Description
Fresh, juicy, and bursting with flavor this tomato salad is summer in a bowl! A vibrant, healthy, and easy-to-make dish perfect for warm days or any time you crave something light and refreshing.
Ingredients
-
4–5 ripe tomatoes (any kind: heirloom, beefsteak, cherry, or Roma), sliced or chopped
-
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
-
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
-
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
-
1 clove garlic, finely minced
-
1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, for balance)
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley
Optional Add-ins
-
Fresh mozzarella balls or crumbled feta cheese
-
Avocado slices
-
Cucumber rounds
Instructions
Start by selecting your tomatoes. The key to a flavorful Delicious Marinated Tomato Salad lies in the quality and ripeness of the tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly soft to the touch, indicating peak ripeness. Wash them thoroughly, then slice or chop depending on your presentation preference. Heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes are great for slicing, while cherry or grape tomatoes can be halved.
Thinly slice ¼ of a red onion. If you’re sensitive to the sharp bite of raw onion, soak the slices in cold water for 5–10 minutes to mellow their flavor, then drain and pat dry. This keeps the salad fresh and balanced without overpowering the tomatoes.
In a small mixing bowl or jar, combine the olive oil and vinegar. Add in the finely minced garlic, the sugar or honey (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk well until the dressing emulsifies and the ingredients are fully blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—this is your chance to fine-tune the flavor balance between tangy, sweet, and savory.
Place the sliced tomatoes and onions into a large salad bowl. Pour the dressing evenly over the vegetables and toss gently using a spoon or clean hands. Be careful not to break the tomatoes—gentle tossing ensures even coating without bruising.
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes. This marination step allows the tomatoes to absorb the dressing, intensifying their natural sweetness and creating a more cohesive, layered flavor. Just before serving, sprinkle over the chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and a fresh herbal note.
If desired, top with mozzarella balls, feta crumbles, avocado slices, or cucumber rounds just before serving.
Notes
-
This salad is best served fresh at room temperature.
-
The flavors continue to develop as it sits, so if you’re preparing ahead, allow it to marinate in the fridge for up to a few hours, but serve at room temp for optimal taste.
-
Avoid over-marinating overnight with cheese or avocado added, as these ingredients can break down and affect texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sodium: 150mg
- Protein: 2g
Keywords: #