Cilantro-Tomato Salad
A fresh, vibrant cilantro-tomato salad with crunchy celery and onion, perfect as a side or light meal, bursting with summer flavors and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cube the tomatoes.
- Dice the onion and combine with the tomatoes.
- Add chopped celery, cilantro, and season with Tabasco, salt, and pepper.
- Toss everything together and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes, which offer a variety of tastes and colors. If you don't have fresh cilantro, parsley can be a suitable substitute. Adjust the heat by varying the amount of Tabasco or using a milder hot sauce. To enhance the salad's freshness, try adding diced cucumber or bell peppers. This recipe can also be adapted for a Gazpacho Salad by blending the ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This Cilantro-Tomato Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues. It can also be served atop a bed of greens for a light lunch. For a refreshing twist, consider serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes, or alongside Zucchini Sauce With Garlic for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat it, gently warm it in a pan over low heat to preserve the integrity of the vegetables. Avoid microwaving as it may make the tomatoes mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cilantro-Tomato Salad contains roughly 150 calories, with 6g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (154% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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 salad ahead of time?
It's best to prepare this salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. However, you can chop the vegetables a few hours in advance and store them separately. Combine everything right before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.
What can I substitute for tomatoes?
If tomatoes are out of season, consider using diced cucumbers or roasted red peppers as a substitute. These alternatives will provide a different texture but still keep the salad refreshing. For a unique take, try adding diced mango for a sweet twist.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Cilantro-Tomato Salad is completely plant-based and fits well within vegan recipes. It’s a light and refreshing option that can be served as a side dish or a main course when paired with grains or legumes.
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).