Tomato Garlic Salad – Fresh, Flavorful & Simple!

This Tomato Garlic Salad is the perfect fresh and vibrant side dish that pairs well with any meal! Made with juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a light dressing, this salad is simple, healthy, and packed with bold flavors.

It’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it an easy addition to grilled meats, pasta dishes, or even as a topping for crusty bread. If you love Mediterranean-style salads, this will quickly become a favorite!

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Ingredients for Tomato Garlic Salad

the Salad:

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)

Garnishing (Optional):

• Fresh basil leaves
• Feta cheese crumbles
• Toasted pine nuts

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Small whisk or spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Wash and chop tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Place them in a mixing bowl and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

2. Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and honey.

3. Assemble the Salad

1. Add minced garlic, diced red onion, and chopped parsley to the tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and gently toss to combine.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with fresh basil, feta cheese, or toasted pine nuts.
• Serve immediately or let it marinate for 10-15 minutes for deeper flavors.

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Expert Tips for the Best Tomato Garlic Salad

Use ripe, in-season tomatoes – The sweeter the tomatoes, the better the salad!
Let the salad sit – Marinating for a few minutes enhances the flavors.
Adjust the garlic – If you prefer a milder taste, use roasted garlic instead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using unripe tomatoes – They lack sweetness and juiciness.
Skipping the salt – It enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes.
Over-mixing the salad – Toss gently to avoid making it watery.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for a light appetizer.
• Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a complete meal.
• Use as a topping for bruschetta or grain bowls.

How to Store Leftovers

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• The salad may release juices, so drain excess liquid before serving again.

Freezing:

• Not recommended, as fresh tomatoes become mushy when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it creamy – Add avocado or mozzarella balls.
• Use different herbs – Swap parsley for cilantro or dill.
• Try a citrus twist – Use lemon juice instead of vinegar.

What to Serve with Tomato Garlic Salad

• Grilled salmon or shrimp
• Pasta dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio
• Roasted vegetables or hummus platter

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead?

Yes! Halved cherry or grape tomatoes work great in this recipe.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s naturally low-carb and keto-approved.

How can I reduce the garlic’s strong flavor?

Let minced garlic sit in olive oil for 10 minutes before adding to the salad.

Conclusion

This Tomato Garlic Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side, appetizer, or topping, it’s easy to make and bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more simple and delicious recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 120 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Serves: 4

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