How do I make a simple and fresh tomato salad?

To make a simple tomato salad, start with ripe tomatoes—cherry tomatoes or vine-ripened work well. Slice or halve them and place in a bowl. Add thinly sliced red onion and fresh basil leaves for flavor. Dress the salad with extra virgin olive oil, a splash of balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately for the best taste and texture. This easy recipe highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes without overpowering their flavor.

What types of tomatoes are best for making a tomato salad?

Cherry tomatoes, heirloom varieties, and Roma tomatoes are ideal for salads. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and bite-sized ease, while heirloom tomatoes offer rich, complex flavors and vibrant colors that enhance presentation. Roma tomatoes have a firmer texture and less juice, which helps keep salads from becoming watery. Combining different types creates a visually appealing and flavorful salad.

Can I make tomato salad ahead of time without it becoming soggy?

To keep tomato salad fresh, avoid dressing it until just before serving. Prepare the tomatoes and other ingredients separately in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, toss with dressing. This prevents the tomatoes from releasing too much juice and maintains a crisp texture. Using thicker, firmer tomatoes also helps reduce sogginess over time.

What are some healthy ingredients to add to a tomato salad?

Adding ingredients like cucumbers, red onions, fresh herbs (basil, parsley, oregano), and a small amount of feta cheese or mozzarella can boost nutrition and flavor. Including healthy fats such as olive oil and nuts like walnuts or pine nuts can also enhance texture and heart-healthy benefits. These components enrich the salad’s taste while keeping it nutritious.

How should I store leftover tomato salad to keep it fresh?

Store leftover tomato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 1–2 days. If the salad is already dressed, expect some liquid buildup—drain excess liquid before serving again. For the best texture, separate any fresh herbs or cheese and add them fresh when serving leftovers. Avoid freezing tomato salad, as tomatoes lose their texture and flavor when frozen.

Tomato Salad Recipes For Fresh Flavorful Meals 2024

Name: Tomato Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1/2 cup chopped red onion; – 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; – 1 pound additional tomatoes, cut into bite-sized wedges; – 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil (or substitutes such as parsley, dill, or chives); – 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; – 2 tablespoons thick balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze; – 1/2 teaspoon flaky or kosher salt, to taste; – Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; – 1/2 English or Persian cucumber, thinly sliced; – About 1 cup mini or cubed mozzarella, or torn mozzarella; – 1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced; – A handful of baby arugula

Description

🍅 This Easy Tomato Salad offers a fresh and vibrant way to enjoy seasonal tomatoes with minimal prep.
🥗 Perfect for light meals or as a colorful side dish, it combines fresh herbs and tangy balsamic for bright flavors.

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup chopped red onion

– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 pound additional tomatoes, cut into bite-sized wedges

– 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil (or substitutes such as parsley, dill, or chives)

– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

– 2 tablespoons thick balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze

– 1/2 teaspoon flaky or kosher salt, to taste

– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– 1/2 English or Persian cucumber, thinly sliced

– About 1 cup mini or cubed mozzarella, or torn mozzarella

– 1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced

– A handful of baby arugula

Instructions

1-Wash and dry the tomatoes and other veggies thoroughly to remove any dirt.

2-Halve the cherry tomatoes and cut the additional tomatoes into bite-sized wedges for even pieces.

3-Chop the red onion and thinly slice the fresh basil or its substitutes.

4-In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, tomato wedges, chopped red onion, and sliced basil.

5-Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar over the mix.

6-Add 1/2 teaspoon of flaky or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then gently toss everything together.

7-If using optional ingredients, add the sliced cucumber, mozzarella, avocado, and baby arugula at this stage and mix lightly.

8-Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to let flavors blend, or chill in the fridge for a cooler version.

Notes

🥄 Use a variety of tomato colors and types for visual appeal and flavor complexity.
🌿 Fresh herbs like basil or dill add bright, aromatic notes to the salad.
🧀 Adding mozzarella or avocado boosts creaminess and makes the salad more filling.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120 per serving
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Tomato Salad, Easy Salad, Fresh Salad, Flavorful Salad