Salad

Easy Tomato Salad Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Name: Easy Tomato Salad Recipe – Freshly Ingredients
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 pound mixed ripe tomatoes; ½ cup finely chopped red onion; ¼ cup freshly sliced basil ribbons; 2 tablespoons cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons rich balsamic vinegar; Freshly cracked black pepper; ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt or kosher salt; 1 ripe avocado; ½ English cucumber; A handful of baby arugula leaves; 1 torn fresh mozzarella ball; 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts; 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Charlotte Shapiro September 1, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 20 mins

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When it comes to a fresh and vibrant tomato salad, it’s like a painter working with the perfect blend of colors. You might pair this dish with grilled chicken for a hearty meal or serve it alongside roasted salmon for a delicious seafood combo.

The tangy zest of the salad complements rich flavors nicely. For vegetarian options, adding it next to creamy risotto or a classic Caprese dish can elevate both plates. If you want to make it a real feast, consider serving garlic bread on the side. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Let’s be honest; sometimes, you just crave something refreshing and simple, right? This easy tomato salad recipe delivers on both fronts. Growing up in an Italian household, I often saw tomatoes highlighted, fresh from the garden. This dish reminds me of those sunny afternoons, enjoying a meal in the warm breeze. It’s more than just a salad—it’s a celebration of summer bounty.

You see, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a barbecue with friends, this tomato salad is your go-to solution. It’s straight to the point, quick to prepare, and oh-so-satisfying. With just a handful of high-quality ingredients, you can whip up something that looks as good as it tastes. And it’s versatile! Swap in your favorite additions or keep it classic, either way, it shines.

What is Easy Tomato Salad Recipe?

Simply put, this easy tomato salad recipe combines fresh tomatoes, herbs, and a little drizzle of olive oil. It’s light, bright, and bursting with flavor. You can toss it together in minutes, making it perfect for any occasion. Grab your freshest tomatoes and let’s get to it!

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Freshness of Ingredients:
Using ripe and seasonal tomatoes makes all the difference. They serve as the heart of the salad, contributing juicy bursts of flavor. Slice into a fresh tomato, and you’ll taste the summer sunshine.

2. Simple Steps:
Preparation is straightforward. You can have this salad prepped and ready before your pot of water boils for pasta. Trust me; even a novice in the kitchen can master this dish in no time.

3. Versatility:
The tomato salad is effortlessly adaptable. Include your favorite herbs, or top it with sliced avocado, cucumbers, or cheese—whatever tickles your fancy. You can personalize it without losing its essence.

4. Nutritional Benefits:
Tomatoes are packed with vitamins, particularly vitamin C and potassium. By keeping the ingredients simple, you maintain their health benefits without added preservatives. It’s guilt-free indulgence at its finest.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Easy Tomato Salad Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

1 pound mixed ripe tomatoes (1 large, 2 medium, or 3 small, cut into bite-sized wedges)
1 pint (12 ounces / 2 cups) sweet cherry tomatoes (halved)
½ cup finely chopped red onion (from about ½ small onion)
¼ cup freshly sliced basil ribbons (or whole basil leaves; you can swap with parsley, dill, or chives)
2 tablespoons cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons rich balsamic vinegar (or a drizzle of balsamic glaze)
Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
½ teaspoon flaky sea salt or kosher salt (to taste)

Flavorful Optional Add-Ins:

1 ripe avocado (sliced or diced)
½ English cucumber (or 1 Persian cucumber, thinly sliced)
A handful of baby arugula leaves (for a peppery kick)
1 torn fresh mozzarella ball (or mini mozzarella pearls)
2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (for that nutty crunch)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (to brighten things up)

How To Make This Easy Tomato Salad?

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

First things first, line up your ingredients. Grab ripe tomatoes from the market—trust me, they’re the stars here. Fresh herbs are your supporting actors, enhancing every bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash and cut your tomatoes into wedges. The mix of different varieties adds color and dimension. For the cherry tomatoes, simply slice them in half. The more, the merrier!

Step 3: Chop the Onion

Next, finely chop the red onion. It adds a wonderful bite to the salad. To soften the flavor a little, you could soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes. This step is optional but recommended for those sensitive to stronger onion tastes.

Step 4: Slice Your Herbs

If you’re using basil (or any other fresh herbs), slice them into ribbons. Keep it light and airy. You’re aiming for a salad, not a minestrone soup, right?

Step 5: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl

In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced cherry tomatoes, chopped onions, and herbs. Toss them gently. You want them mingling without turning into mush.

Step 6: Dress the Salad

Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper. This is where the magic starts. It’s simple, but the right amount of oil and vinegar highlights the natural flavors. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This gives time for the flavors to meld. It’s like letting a fine wine breathe!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Lastly, transfer your salad into a serving bowl. If you’ve chosen any optional add-ins—avocado slices, cucumbers, or mozzarella—gently place them on top. Voilà! You’ve created a beautiful dish that looks as delightful as it tastes.

Tips for the Perfect Salad

Choose ripe tomatoes: This is key. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and give slightly to gentle pressure. They should have a deep color and fragrance.
Use fresh herbs: The fresher, the better. They brighten the dish and add layers of flavor. Dried herbs can’t quite compare.
Keep it cold: Serve the salad chilled. If you have time, refrigerate it for about an hour before serving. It makes a difference.
Experiment with add-ins: Don’t hesitate to customize! Add roasted veggies, different cheese, or nuts. Make it yours.
Make it ahead of time: This salad lasts well in the fridge for a day. Brian and I love prepping it the night before a gathering; it tastes even better after the flavors meld together.

Nutrition Information

A serving of this easy tomato salad provides:

Calories: Approximately 150
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fats: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
Potassium: 10% Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values will vary based on add-ins and portion sizes.

How to Store The Leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which I doubt, because it’s that good), you can store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The tomatoes will release juices, so the salad will become a bit wetter over time. The flavor actually improves, thanks to all those fantastic ingredients mingling together!

Pro Tip:

If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider leaving off any added ingredients like avocado or mozzarella until just before serving.

Recommended Side Dishes for Easy Tomato Salad Recipe

Listed below are fantastic side dishes to complement your tomato salad:

1. Grilled Chicken:
A light herb-marinated chicken pairs wonderfully. The grilled flavors mesh well with the freshness of the salad. Plus, it adds a satisfying protein component.

2. Roasted Salmon:
The richness of roasted or grilled salmon beautifully contrasts with the acidity of the salad. A lemony finish on the salmon ties the meal together nicely.

3. Garlic Bread:
Nothing says comfort like crispy garlic bread. Serve it warm for a delightful crunch between bites of enriching salad.

4. Pasta:
Why not serve it with a side of pasta? A light lemon garlic spaghetti or even a classic pesto pasta adds to the Italian flair.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

Did your pantry let you down? Here are some substitutes you can use:

1. Tomatoes:
If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes work in a pinch. Just drain them well.

2. Red Onion:
Shallots or green onions give a milder flavor if you want something less pungent than red onion.

3. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil:
You can use any light oil instead, but olive oil is preferred for its health benefits and flavor.

4. Balsamic Vinegar:
If you need a substitute, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar is an excellent option, though with a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, tasty tomato salad that holds a special place in my heart. This dish embodies summer freshness and reminds me of shared meals and laughter with friends and family. You can enjoy it on its own, or use it as a side to elevate any dish.

Give it a try, and I promise, whether you’re at a picnic or having a quiet dinner at home, this salad will make you smile. So, gather these fresh ingredients, and let the culinary magic begin! Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Easy Tomato Salad Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Author: Charlotte Shapiro Cuisine: Mediterranean Courses: Salad

Prep Time 20 mins Total Time 20 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 150

Description

You see, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a barbecue with friends, this tomato salad is your go-to solution. It’s straight to the point, quick to prepare, and oh-so-satisfying. With just a handful of high-quality ingredients, you can whip up something that looks as good as it tastes. And it’s versatile! Swap in your favorite additions or keep it classic, either way, it shines.