Description
Tomato Garlic Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish combining juicy ripe tomatoes with bold garlic and a zingy lemon-olive oil dressing. Quick and easy to prepare, this light and healthy salad makes a perfect side or a standalone snack, bursting with bright colors and delightful textures. Ideal for busy days, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or crusty bread and caters to those seeking a nutritious, low-calorie option.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 medium to large ripe tomatoes (or 1 pint cherry tomatoes)
- 2–3 fresh garlic cloves (adjust to preference)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or mozzarella (for cheese addition)
- Pinch of red chili flakes or 1 diced jalapeño (for spicy kick)
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds (for nutty crunch)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced cucumber or red onion (for vegetable boost)
- Alternative dressing: 2 tablespoons balsamic or red wine vinegar (instead of lemon juice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized chunks or thin slices. Halve cherry tomatoes or slice larger tomatoes as preferred.
- Mince the Garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and mince finely to distribute the flavor evenly. For milder garlic, lightly roast or blanch the garlic before mincing.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, creating a bright and balanced dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the prepared tomatoes in a large bowl, add the minced garlic, and then pour the dressing over them. Gently toss to coat each piece without mashing the tomatoes.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Final Touches: Finely chop parsley or basil and sprinkle it over the salad. Give everything a final gentle mix, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- Use perfectly ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Allow the salad to rest for 10 minutes after mixing to let flavors meld.
- Adjust garlic intensity by reducing quantity or soaking minced garlic in lemon juice before adding.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature; slight chilling enhances refreshment.
- Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richer flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; toss gently before serving again.
- Avoid freezing as fresh tomatoes and garlic lose texture and flavor.
- Reheating is not recommended to preserve freshness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: tomato salad, garlic salad, quick salad, fresh salad, Mediterranean salad, healthy salad, vegan, gluten free