Description
Fresh Tomato Salad is a vibrant and easy-to-make side dish featuring ripe garden tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sharp red onion, fresh basil, and parsley tossed in a light and tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfectly refreshing and bursting with summer flavors, this salad complements grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches beautifully.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Arrange the cut tomatoes, cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, torn basil leaves, and chopped parsley in a large serving bowl to form the base of the salad.
- Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until fully emulsified and smooth.
- Toss the salad: Pour the freshly made vinaigrette over the arranged vegetables and herbs. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat the salad evenly with the dressing.
- Rest before serving: Allow the salad to rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature so the flavors can meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use a variety of heirloom tomatoes to add vibrant color and enhanced flavor complexity.
- Adding crumbled feta cheese or fresh mozzarella balls creates a creamy and delicious variation.
- This salad is best enjoyed the same day it is made for optimal freshness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
