This Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad is a burst of summer on a plate! With juicy tomatoes, zesty garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s super refreshing and easy to make.
You can whip this up in minutes! I love to enjoy it with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. Perfect for summer barbecues or picnics! 🍅🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are the star of this salad. Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes offer great flavor, but any ripe tomatoes will work as long as they’re fresh. If you can’t find heirloom, try Roma or beefsteak tomatoes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor. If raw garlic is too strong for you, consider using roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, you could use a mild vegetable oil, but it won’t have the same depth.
Lemon Juice or Vinegar: Fresh lemon juice is bright and zesty. For a tangy twist, red wine vinegar is excellent as well. Apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar can be fantastic substitutes if needed.
Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that fresh hit of flavor. If you don’t have basil, try substituting with fresh parsley or oregano, although the taste will change a bit.
How Do I Enhance the Flavor of the Salad?
Letting the salad rest after mixing is key. This gives the tomatoes time to release their juices, creating a natural dressing. Aim for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. If you’re short on time, even a few minutes will help.
- Mix the salad gently to avoid smashing the tomatoes.
- Taste before serving; you may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preferences.
- If the tomatoes are tart, add a touch of honey or sugar to balance the flavors.
Don’t forget to serve your salad on a beautiful plate or bowl! A little presentation can elevate the simple dish. Enjoy your summer salad with family and friends!
Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened), cut into wedges
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (if tomatoes are not very sweet)
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend just a few minutes chopping and assembling the ingredients, and then you’ll let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend together. It’s a quick and delightful dish for warm summer days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
Start by washing and drying the tomatoes thoroughly. Cut them into bite-sized wedges and place them in a large bowl. The more colorful the tomatoes, the prettier your salad will be!
2. Add the Garlic:
Now, add the thinly sliced or minced garlic to the bowl with the tomatoes. Garlic adds a delicious aroma and flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
3. Drizzle on the Olive Oil and Lemon Juice:
Next, drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice (or vinegar) over the tomatoes and garlic. This will create a tasty dressing that brings everything together.
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the torn fresh basil leaves into the bowl. Fresh herbs will add a fragrant and vibrant touch to the salad.
5. Season to Taste:
Generously season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste as you go, and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
6. Optional Add-ins:
If you’re using them, toss in the thinly sliced red onion and a small amount of honey or sugar. This will help balance any acidity from the tomatoes.
7. Toss Gently:
Carefully toss all the ingredients until well combined, making sure not to crush the tomatoes. You want the wedges to stay intact for that lovely look!
8. Let it Rest:
Allow the salad to rest for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This soaking time lets the flavors meld beautifully.
9. Optional Spices:
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top just before serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad immediately as a light side dish or with some crusty bread to soak up all the wonderful dressing. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are recommended for their rich flavor, you can use any variety you like—Roma, beefsteak, or even cherry tomatoes will work. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best taste.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the tomatoes may become a bit soggy as they release more juice, so it’s always best to serve it fresh when possible!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, or feta cheese. Just be sure to keep the proportions in mind so you maintain a balanced flavor profile.
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh due to the texture of the tomatoes. However, you can prepare the components (chop the tomatoes, mince garlic, and tear basil) ahead of time and mix them just before serving to retain the freshness.
