Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my go-to Simple Herb Tomato Salad! It’s like summer on a plate! Whenever I make this salad, I’m instantly transported to my grandmother’s garden, where the juiciest tomatoes grow in abundance. Seriously, there’s nothing like biting into a ripe tomato, bursting with flavor, and pairing it with fresh herbs like basil and parsley. I love how easy this salad is to whip up—honestly, it takes just 10 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights or as a refreshing side for a barbecue. Plus, the vibrant colors make it as beautiful as it is delicious! Trust me, once you try this salad, you’ll want to make it all summer long. So grab those tomatoes, and let’s get started!
Ingredients List
For my Simple Herb Tomato Salad, I like to keep things fresh and simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped: Look for vibrant, juicy tomatoes—heirlooms are my favorite for their rich flavor, but any ripe variety will do!
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh basil adds a delightful aroma and taste. Give it a rough chop to release those fragrant oils!
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: I love using flat-leaf parsley for its freshness, but curly works too! It brightens up the salad beautifully.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: This adds a nice crunch and a bit of zing! Make sure to chop it finely so it mixes well with the other ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It really makes a difference!
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: This adds a lovely sweetness and tang. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste!
- Salt and pepper to taste: A little seasoning elevates the flavors, so don’t skip this step!
These ingredients come together in a symphony of taste, and I promise, you’ll want to savor every bite! Freshness is key, so choose the ripest tomatoes you can find. Now, let’s get to preparing this delightful salad!
How to Prepare Simple Herb Tomato Salad
Alright, let’s dive into making this Simple Herb Tomato Salad! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be enjoying it in no time. Ready? Let’s do this!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab your cutting board and chop the 4 ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. The goal is to have juicy chunks that are easy to eat!
- Next, toss those chopped tomatoes into a large mixing bowl. You’ll want enough room to mix everything without making a mess, trust me!
- Now, add in the 1/4 cup fresh basil, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, and 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion. The colors and aromas are just heavenly!
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. This dressing is simple but oh-so-delicious!
- Pour that lovely dressing over your salad mix. Make sure to get every last drop in there—it’s where all the flavor comes from!
- Now, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; seasoning really brings out the freshness of the tomatoes.
- Finally, toss everything gently with a spoon or spatula. You want to coat those tomatoes without mushing them up!
- For the best flavor, serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let those flavors mingle.
And there you have it! A gorgeous, fresh salad that’s ready to impress. Enjoy every bite of this summery delight!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the deliciousness, it’s good to keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’m sharing some typical estimates here, don’t take them as gospel!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
So, whether you’re enjoying this salad as a light meal or a refreshing side dish, you can feel good about the wholesome ingredients fueling your day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes! It’s perfect for those last-minute meal preps when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
- Fresh Ingredients: With ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs, every bite bursts with flavor. You can’t beat the taste of fresh produce!
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even toss it with some grilled chicken for a heartier meal. It’s so adaptable!
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients, this salad is a delicious way to get your veggies in without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for Summer: It screams summer with its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors—ideal for barbecues, picnics, or just a sunny day on the patio.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or veggies! It’s a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make your Simple Herb Tomato Salad, let me share some of my best tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Use the freshest ingredients: This salad shines brightest with the ripest, juiciest tomatoes. When you’re at the store or farmers market, don’t be afraid to squeeze them gently—just a little! You want them to feel a tad soft and fragrant.
- Experiment with herbs: While basil and parsley are my go-tos, feel free to get adventurous! Oregano, chives, or even dill can add a unique twist to the flavor profile. Just remember to chop them roughly to release their wonderful aromas!
- Seasoning is key: Don’t skip the salt and pepper! A little seasoning elevates the taste of the fresh ingredients. Start with a pinch, taste, and adjust as needed. It’s all about balance!
- Let it marinate: If you have time, letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to mingle and develop. It’s like a flavor party in a bowl!
- Mix gently: When you’re tossing the salad, be gentle! You want to combine everything without squishing those beautiful tomato chunks. A light hand goes a long way!
- Serve fresh: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a day. Just know that the tomatoes may release some juice, so it might get a bit watery. A quick toss before serving should do the trick!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up a delicious, refreshing salad that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy the process and the vibrant flavors!
Variations
One of the best things about my Simple Herb Tomato Salad is how easy it is to customize! You can switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste. Here are some delicious variations to consider:
- Add other vegetables: Toss in some diced cucumbers or bell peppers for an extra crunch! They add a refreshing twist and a pop of color.
- Mix in different herbs: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding fresh oregano or dill. Each herb brings its own unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
- Include cheese: Crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella can elevate the salad to a whole new level! The creaminess pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and herbs.
- Spice it up: For a little kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It’s a fun way to heat things up!
- Incorporate grains: Toss in some cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier salad. It’s perfect as a filling lunch or light dinner option.
- Make it a pasta salad: Mix in some cooked pasta for a delightful twist! This turns the salad into a more substantial dish, ideal for potlucks or gatherings.
- Use a different dressing: While I love the olive oil and balsamic vinegar combo, you can experiment with lemon juice or a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing change.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas! The beauty of this salad is its versatility, so let your creativity shine while you make it your own. Enjoy the delicious journey!
Serving Suggestions
Alright, my friend, let’s talk about how to elevate your Simple Herb Tomato Salad into a complete meal that’ll impress everyone at the table! This salad is bursting with fresh flavors, so pairing it with the right dishes can really enhance the experience. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Grilled Chicken: A juicy grilled chicken breast drizzled with a little extra olive oil and lemon juice complements the salad perfectly. The smoky flavor of the chicken pairs beautifully with those fresh tomatoes!
- Fish Tacos: If you’re in the mood for something light, serve it alongside some zesty fish tacos. The bright flavors of the salad will cut through the richness of the fish wonderfully.
- Pasta Dishes: This salad makes a fantastic side for any pasta dish—especially something creamy or cheesy! Think fettuccine Alfredo or a classic spaghetti with marinara. The freshness of the salad balances the richness perfectly.
- Bruschetta: Serve your salad with a side of bruschetta topped with garlic, olive oil, and more tomatoes! It’s a lovely way to maintain that fresh, vibrant theme.
- Quiche: A slice of quiche—whether it’s classic Lorraine or a veggie-packed version—pairs beautifully with this salad. The lightness of the salad contrasts nicely with the hearty quiche.
- Cheese Platter: Create a fun cheese platter with a variety of cheeses, olives, and crackers. The salad adds a refreshing touch to the richness of the cheeses, making for a perfect appetizer or light meal!
Whatever you choose to pair it with, your Simple Herb Tomato Salad is sure to shine as a vibrant and delicious addition to your meal. Enjoy experimenting with these combinations and delight in the fresh flavors coming together on your plate!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve made this delicious Simple Herb Tomato Salad, you might be wondering how to store any leftovers, right? I totally get it! This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have some left, here’s how to keep it at its best:
- Refrigerate promptly: If you have any leftovers, make sure to store them in an airtight container. This will help keep the salad fresh and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
- Consume within a day: For the best flavor and texture, try to eat the salad within 24 hours. The tomatoes can release moisture over time, making it a bit watery, but a quick toss before serving will help!
- Don’t freeze: I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad. The tomatoes and fresh herbs don’t fare well in the freezer, and you’ll lose that beautiful texture and flavor.
- Serve cold: When you’re ready to enjoy the salad again, simply take it out of the fridge and give it a gentle toss. You can also add a little drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar to refresh the flavors if needed!
- Adjust seasoning: After refrigeration, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper can really bring those flavors back to life!
With these tips, your leftover Simple Herb Tomato Salad can still shine bright on your plate! Enjoy every last bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family if you’re feeling generous!
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Simple Herb Tomato Salad: 7 Steps to a Fresh Delight
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and easy salad featuring ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the tomatoes and place them in a bowl.
- Add the basil, parsley, and red onion to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or chives.
- Can be served as a side dish or light meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Simple Herb Tomato Salad