Chili Tomatoes
A vibrant, tangy salad featuring fresh tomatoes and green peppers, flavored with chili sauce and vinegar, perfect for light, refreshing summer meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer tomato slices and green pepper rings in a shallow glass dish.
- Shake remaining ingredients, except lettuce, in a tightly covered jar.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes for a sweeter taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili sauce or omit it entirely. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the vinegar or use olive oil instead of salad oil for a richer dressing. If you like a bit of crunch, add some sliced cucumbers or radishes to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a refreshing side salad with grilled meats or alongside a hearty sandwich. It pairs beautifully with Navy Bean Salad for a light summer meal. Garnish with crisp lettuce leaves to add texture and color. For a vegan option, serve it with a quinoa salad for a colorful, nutritious spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the dish. To serve, simply take out the desired amount and allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Tomatoes contains roughly 210 calories, with 1g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and let it marinate in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop, making it an ideal dish for potlucks or gatherings.
What can I use instead of green peppers?
If you don’t have green peppers, you can use red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor. Alternatively, jalapeños or serrano peppers can add a nice kick if you prefer a bit of heat.
How can I make it spicier?
To amp up the spice level, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
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).