This Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad is perfect for summer days! It’s packed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a sprinkle of garlic that adds a lovely zing.
Making this salad is a breeze, just chop and mix! I like to serve it cold, which makes it super refreshing on hot days. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🍅🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe, red tomatoes for the best flavor. Cherry or grape tomatoes can work too, just cut them in half. I love using heirloom tomatoes for their unique colors and taste!
Cucumber: A standard cucumber works great, but you can swap in Persian or English cucumbers if you want a sweeter taste and a thinner skin. I like peeling them for a crunchier texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punchy flavor. If you prefer milder garlic, try roasted garlic instead. For a garlic-free option, consider using chives for a softer onion flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma. If fresh is hard to find, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. I often add parsley for a fresh twist.
Red Wine Vinegar: This gives acidity to the dish. If you don’t have it, lemon juice is a great substitute. Apple cider vinegar is also a tasty alternative, but you might need a touch more for the same balance.
How Do You Make the Perfect Fresh Tomato Salad?
Making this salad is simple, but attention to technique makes it shine. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by chopping your tomatoes and cucumbers into bite-sized pieces to ensure every forkful is balanced.
- Minced garlic should be very fine. This lets its flavor spread throughout the salad without overwhelming any single bite.
- Mix ingredients in a bowl gently. The goal is to coat everything in the dressing without squishing the tomatoes.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This part is essential as it lets all the flavors meld together for a tastier dish!
Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion or scallions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should be chilled for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes from start to enjoying this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Fresh Vegetables:
In a large salad bowl, add the chopped tomatoes and diced cucumber. These fresh ingredients will form the base of your salad, bringing vibrant flavors and colors!
2. Add Garlic and Basil:
Next, add the finely minced garlic and the chopped fresh basil leaves to the bowl. The garlic will give a nice kick, and the basil adds a lovely aroma.
3. Drizzle the Dressing:
Now, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar (or lemon juice) over the vegetables. This dressing will brighten up the salad and enhance all the flavors.
4. Season It:
Sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. This is where you can let your taste buds guide you!
5. Toss Gently:
Gently toss everything together, making sure that the dressing coats all the vegetables without squishing the tomatoes. You want everything to be nicely mixed!
6. Optional Addition:
If you like, mix in the finely chopped red onion or scallions for extra flavor. This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch.
7. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the ingredients to meld, making every bite more flavorful!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled as a refreshing side dish for summer meals. Enjoy the burst of fresh flavors with every bite—it’s perfect for cookouts or picnics!
FAQ for Fresh Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While ripe red tomatoes are recommended for their sweetness, you can use cherry, grape, or even heirloom tomatoes for varying flavors and textures. Just adjust the chopping as needed!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the tomatoes may become mushy over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you want to keep it crisp, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it just before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Red Wine Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute red wine vinegar with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or any other light vinegar. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but all will work well in this salad!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers, feta cheese, or avocados for more flavor and texture. Just remember to keep the balance so the fresh tomato flavor shines through!
