If you’re searching for a dish that truly lets summer flavors shine, this Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe is a must-try favorite. Bursting with juicy tomatoes, fragrant fresh garlic, and a fresh herby kick, it comes together in just minutes yet tastes like something you’d find at a cozy Mediterranean café. Every bite is bright and savory—with that irresistible blend of simplicity and satisfying depth that makes it perfect for picnics, weeknight meals, or festive gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe is all about celebrating fresh, simple ingredients—each one adds its own unique flair, whether it’s juicy texture, a punch of flavor, or vibrant color. Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make this refreshing salad sing:
- Tomatoes: Use 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced or chopped; heirloom or cherry tomatoes add extra sweetness and a stunning color palette.
- Garlic: Three cloves, finely minced, deliver just the right amount of bold, aromatic flavor to balance the salad.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Two tablespoons bring a lush, silky texture that melds beautifully with both the tomatoes and garlic.
- Vinegar: One tablespoon of red wine or balsamic vinegar adds a tangy kick; feel free to use your favorite for a twist.
- Salt: Half a teaspoon lifts the flavors and helps draw out those tomato juices—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: A quarter teaspoon brings gentle heat and depth that rounds out every bite.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Add a quarter teaspoon if you like a hint of gentle heat.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Two tablespoons, chopped, to finish the salad with vibrant color and a pop of herby freshness.
How to Make Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes and Garlic
Choose the ripest tomatoes you can find—this is the time for that peak summer produce. Give them a gentle rinse, then slice or chop as you prefer for your Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe. Mince the garlic cloves as finely as possible for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and add in the tomatoes and minced garlic. Drizzle the olive oil and your chosen vinegar over the top. Sprinkle everything with salt, black pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes if you’d love a touch of heat.
Step 3: Toss and Rest
Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss everything to coat the tomatoes evenly—try not to break them up too much. Let your Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes, giving all those flavors a chance to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Herbs and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the fresh chopped basil or parsley over the salad and give it one last, gentle toss. This final addition brightens up every forkful and makes the whole dish feel extra fresh.
How to Serve Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touch for your Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe? A flurry of extra chopped herbs, a drizzle of your best olive oil, or even a scattering of crumbled feta or mozzarella for richness. Serve it up in a rustic bowl or on a platter for a little fancy flair.
Side Dishes
This salad is extremely versatile and pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter meal, try scooping it onto toasted, crusty bread or tossing it with al dente pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a pretty presentation, layer the tomatoes in overlapping rounds, sprinkle with garlic and the rest of the ingredients, then drizzle everything tableside. Another idea: skewer cherry tomatoes with mozzarella balls and basil, then spoon the garlicky dressing over the top for salads-on-a-stick!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. The tomatoes will continue to release juices, so it may become even more flavorful, but the texture softens over time.
Freezing
Unfortunately, this salad is not ideal for freezing. The fresh tomatoes and herbs lose their texture and vibrant colors after thawing, resulting in a much less appealing dish.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat the Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe—it’s best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled. If you like, let it sit out for 10 minutes after removing from the fridge to bring the flavors back to life.
FAQs
Can I use different kinds of tomatoes in this salad?
Absolutely! In fact, mixing heirloom, cherry, and vine-ripened tomatoes adds gorgeous color and varying flavors that make this Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe even more special.
How strong is the garlic flavor?
The garlic offers a noticeable punch, but it melds pleasantly with the tomatoes and dressing as the salad sits. If you prefer a milder taste, start with less and add more to suit your palate.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep it a few hours before serving—just wait to add the fresh herbs and give it a final toss right before your meal to keep things tasting ultra-fresh.
What type Salad
Red wine vinegar provides a bright, tangy bite, while balsamic vinegar delivers sweetness and depth. Choose your favorite or use what you have on hand; both work beautifully in this Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe.
Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! The base Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. If you choose to add cheese as a garnish, just select a vegan variety to keep it plant-based.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps to create something absolutely delicious—this Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe is fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor in every bite. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes your new go-to for any season!
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Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Tomato Garlic Salad recipe that’s perfect for summer. This Mediterranean-inspired dish features ripe tomatoes, minced garlic, and a simple yet delicious dressing.
Ingredients
Tomato Garlic Salad:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes (sliced or chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes and minced garlic.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss gently.
- Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit for 10–15 minutes to meld flavors.
- Final Touch: Just before serving, mix in the fresh herbs.
- Serve: Enjoy as a side dish or over toasted bread or grilled meats.
Notes
- Try using a mix of heirloom or cherry tomatoes for variety.
- Enhance with feta or fresh mozzarella for added richness.
- Best served fresh; refrigerate leftovers for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
