Gary'S Tomato Salad
A savory tomato salad with crispy bacon, creamy mayonnaise, and fresh herbs, perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing side dish for summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then set aside and crumble.
- In a large bowl, toss together diced tomatoes, minced onion, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of each serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add diced cucumbers for extra crunch or substitute the bacon with a vegetarian option like smoked tempeh. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can enhance the flavor, aligning well with the freshness of the tomatoes. Ensure the tomatoes are at room temperature for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or alongside a hearty main like Eileen Davis' Potato Casserole. It also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. Consider adding some avocado slices for creaminess or serving it on a bed of lettuce for a stunning presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the texture, avoid mixing the bacon with the salad until serving. If you need to reheat, gently warm it in a microwave, but be cautious as reheating can affect the freshness. It’s best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gary'S Tomato Salad contains roughly 173 calories, with 5g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 599mg 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?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, it's best to add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy. If you mix everything together too early, the tomatoes may release excess liquid, making the salad watery.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
For the best flavor, choose ripe, in-season tomatoes like heirloom or Roma varieties. They have a sweet, rich taste that complements the other ingredients well. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, you can use canned diced tomatoes, but drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! You can include diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even corn for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to balance the flavors so that the fresh tomatoes remain the star of the dish. This flexibility allows you to customize the salad to your preference.
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).