Tomato Crouton Salad
A vibrant, crunchy salad featuring toasted bread cubes, fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and herbs, dressed with olive oil and vinegar — perfect for a light, flavorful meal or side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Toss bread cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bake in a single layer for 20 minutes or until golden.
- Cut cucumbers into 1-inch cubes.
- Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, shallots, parsley or basil, 3 tablespoons olive oil, and vinegar in a large bowl.
- Just before serving, add the toasted bread cubes and toss gently.
- Divide arugula among 6 plates and top with the salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider using day-old bread. You can substitute the French or Italian bread with whole grain or sourdough for added flavor. If you prefer a more robust taste, try adding garlic powder or using fresh herbs instead of dried oregano. This salad also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Crouton Salad can be served as a refreshing appetizer or a light main dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it alongside a bowl of soup. For added protein, consider including chickpeas or feta cheese. It also works well with the World Famous Shish Kabob Marinade for a flavorful side.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, keep the croutons and salad separate to prevent sogginess. Place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The croutons can be stored in a cool, dry place for several days. Reheat croutons in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Crouton Salad contains roughly 1121 calories, with 47g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (198% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (164% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2078mg per serving (90% 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?
While you can prepare the ingredients ahead, it's best to assemble the salad just before serving. This ensures the croutons remain crispy and the vegetables stay fresh. You can chop the veggies and make the croutons in advance, storing them separately until you're ready to toss them together.
What can I substitute for cucumbers?
If you're not a fan of cucumbers, consider using bell peppers or zucchini for a similar crunch. Avocado can also be a delicious alternative, adding creaminess to the salad. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to complement the flavors of your chosen substitute.
How can I make this salad vegan?
This salad is already vegan-friendly! Ensure that the bread you use doesn't contain any dairy products. You can enhance the flavor by adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar, which will elevate the taste without compromising the vegan aspect.
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).