Ripe, juicy tomatoes don't need much to make them sing. A simple dressing of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs are all you need for a summery salad.
Since the salad only has a few ingredients, look for the best tomatoes you can find. When shopping, look for tomatoes that are brightly colored and firm but juicy. Plum tomatoes, cherry, grape, vine, or heirloom tomatoes will work well in this recipe. Feel free to use the best tomatoes you can find, regardless of variety. If using a small type like grape or cherry tomatoes, there's no need to seed them. Simply slice them in half, and you're done.
Tomatoes are low in calories, fat-free, and high in vitamins A, C, and K. They're also known for containing the antioxidant lycopene, a natural pigment that gives tomatoes their signature red color.
You only need a few minutes to make balsamic tomato salad, so it's easy to throw together for a barbecue or a weeknight summer dinner. It also packs well for a picnic or meal on the go, and can be made ahead of time and stashed in the fridge until serving time. Serve with grilled steak, fish, or blackened tofu.
"The balsamic tomato salad was a fast and easy side dish, and the flavors were fantastic. I loved it with fresh herbs and sweet, colorful grape tomatoes—the flavors and bright colors complemented a pasta Alfredo dish perfectly. This salad is a keeper!" —Diana Rattray
Ingredients
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24 ounces ripe tomatoes of choice
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3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
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2 medium cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh oregano, or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, plus fresh sprigs for garnish, optional
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1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh basil, or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, plus fresh leaves for garnish, optional
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Fine salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Steps to Make It
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Gather the ingredients.
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Slice the tomatoes in half and, if using plum or larger tomatoes, core them to remove the seeds. Chop the tomatoes into chunks (whatever size you desire). If using grape, cherry, or another small tomato, cut in half so they will absorb the flavors of the dressing. There's no need to seed them.
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Place the chopped tomatoes in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Toss well.
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Transfer to a serving dish and season with salt and pepper to taste. Or plate the salad individually for your guests and garnish with a sprig of fresh oregano or fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips
- Make this salad ahead of time, and cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or place the salad in an airtight plastic container. When ready, pull it out and serve. Store it in the fridge and enjoy it within 2 to 3 days.
- To avoid chunks of raw garlic in the salad, mince the garlic finely, combine it with a dash of salt, then mash it into a paste by pressing and scraping it with the blunt side of your chef's knife.
Variations
- Use a mix of colorful heirloom tomatoes for a festive-looking salad. Green, orange, yellow, and striped heirloom tomatoes are often available in the summer.
- Replace half of the tomatoes with another summertime veggie, such as diced cucumber.
- Toss with some baby arugula or spinach just before serving, dressing with additional oil and vinegar as needed.
- Top with a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan or toss in small balls (ciliegine) of mozzarella cheese.
- Add a diced ripe avocado just before serving for a creamy element.
- Add some chopped red onion or shallot into the mix.
What to Serve With Tomato Salad
This balsamic tomato salad is a bright and flavorful dish that pairs well with many main dishes. Here are a few ideas for a fabulous lunch or dinner:
- For a satisfying lunch, serve the salad along with a sandwich or panini.
- Pair tomato salad with a pasta dish like Alfredo, cacio e pepe, or carbonara.
- Add the tomato salad to a brunch menu for a bright and flavorful side.
- Top your favorite grilled cheese sandwich or burger with balsamic tomato salad.
- Take the salad to a cookout or potluck supper.
- Spread hummus over a pita and top it with balsamic tomato salad.
- Serve the salad with a slice of focaccia for a simple, tasty lunch or snack.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) | |
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89 | Calories |
7g | Fat |
6g | Carbs |
1g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
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Servings: 4 to 6 | |
Amount per serving | |
Calories | 89 |
% Daily Value* | |
Total Fat 7g | 9% |
Saturated Fat 1g | 5% |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 106mg | 5% |
Total Carbohydrate 6g | 2% |
Dietary Fiber 2g | 6% |
Total Sugars 4g | |
Protein 1g | |
Vitamin C 16mg | 79% |
Calcium 26mg | 2% |
Iron 1mg | 4% |
Potassium 293mg | 6% |
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. |
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