Name: Irresistible Balsamic Tomato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 24 ounces ripe tomatoes (such as plum, cherry, grape, or other varieties); 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 medium cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano); 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh basil (or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil); Fine salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Fresh sprigs of oregano or fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This irresistibly fresh balsamic tomato salad is a perfect way to showcase ripe, juicy tomatoes. Tossed with fragrant herbs and a tangy dressing, it’s a simple, vibrant dish that works beautifully as a side or light appetizer.

A white round plate filled with halved cherry tomatoes in red, orange, yellow, and dark purple colors, mixed evenly with chopped green herbs and small bits of garlic, all glistening with a light dressing. A silver spoon rests on the right side of the plate, partially under some tomatoes. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

24 ounces ripe tomatoes of choice
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 medium cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh oregano, or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, plus fresh sprigs for garnish (optional)
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh basil, or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, plus fresh leaves for garnish (optional)
Fine salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the tomatoes in half. For plum or larger tomatoes, core and remove the seeds, then chop into chunks. For smaller varieties like grape or cherry tomatoes, simply cut them in half to help them soak up the dressing.
Step 2: Place the chopped tomatoes in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Toss everything together gently to combine.
Step 3: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh oregano sprigs or basil leaves if you like, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use heirloom tomatoes for a more colorful and flavorful salad.
If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried oregano and basil work well—just use half the amount.
Add thinly sliced red onion or a sprinkle of crumbled feta for extra depth.
Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Storage

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that tomatoes will release juice and the texture will soften with time. Bring to room temperature before serving and give it a gentle toss to refresh the flavors.

How to Serve

A white rectangular bowl filled with a mixed salad of halved cherry tomatoes in red, orange, yellow, and dark purple colors, topped with chopped fresh green basil leaves scattered evenly across the tomatoes. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the tomatoes look juicy and fresh with a glossy texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare this salad shortly before serving to keep the tomatoes fresh and prevent them from becoming mushy. If needed, you can make it a few hours in advance and refrigerate.

What type of tomatoes work best?

Any ripe tomatoes will work, but a mix of heirloom, plum, grape, or cherry tomatoes adds great texture and flavor diversity.