Cherry Tomato Salad
A vibrant cherry tomato salad featuring crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches, its savory and fresh flavors appeal to those who enjoy simple, flavorful dishes with a hint of smoky richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp, then drain and crumble.
- Combine crumbled bacon with halved cherry tomatoes, peeled and diced cucumber, and chopped green onions.
- Sprinkle the mixture with garlic salt, sweet basil, and black pepper.
- Mix well and chill the salad.
- In a separate container, combine red wine vinegar and salad oil; shake well to blend.
- Just before serving, pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using applewood smoked bacon. You can substitute the cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes if needed. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be used in place of sweet basil for a different flavor profile. Ensure the salad is chilled for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, similar to a Layered Spinach Salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Tomato Salad makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Pork recipes or can be served alongside a hearty main like Tender Roast. Consider garnishing with additional herbs or feta cheese for extra flavor. Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crunch over time, so it's best to enjoy it fresh. If reheating, avoid microwaving the salad; instead, serve it cold or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Tomato Salad contains roughly 116 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just mix the ingredients together and store them separately from the vinaigrette to keep everything fresh. Combine the salad and dressing just before serving to maintain the texture of the vegetables.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using crispy chickpeas or tempeh bacon for a similar crunch and savory flavor. You can also omit the bacon altogether and add more vegetables or nuts for added texture.
Is there a way to make this salad spicier?
Absolutely! You can add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the salad for a kick. Additionally, a dash of hot sauce in the vinaigrette can enhance the heat level without overpowering the other flavors.
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).