If you’re looking to brighten your meal with something fresh, vibrant, and incredibly simple, this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, the subtle bite of red onion, fragrant basil, and a perfectly balanced homemade dressing, this salad is both a celebration of summer’s best flavors and a breeze to make. Whether it’s a quick side or a star on your table, this salad never fails to impress with its irresistible combination of color, texture, and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe is delightfully straightforward, using a handful of fresh, quality ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering a salad that is both refreshing and flavorful. These basics come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts.
- 750g/1.5lb cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes: Choose ripe, sweet tomatoes for that juicy burst with every bite.
- 1/2 red onion, finely sliced: Adds a mild crunch and a touch of sharpness that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 cup basil leaves, tightly packed, finely sliced: Fresh basil introduces a fragrant, peppery note that elevates the entire salad.
- 1 tbsp cider vinegar: Brings a gentle acidity that brightens the flavors without overpowering.
- 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps marry all the ingredients beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard: Just a bit for depth and a subtle zing, but feel free to use any non-spicy mustard you have on hand.
- 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
How to Make Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Shake Up the Dressing
Start by combining the cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a jar or small bowl. Shake or whisk vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking—if the dressing feels too tart, a splash more olive oil will smooth it out perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
Now for the star ingredient. Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes to reveal their juicy insides. If you’re using larger tomatoes instead, cut them into wedges, then bite-sized chunks so every piece is easy to enjoy in one mouthful.
Step 3: Combine the Vegetables
Place your freshly sliced red onion, chopped basil, and prepared tomatoes into a mixing bowl. The contrasting textures and aromas of these ingredients are already working together beautifully.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Pour the luscious dressing over the tomato mixture and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to crush the tomatoes—just a delicate toss will ensure every bite is coated with that delicious dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and the full crispness of the salad.
How to Serve Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To make this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe even more special, sprinkle some freshly shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese on top. Toasted pine nuts or a few olives add a wonderful crunch and salty punch. A light drizzle of aged balsamic glaze can also elevate the salad visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seared fish, or even alongside a juicy steak for a light, vibrant contrast. It’s also perfect when served with crusty bread or as a bright counterpoint to heavier dishes like creamy pasta or roasted vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe in a hollowed-out tomatoes bowl for a charming presentation, or layer it on crostini for a delightful appetizer. For casual entertaining, place it in a clear glass bowl to show off the vibrant reds, greens, and purples—because eating is as much about the eyes as the palate!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to meld, though the tomatoes may soften and lose some texture after several hours.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and olive oil dressing, freezing this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe is not recommended. The tomatoes will become mushy and watery once thawed, losing the vibrant qualities that make this salad so delightful.
Reheating
This salad is served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary and can negatively affect the fresh, crisp texture of the ingredients. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if pulled from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes in this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal for their size and sweetness, you can substitute with any ripe tomatoes. Just adjust the cutting size accordingly to keep the textures pleasant.
Is there a substitute for cider vinegar?
Yes, white wine vinegar or lemon juice work wonderfully as alternatives, lending their own unique brightness to the dressing without overpowering the flavors.
Can I make this salad vegan?
This salad is naturally vegan when served as is. If you choose to add cheese as a garnish, just skip it or opt for plant-based cheese alternatives to keep it vegan-friendly.
How long does this Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days for peak freshness and flavor.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Certainly! Fresh oregano, thyme, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can all add interesting twists. Feel free to experiment and make the salad your own!
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe is more than just a quick fix; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do. It’s the kind of dish that brings a smile to the table and a sigh of contentment with every bite. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
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Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 5 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Cherry Tomato Salad featuring sweet cherry tomatoes, crisp red onions, and fragrant basil, tossed in a simple yet flavorful cider vinegar and Dijon mustard dressing. Perfect as a quick, healthy side dish or light meal, served immediately to preserve the bright flavors.
Ingredients
Salad
- 750g (1.5lb) cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved (or large tomatoes cut into wedges and bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
- 1/2 cup basil leaves, tightly packed and finely sliced
Dressing
- 1 tbsp cider vinegar
- 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy mustard)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Shake all the dressing ingredients (cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper) together in a jar until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or oil if you prefer a less tart flavor.
- Cut the Tomatoes: Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. If using large tomatoes, cut them into wedges and then into bite-sized pieces to ensure easy eating and optimal dressing coverage.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, place the halved tomatoes, finely sliced red onion, and sliced basil leaves.
- Toss with Dressing and Serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the tomato mixture. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat the ingredients without bruising the tomatoes. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, bright flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture in the salad.
- For a different vinegar flavor, you can substitute cider vinegar with red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
- The salad is best served immediately to preserve the fresh texture, as marinating for too long can make the tomatoes soggy.
- Adjust the mustard type based on preference; Dijon is traditional but milder mustards work well too.
- To make this salad vegan and gluten free, ensure mustard and vinegar labels are suitable for your dietary requirements.
