Tomato Salad is a simple yet vibrant dish that celebrates the freshness of ripe tomatoes, accented with red onions, garlic, and fresh herbs. This salad is perfect for a quick side dish or a light lunch, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. With a dressing of extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, this salad is both tangy and refreshing. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make Tomato Salad step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, thyme, or parsley) – see notes for dried herbs
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Chop Tomatoes:
- Chop the 4 ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Halve the grape or cherry tomatoes. Place all the tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Herbs
- Add Red Onion and Garlic:
- Add the thinly sliced red onion and minced garlic to the bowl with the tomatoes.
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Add the chopped fresh herbs to the bowl. If using dried herbs, see the notes for adjustments.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- Mix Dressing:
- In a small bowl or a jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Whisk or shake well to combine.
Step 4: Combine and Season
- Dress Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture in the bowl. Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Season:
- Season the salad with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss again to combine.
Step 5: Serve
- Let Sit:
- Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Tomatoes: Use a mix of different types of tomatoes for added texture and flavor. Heirloom tomatoes are especially delicious in this salad.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, use about 1/2 teaspoon of each herb.
- Dressing: Adjust the amount of red wine vinegar to taste, depending on how tangy you like your dressing.
Variations
Mozzarella Tomato Salad
- Add Mozzarella:
- Add 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or diced mozzarella cheese to the salad for a Caprese-inspired twist.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Add Cucumber:
- Add 1 cup of chopped cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
Avocado Tomato Salad
- Add Avocado:
- Add 1 diced avocado for a creamy texture and extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
With Bread
- With Baguette:
- Serve with slices of crusty baguette to soak up the flavorful dressing.
- With Garlic Bread:
- Pair with garlic bread for a hearty side.
With Proteins
- With Grilled Chicken:
- Serve alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- With Fish:
- Pair with grilled or baked fish for a light and healthy option.
With Other Sides
- With Pasta:
- Serve as a side dish to pasta or other Italian-inspired mains.
- With Rice:
- Pair with a simple rice dish for a balanced meal.
Beverages
- With White Wine:
- Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- With Lemonade:
- Serve with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount to about 1/2 teaspoon of each herb. Fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tomatoes may release some juice, so drain if necessary before serving.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and combine them just before serving. This will keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to this salad? A: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or olives for added flavor and texture.
Q: What if I don’t have red wine vinegar? A: You can substitute with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Tomato Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of ripe tomatoes, red onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, this salad is both simple and delicious. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, Tomato Salad is easy to make and always a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful salad with your family and friends!
