Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe

There’s something absolutely irresistible about a Tomato Garlic Salad—it’s simple, fresh, and packed with vibrant flavors that make every bite feel like a celebration. Imagine juicy, ripe tomatoes bursting with flavor, paired with the bold zing of garlic and complemented by a splash of olive oil and tangy vinegar. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to eat it every day, and honestly, once you try it, you’ll see why!

This salad is not just about the tomatoes (though they’re certainly the star of the show). It’s about the garlic, that earthy, savory touch that elevates everything to another level. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, as a light lunch, or as a side dish for a family dinner, this Tomato Garlic Salad will become your go-to whenever you crave something fresh and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love Tomato Garlic Salad

Here’s why this salad is the perfect addition to any meal:

Simple & Fresh Ingredients

You don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients to make this dish. With just a few staple ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, you can whip up a salad that tastes like it came from a five-star restaurant.

Bold Flavor

The combo of ripe tomatoes and fresh garlic gives this salad a punch of flavor that’s both refreshing and savory. It’s the kind of salad that stands out in any meal.

Versatile

This Tomato Garlic Salad pairs beautifully with so many dishes, from grilled meats and fish to pasta or bread. You can even enjoy it on its own for a light, healthy meal!

Quick & Easy

With only a few minutes of prep, you can have a fresh and flavorful salad ready to go. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!

Ingredients

Let’s break down the ingredients that make this Tomato Garlic Salad come together:

For the Salad:

• Fresh Tomatoes: Go for ripe, juicy tomatoes. Roma, heirloom, or vine-ripened tomatoes are all perfect choices. Their natural sweetness and acidity create the perfect base.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds that bold, savory kick. You can use raw garlic for a sharp bite or lightly sauté it for a milder flavor.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings richness and depth to the salad, helping to bind all the flavors together.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that balances the tomatoes and garlic.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Fresh herbs bring an aromatic finish to the salad, brightening up the overall flavor and adding color.
• Salt and Pepper: A pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper are essential to bring all the flavors to life.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get to the good stuff—how to make this refreshing Tomato Garlic Salad!

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by washing and slicing your tomatoes. Cut them into wedges or cubes—whatever shape you prefer. If you’re using larger tomatoes, consider removing the seeds to avoid excess liquid.

Step 2: Mince the Garlic

Mince the garlic finely or slice it thinly, depending on how intense you want the garlic flavor to be. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can lightly sauté the garlic in a bit of olive oil for a few seconds until it becomes fragrant, but raw garlic will give it more punch.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix everything together, ensuring that the tomatoes are evenly coated in the dressing.

Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs

Finish the salad by sprinkling chopped fresh basil or parsley on top. The herbs add a lovely fresh flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Let the salad sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve it as a refreshing side dish or even on its own with some crusty bread for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 150
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 25%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 4%
Potassium: 400mg

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Tomato Garlic Salad

While this salad is fantastic on its own, here are a few ideas for serving:

• With Grilled Meats: This salad is the perfect accompaniment to grilled steak, chicken, or fish. The freshness of the tomatoes balances out the richness of the meat.
• On Toast: Spoon the salad onto toasted bread for a quick and satisfying appetizer or snack.
• Pasta Side: Pair it with pasta dishes, particularly those with a rich tomato or creamy sauce, for a fresh contrast.
• Add Cheese: Crumble feta cheese or sprinkle some shaved parmesan on top for added richness and flavor.

Additional Tips

• Make it Vegan: This salad is naturally vegan, making it a great option for plant-based eaters.
• Swap the Vinegar: If balsamic vinegar isn’t your thing, try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different twist.
• Chill It: For an extra-refreshing experience, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a crowd, just double the recipe! This salad is always a hit.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes?
A1: Yes, cherry tomatoes work perfectly in this salad. They’re naturally sweet and bite-sized, making them a great option.

Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A2: This salad is best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and toss them together just before serving.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
A3: Absolutely! Cucumbers, red onions, or even bell peppers would add extra crunch and flavor to this salad.

Q4: What other herbs can I use?
A4: You can substitute the basil or parsley with oregano, thyme, or dill, depending on your taste preferences.

Q5: Can I use a different type of oil?
A5: Yes, you can swap the olive oil with avocado oil or any other mild oil of your choice. However, olive oil adds a distinctive flavor that works perfectly in this salad.

Q6: Can I make this salad spicy?
A6: Of course! Add some red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers for a spicy kick.

Q7: Can I serve this salad with a dip?
A7: Definitely! Serve it with a yogurt-based dip or hummus for a fun and light appetizer.

Q8: Can I store leftover tomato salad?
A8: Tomato salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. The tomatoes may release some juice, but it’s still tasty!

Q9: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
A9: Fresh tomatoes give the best flavor and texture, but in a pinch, canned tomatoes can work. Just make sure to drain them well before using.

Q10: Can I add cheese to this salad?
A10: Yes! Feta, mozzarella, or parmesan all make excellent additions. Add it after tossing the salad for a creamy or salty finish.

Conclusion

This Tomato Garlic Salad is everything you want in a dish—simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. It’s quick to make and pairs well with so many meals, but it’s so good on its own, too. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this salad will definitely steal the show. Enjoy every bite!

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