This Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad is perfect for summer! Juicy tomatoes and a hint of garlic mingle with fresh herbs. It’s light and refreshing on hot days!
I love how simple it is to whip up. Just chop the ingredients, toss them together, and you’re ready for a tasty side dish or snack. Yum! 🍅🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes, preferably heirloom or vine-ripened, for the best flavor. If those aren’t available, any good-quality, juicy tomatoes will do. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a deep color.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to this dish. If you’re sensitive to strong flavors, you can reduce the amount or even use roasted garlic for a milder taste. Pre-minced garlic from a jar is convenient, but fresh provides better flavor!
Red Onion: This is optional, but it adds a nice crunch and sharpness. If you prefer something milder, consider using green onions instead. For a sweeter flavor, try a shallot or omit the onion altogether.
Basil: Fresh basil is ideal, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can use dried basil (1 teaspoon). However, remember that fresh will give you a brighter taste. Other herbs like parsley or oregano can also work.
How Do I Make Sure the Flavors in My Salad Meld Together?
Allowing the salad to sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving is important! This waiting period helps the tomatoes release their juices, which blend with the olive oil and vinegar to create a light dressing. It also lets the garlic and herbs infuse their flavors into the tomatoes.
- After tossing the salad, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap to keep the freshness.
- For the best taste, serve it slightly at room temperature; chilling can dull the flavors.
Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes (preferably heirloom or vine-ripened), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
Flavor Boosters:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes chopping and mixing the ingredients, and then just let it rest for 10-15 minutes to bring out the flavors. Super quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Start by washing your tomatoes under cold water. Once clean, chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Make sure to smell those fresh tomatoes—yum!
2. Add Garlic and Onion:
Next, finely mince the garlic and add it to the bowl with the chopped tomatoes. If you like a little more crunch and flavor, throw in the thinly sliced red onion as well.
3. Mix in the Basil:
Add the roughly chopped fresh basil leaves to the bowl. The smell will be amazing! Basil really brightens up the dish.
4. Drizzle and Season:
Now it’s time to add the flavours. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and the red wine vinegar (or lemon juice) over the mixture. Don’t forget to season it with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sugar if you’d like to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
5. Toss Gently:
Gently toss all the ingredients together. Be careful not to crush the tomatoes; you want them to hold their shape and create a beautiful salad.
6. Let it Rest:
Let the salad rest for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you like. It’s now ready for you to enjoy. This fresh and vibrant salad is perfect as a side or light meal!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful summer salad!
FAQ for Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture for this salad, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the tomatoes may lose their texture and the flavors might mellow over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
It’s best to make this salad fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients (chop the tomatoes, garlic, and onions) a few hours in advance. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Basil?
If you don’t have basil, you can use other fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or oregano. Each will bring a different flavor, so choose based on your preference!
