Go Back
+ servings

Tomato Basil Salad

A refreshing and vibrant salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a zesty dressing, perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 medium ripe tomatoes preferably heirloom or vine-ripened, diced
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves torn into smaller pieces
  • 1 medium red onion thinly sliced
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil high quality for best flavor
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey optional, for sweetness
  • ½ teaspoon salt to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Method
 

Prepare the Salad Ingredients
  1. Wash the tomatoes under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Dice them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
  2. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces to release their aromatic oils and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.
  3. Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the mixing bowl. The onion adds a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
  4. Peel the cucumber, dice it, and add it to the bowl. This will add a refreshing crunch to the salad.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined. This emulsifies the dressing, ensuring it coats the salad evenly.
Combine and Serve
  1. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or your hands to ensure all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
  2. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, use the freshest ingredients available. This salad is best served immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. If storing, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!