Tomato Garlic Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish made with juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a simple olive oil dressing. This salad is perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or light summer meal, and pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, or crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Fresh: Uses minimal ingredients for maximum flavor.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes—no cooking required!
- Healthy & Light: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy olive oil.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, topping for bruschetta, or mixed into pasta.
- Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free: A delicious option for any diet.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh tomatoes (cherry, grape, or heirloom)
- Garlic, minced
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt & black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes
- Wash and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces or halves.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine & Toss
- In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, fresh basil (or parsley), and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss gently to coat.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving for extra flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Mozzarella Tomato Salad: Add fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini).
- Mediterranean Style: Toss in olives, feta cheese, and cucumbers.
- Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or finely chopped chili.
- Bruschetta-Style: Spoon onto toasted bread slices.
- Lemon Garlic Dressing: Swap vinegar for fresh lemon juice.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended (tomatoes lose texture).
- Serving Tip: Best enjoyed fresh or slightly chilled.
FAQs
What tomatoes work best?
Cherry, grape, or heirloom tomatoes have the best flavor and texture.
Can I use roasted garlic instead of raw?
Yes! Roasted garlic adds a milder, sweeter flavor.
How do I make the dressing extra flavorful?
Let the dressing sit for 10 minutes before tossing with tomatoes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add fresh herbs just before serving for the best flavor.
What can I serve with this salad?
Grilled chicken, steak, pasta, or crusty bread for dipping.
How do I make it creamy?
Add avocado, burrata, or crumbled goat cheese.
Can I add onions?
Yes! Thinly sliced red onions or shallots work well.
What’s the best vinegar to use?
Red wine vinegar is classic, but balsamic or apple cider vinegar also work.
How do I prevent watery salad?
Salt the tomatoes before mixing, let them drain for a few minutes, then add dressing.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Conclusion
Tomato Garlic Salad is a simple, flavorful, and refreshing dish perfect for any meal. Whether served as a light side, a topping for bruschetta, or mixed into pasta, this salad is easy, healthy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Try it today and enjoy a fresh, garlicky bite in every spoonful!
PrintTomato Garlic Salad
This Tomato Garlic Salad is fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor! Made with juicy tomatoes, garlic, and a simple vinaigrette, it’s perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or light summer salad.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad / Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped (Roma, cherry, or heirloom)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice for brightness)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or mozzarella pearls
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Tomatoes
- Chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.
3️⃣ Toss & Serve
- Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss gently.
- Let sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
🥖 With Bread: Serve over toasted baguette slices for a quick bruschetta.
🥗 As a Side: Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
🍝 With Pasta: Toss with cooked pasta for a fresh tomato pasta salad.