Herby Tomato Salad With Tamarind-Maple Dressing

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Start the salad: Cut the tomatoes into different shapes — this creates different textures and visual interest — and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with a big pinch of salt, and set in the sink to drain as you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Step 2

   Place a strainer over a heatproof bowl. Line a baking sheet or large plate with paper towels.

3. Step 3

   Prepare the fried shallots: Add oil and shallots to a medium saucepan, and place over low heat. Bring oil to a simmer, stirring shallots with a fork to separate the rings. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until the shallots are light golden brown, watching them closely, as they will brown quickly toward the end of cooking. (They'll continue to cook after out of the oil.)

4. Step 4

   Remove the shallots to the strainer to drain, then transfer them to the paper towels. Season with salt and allow to cool. Reserve the oil. Shallots can be fried 5 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

5. Step 5

   Prepare the dressing: Whisk together all the ingredients.

6. Step 6

   Assemble the salad: Combine the tomatoes, two-thirds of the herbs and scallions, and half the dressing. Season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine. To finish, top with remaining dressing, a drizzle of the shallot cooking oil and the rest of the herbs and scallions, then finally with the fried shallots. (Reserve remaining shallot oil for other uses, like vinaigrettes, stir-fries and soups.)