch thick
- 4 large red or yellow tomatoes, about 2 lb. total
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for coating
- 1 bunch fresh basil, stemmed, coarsely chopped if desired
For the garlic-balsamic vinaigrette:
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Directions
Prepare a charcoal or gas grill for direct grilling over high heat, or preheat an indoor electric grill. Oil the grill rack.
Put the bell peppers, onion rounds and tomatoes in a bowl and coat them with oil.
Grill the peppers directly over high heat, turning to char and blister them on all sides, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a paper bag, close the bag and let cool for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, grill the onion rounds, turning once, until grill-marked and partly tender, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board. Grill the tomatoes, turning often, until grill-marked, 3 to 4 minutes. Do not overcook. Transfer to the cutting board.
Peel the peppers and cut open to remove the seeds and stems. Chop the peppers coarsely and mound on a platter. Coarsely chop the onions, then core and chop the tomatoes and add them to the platter. Scatter the basil leaves on top of the vegetables.
To make the vinaigrette, combine the garlic and vinegar in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in the olive oil. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well. Season with salt and pepper and serve. Serves 4.
