This Easy Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad is a burst of summer! With juicy tomatoes, fresh garlic, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s light and refreshing.
It’s perfect for hot days when you want something quick and tasty. I love pairing it with grilled meats or just enjoying it all by itself—so simple and so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are key for this salad. Look for vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor. If those aren’t available, cherry or grape tomatoes can be a great substitute, just cut them in half.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a strong flavor. If raw garlic is too intense for you, try roasted garlic or reduce the amount to one clove. You could also use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch!
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Both give a creamy texture. Greek yogurt is a healthier option and adds protein. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut yogurt or a silken tofu blended until smooth.
Dill: Fresh dill brightens the salad. If you don’t have it on hand, parsley or basil can be used instead, although the flavor will be a bit different.
How Can I Make Sure the Salad Flavors Meld Well?
Letting the salad sit is crucial! This waiting time allows the juices from the tomatoes to combine with the garlic and creamy dressing. Here’s a good way to do it:
- After mixing everything, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, or in the fridge for 30 minutes if you prefer it chilled.
- This time will enhance the taste, and you’ll get a delicious, refreshing mix of flavors!
Enjoy preparing this quick and tasty salad! It really captures the essence of fresh summer produce.
Easy Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad
Ingredients:
- 4-5 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. This includes washing and slicing the tomatoes, mincing the garlic, and mixing everything together. Just allow another 10 minutes for the flavors to meld, which makes the salad even tastier!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Start by washing the tomatoes under cool water. Then, slice them into medium-thin slices. Place the sliced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, take your fresh garlic cloves and finely mince them. Add the minced garlic to the bowl with the tomatoes, mixing gently to distribute the garlic evenly.
3. Mix in the Cream:
Now it’s time for the creamy goodness! Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt. Make sure all the tomato slices are lightly coated with the cream.
4. Add Herbs and Season:
Sprinkle the finely chopped fresh dill over the salad. Then, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper based on your taste preference. This adds flavor and balances the creaminess of the dressing.
5. Toss and Wait:
Gently toss the salad using a large spoon or spatula to combine all ingredients evenly. Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps all the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After letting it sit, it’s time to serve your delicious salad! Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light appetizer. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or fish!
Enjoy this fresh, creamy, and garlicky tomato salad—simple and delicious!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While ripe medium tomatoes are ideal, you can use any variety you prefer. Cherry or grape tomatoes can work well; just slice them in half to mix easily with the other ingredients.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Dill?
No problem! If fresh dill isn’t available, you can substitute it with parsley or basil, though they will give a different flavor profile. Dried dill can also work; just use about 1 teaspoon instead of 1 tablespoon fresh.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 2 days. Just remember, the salad may lose some of its freshness over time, so enjoy it as soon as possible!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can prepare the salad up to a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the sour cream or yogurt just before serving to maintain its creamy texture. If it sits too long, the tomatoes may release excess moisture.
