If you’re looking for a burst of summer in every bite, look no further than this Cherry Tomato Salad. It’s the simplest way to celebrate juicy tomatoes at their peak, with just a handful of ingredients that work together like absolute magic. Fresh herbs, a zippy balsamic dressing, and sweet tomatoes create a dish that’s irresistibly vibrant and surprisingly satisfying — perfect for picnics, barbecues, or whenever you crave something light, healthy, and full of flavor. This is one of those recipes that instantly transports you to sunny days spent gathered around the table, sharing laughter and good food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Tomato Salad lies in how straightforward the ingredient list is, yet each item plays a crucial role in the final flavor and presentation. Every component adds its own pop of color, texture, or tang — together, they’re pure salad harmony!
- Cherry tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and colorful — use a mix of red, orange, and yellow if you can for the prettiest salad.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for just the right bite and a splash of purple color.
- Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant, peppery note that screams summer.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens everything up and adds depth to the herbal profile.
- Olive oil: Brings richness and helps the dressing coat every tomato.
- Balsamic vinegar: Offers just the right acid and a sweet, tangy complexity.
- Honey or maple syrup: Rounds out the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness — both versions work beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for drawing out the tomatoes’ juices and making all the flavors pop.
How to Make Cherry Tomato Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by halving your cherry tomatoes. If you’re using different colors, toss them all together for a gorgeous bowlful of jewel-toned beauty. Thinly slice the red onion and finely chop the basil and parsley. This little bit of prep goes a long way toward making your salad vibrant and ready to catch all that dressing.
Step 2: Mix the Base
Combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped basil, and parsley in a large mixing bowl. Give everything a gentle toss so that the herbs and onion start mingling with the tomatoes — you’ll notice their fragrant aroma building already.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl or a jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened. That little hit of honey blends with the vinegar to mellow the acidity just perfectly.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour your luscious balsamic dressing over the tomato mixture. Gently toss everything together so each tomato is glistening and coated. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes — we want those halves plump and full of juice!
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. This resting time is key — it helps the flavors meld, and the salt draws out a little of the tomatoes’ natural juices, making the salad even more flavorful. Serve at room temperature or chilled, as you prefer.
How to Serve Cherry Tomato Salad
Garnishes
For a burst of creaminess, top your Cherry Tomato Salad with crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella pearls. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or extra basil ribbons makes the colors pop and brings a touch of gourmet flair to the bowl.
Side Dishes
This salad is endlessly versatile — pile it next to grilled chicken, tuck it into sandwiches, or spoon it over toasted sourdough. It also shines alongside Mediterranean favorites like hummus, falafel, or a simple quinoa pilaf.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Cherry Tomato Salad into a stunning appetizer by serving it in glasses or small bowls, or even plating it atop a bed of fresh arugula for a more composed salad course. For a picnic, bring the salad in a mason jar and shake to mix just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Cherry Tomato Salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for a day, though the tomatoes may release extra juices as they sit, making the salad a bit saucier (which is still delicious!).
Freezing
Because of the fresh herbs and the watery nature of tomatoes, freezing this salad isn’t recommended. The texture of the tomatoes and herbs will change once thawed, so enjoy it fresh for the best experience.
Reheating
This is a no-cook, refreshingly crisp salad, so reheating isn’t needed or recommended. If your Cherry Tomato Salad has been chilled, let it come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture before serving.
FAQs
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Grape tomatoes are an excellent substitute in this salad and will give you a similar sweet-tart punch. Just halve them and proceed as outlined.
How can I make this salad vegan?
This Cherry Tomato Salad is naturally vegan if you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing. All other ingredients are plant-based and perfect for vegan diets.
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
Feel free to toss in white beans, cooked quinoa, or diced avocado to bulk up the salad and add extra heartiness without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Is it okay to make this salad a few hours in advance?
Yes! You can mix everything a few hours ahead and let it rest in the fridge. Just give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and juices.
What type Salad
Choose a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best results. Aged or “balsamic glaze” varieties add more sweetness and depth, making the salad even more special.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t yet fallen in love with Cherry Tomato Salad, this is the recipe that will sweep you off your feet. It’s proof that a bit of chopping and a swirl of pantry dressing can bring serious joy to your table. Treat yourself (and your guests) to this fresh favorite soon — you’ll be hooked!
Print
Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and simple Cherry Tomato Salad that bursts with the flavors of summer. This vibrant salad features halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
Ingredients
Salad:
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Salad: In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, and parsley.
- Make Dressing: In a small jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour dressing over tomatoes and toss gently to combine. Let sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella.
- Use heirloom cherry tomatoes for added color and sweetness.
- Best enjoyed the same day it’s made.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
