Bill'S Tomato Salad
A fresh and simple tomato salad featuring ripe tomatoes, red onion, basil, and olive oil, perfect for light lunches or as a side dish for warm weather meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place a small amount of shredded lettuce on a plate.
- Top with 3 slices of ripe tomato.
- Add chopped red onion and chopped or dried basil.
- Pour 1 teaspoon of olive oil on each tomato.
- Sprinkle with black pepper.
- Let stand at least 1/2 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, try adding diced cucumbers or bell peppers to the salad. If fresh basil isn't available, use dried basil but reduce the amount, as it's more concentrated. A drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil can elevate the flavor further. Letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for Marinated Shish Kabobs or a light lunch alongside a Capri Sandwich. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices, or complement it with a side of Spring Green Salad for a wholesome meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some crispness, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat, gently warm the tomatoes slightly in the microwave, but serve fresh for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bill'S Tomato Salad contains roughly 18 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
While you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, it's best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and freshness of the tomatoes. If making in advance, store components separately until ready to serve.
What type of tomatoes work best for this salad?
Ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal for this salad due to their rich flavor and juiciness. Avoid using overripe tomatoes, as they can become mushy and less appealing in texture.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is naturally vegan! Just ensure that the olive oil you use is of high quality for the best flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if desired.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).