Tomato Salad

There’s a certain magic in simplicity, and this tomato salad captures it beautifully. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, it transforms ripe tomatoes into a dish bursting with vibrant flavors and natural sweetness.

The secret lies in the details: salt draws out the tomatoes’ juices, creating a luscious dressing when combined with lemon, shallots, and olive oil. Each bite is a perfect harmony of tangy, savory, and herbal notes.

Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light side dish, this salad highlights the beauty of seasonal produce. It’s quick, effortless, and an irresistible celebration of nature’s bounty.

Tomato Salad Ingredients: A Symphony of Fresh Flavors

• Ripe Tomatoes: The heart of this salad, bursting with natural sweetness and vibrant juices that anchor every bite.
• Shallot or Red Onion: Adds a subtle, zesty kick that enhances the tomatoes’ depth.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: A fragrant touch of herbal elegance, tying the flavors together seamlessly.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Smooth and velvety, it enriches the dressing and elevates the dish.
• Lemon Juice: A bright, citrusy splash that balances richness with refreshing tang.

Tomato Salad Recipe Tips

1. Use the Ripest Tomatoes Possible
   For the best flavor, choose tomatoes that are at their peak ripeness. Vine-ripened tomatoes or heirloom varieties often provide the richest flavor, and they’ll release the most juice when seasoned with salt. If tomatoes are too firm or under-ripe, they won’t produce the vibrant, juicy dressing that makes this salad shine.
2. Let It Rest for Extra Flavor
   While this salad is delicious right away, letting it sit for 15-30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld. The salt helps release the tomatoes’ juices, which then combines with the lemon, olive oil, and shallot, creating a naturally sweet and tangy dressing that enhances the overall flavor.
3. Customize with Fresh Herbs
   Though basil is a classic pairing, you can experiment with other herbs like mint or parsley to give the salad a unique twist. Fresh herbs add brightness and complexity, so don’t hesitate to play with what’s available or in season to create your perfect version.

Pin

What to Serve with Tomato Salad

1. Grilled Chicken or Fish
   This tomato salad is a light, fresh side that pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken or fish. The tangy dressing complements the smoky flavor of grilled meats, making it a great addition to your summer BBQ or casual weeknight meal.
2. Crusty Bread
   A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices from this salad. Whether you serve it alongside a charcuterie board or enjoy it with the salad alone, the bread will help balance the fresh, bright flavors and make the meal feel more substantial.
3. Pasta or Risotto
   This tomato salad also pairs beautifully with pasta or risotto. Its light, refreshing taste contrasts well with the richness of a creamy risotto or a hearty pasta dish, making it a versatile side for a variety of Italian-inspired meals.

Pin

FAQ

1. Can I make this tomato salad ahead of time?
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Chop the tomatoes and prepare the dressing with the shallots and lemon juice, but wait until just before serving to add the basil and olive oil to ensure the salad remains fresh and vibrant.

2. Can I use different types of tomatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While any ripe tomato will work, heirloom tomatoes are especially great for this salad due to their flavor variety and juiciness. Cherry or grape tomatoes can also be used for a sweeter, more bite-sized option.

3. How can I make this salad spicier?
For a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes to the dressing or mixing in a small amount of finely chopped chili pepper. This adds a spicy kick that pairs well with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the acidity of the lemon.

4. Can I substitute the olive oil with another type of oil?
If you prefer, you can use a different mild-flavored oil, such as avocado or grapeseed oil. However, extra-virgin olive oil is ideal for this recipe due to its rich flavor and smooth texture, which complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Pin

Tomato Salad

This refreshing tomato salad highlights the natural flavor of ripe tomatoes, enhanced by a few simple ingredients. Salt plays a crucial role by drawing out the tomatoes’ juices, intensifying their taste and creating a flavorful base for the dressing. The mingling of these juices with shallot, olive oil, and lemon juice results in a dressing that is so delicious it becomes the main reason to prepare this salad.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Ingredients

  

• 1½ tablespoons finely chopped shallot or red onion
• Juice from half a lemon approximately 1½ tablespoons
• 1½ to 2 pounds ripe tomatoes about 3 large or 2 pints
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 20 basil leaves torn if large

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the shallot and lemon juice. Stir well and set aside while preparing the tomatoes.
• Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl as you go. Season generously with salt and mix gently to combine.
• Slowly stir in the olive oil, followed by the torn basil leaves. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, if desired.
• Serve immediately, or allow the salad to rest for up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to develop.

Keyword Tomato Salad