Best Summer Tomato Salad

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a summer tomato salad to brighten up any meal. It’s fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor—everything you need to celebrate the season’s juiciest, sweetest tomatoes. Every time I make this salad, I can’t help but smile. Maybe it’s the combination of ripe heirloom tomatoes, the zingy dressing, or the crunch of fresh herbs. Whatever it is, it’s a dish that screams summer.

I discovered this recipe one warm afternoon while trying to find a light and refreshing side dish to pair with grilled chicken. As soon as I took the first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. It’s super simple to prepare, but the flavors are anything but basic. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a salad that will have everyone asking for the recipe. It’s my go-to for BBQs, family dinners, and pretty much every gathering during tomato season.

What makes this salad stand out? It’s all about the quality of the tomatoes. If you can find them at a local farmers’ market, even better. The better your tomatoes, the better your salad will be. Trust me, this one is a winner every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make: This salad doesn’t require any complicated techniques or special kitchen gadgets. You just need a good knife and a cutting board, and you’re ready to go.
2. Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: The highlight of this dish is, of course, the tomatoes. This recipe calls for the juiciest, ripest tomatoes of summer—heirloom varieties if you can find them. The other ingredients—fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy vinaigrette—just elevate it to the next level.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors to your liking. Want to add a bit more sweetness? Toss in some fresh peaches or strawberries. Want more crunch? Add some roasted almonds or toasted pine nuts.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, packing a picnic, or just want a simple yet delicious side, this tomato salad fits the bill. It’s light, refreshing, and can be served as an appetizer or alongside any main dish.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people

Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 5g
Carbs: 8g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g

Ingredients

Tomato Salad:

• 4-5 large ripe tomatoes (preferably heirloom)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or burrata)
• 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves (torn into smaller pieces)
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by washing and drying your tomatoes. Then, slice them into thick wedges or rounds—however you like. If you’re using heirloom tomatoes, you’ll be treated to a beautiful mix of colors, from deep red to golden yellow, which adds so much visual appeal to the salad. After slicing, arrange them on a large serving platter or in a bowl. I like to make sure the tomatoes are the star of the show, so I try to arrange them in a way that shows off their vibrant colors.

Tip: If you’re looking for the juiciest tomatoes, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours before using them. This enhances their sweetness and juiciness!

Step 2: Add the Mozzarella and Onion

Next, take your fresh mozzarella and break it into bite-sized pieces, tearing it gently with your hands. It adds that creamy texture that pairs so wonderfully with the juicy tomatoes. Scatter the mozzarella over the tomatoes.

Now, thinly slice the red onion. I usually soak the onion slices in a little cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This mellows out their sharpness, making them a little sweeter and less overpowering. Once they’re ready, sprinkle them over the tomatoes and mozzarella.

Tip: If you’re not a fan of raw red onion, you can quickly pickle the onion slices in a mixture of vinegar, water, and a pinch of sugar for a sweet and tangy kick.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

For the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The balsamic vinegar adds a lovely depth of flavor, and the Dijon mustard gives the dressing a nice tang.

Tip: If you’re a fan of garlic, feel free to add a minced clove into the dressing for a garlicky punch!

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss everything together gently. You want the tomatoes, mozzarella, and onions to be evenly coated, but without mashing the tomatoes. Lastly, sprinkle the torn basil leaves over the top and finish with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

How to Serve

This salad is incredibly versatile, and you can serve it in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As a side dish: Pair it with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. It’s the perfect accompaniment to anything you’re cooking on the BBQ.
• As a main: Add some cooked quinoa or farro for a light, healthy main dish.
• On bread: Spoon the salad over a slice of toasted baguette or focaccia for an easy appetizer or snack.
• With a drizzle of balsamic glaze: For a little extra sweetness and tang, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving.

Additional Tips

1. Use the best tomatoes: The flavor of this salad really depends on the quality of your tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are ripe, juicy, and bursting with flavor. If you can, visit a local farmer’s market to get heirloom varieties for the best results.
2. Don’t skip the basil: Fresh basil adds a vibrant, aromatic flavor that truly elevates this salad. You can also try other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a different twist.
3. Season to taste: The key to a great tomato salad is seasoning. Make sure to taste the salad before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar to your liking.
4. Chill before serving: Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you have the time, chill it for 30 minutes to an hour for an extra refreshing experience.
5. Mix up the dressing: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a bit of lemon juice, balsamic reduction, or even a splash of white wine vinegar for a unique twist on the dressing.

Recipe Variations

1. Add Avocado: For a creamy, buttery addition, cube up an avocado and toss it in with the tomatoes. The richness of the avocado balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
2. Spicy Tomato Salad: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salad for a little heat. The spiciness will contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes.
3. Grilled Veggies: For a heartier salad, you can grill some zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers and toss them in with the tomatoes. The smoky flavor from the grill adds depth to the dish.
4. Cheese Variations: Switch up the mozzarella for crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy option. Both pair wonderfully with tomatoes and basil.
5. Add Protein: If you want to make this salad a full meal, top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein. It’s a great way to turn a simple salad into something more filling.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve this salad alongside roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Beverages: Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy cocktail like a mojito or gin and tonic.
• For Kids: Serve this salad on its own as a side or pair it with simple grilled chicken tenders for a healthy, kid-friendly meal.

Freezing and Storage

This salad is best served fresh, as the tomatoes can become mushy over time. However, if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. The tomatoes will start to lose their texture after a day or so, but it will still taste good!
• Freezing: I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad due to the tomatoes’ high water content, which can make them mushy once thawed.

Special Equipment

• Sharp Knife: To slice the tomatoes and mozzarella evenly.
• Whisk: To make the dressing and combine the ingredients smoothly.
• Large Serving Bowl or Platter: To arrange the salad beautifully and give it room to shine.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought mozzarella?
Yes! While fresh mozzarella is ideal for this recipe, you can absolutely use store-bought mozzarella if you prefer. Just make sure to slice it thinly for the best texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge for a day ahead. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in cucumbers, bell peppers, or even roasted vegetables for extra crunch and flavor.

How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the tomatoes will lose their texture as they sit, but the flavor will still be delicious!

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Conclusion

I hope you love this Best Summer Tomato Salad as much as I do! It’s simple, fresh, and packed with flavor—everything you want in a summer dish. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just craving something light and healthy, this salad is the perfect addition to your meal.

Give it a try, and I’d love to hear what you think! Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and tag me on Instagram. I can’t wait to see your beautiful, colorful salads!