Ingredients
1.5 lbs (about 680g) assorted ripe tomatoes (heirloom, cherry, grape, Roma), various colors and sizes
6 oz (170g) high-quality canned tuna in olive oil, drained (reserve 1-2 tbsp oil)
1/2 cup (120ml) good quality mayonnaise
2 tbsp capers, drained, plus extra for garnish
2 anchovy fillets (optional, but highly recommended for umami depth)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the tomatoes. Wash and thoroughly dry all tomatoes. For larger tomatoes, slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds or wedges. Halve or quarter smaller cherry or grape tomatoes. Arrange the prepared tomatoes artfully on a large serving platter, mixing colors and shapes for visual appeal.
Step 2: Make the tonnato sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of drained capers, anchovy fillets (if using), fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of the reserved tuna oil or a good quality extra virgin olive oil. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a tiny splash of water or more lemon juice, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a pourable, yet thick, consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the platter. Spoon or generously drizzle the prepared tonnato sauce over the arranged tomatoes on the platter. Ensure an even coating, but don't worry about perfection – a rustic drizzle often looks best for a Tomato Tonnato Platter.
Step 4: Garnish and chill. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley or basil. For an extra touch, you can add a few more capers and a final drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Chill the Tomato Tonnato Platter in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve. Present your stunning Tomato Tonnato Platter as an elegant appetizer or a light meal. Serve with crusty bread or focaccia for scooping up the delicious sauce and tomatoes.
Notes
For the best flavor, make sure to use a variety of high-quality, ripe, in-season tomatoes. The tonnato sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the platter just before serving for freshest results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg