Tomato Vinaigrette Salad
A vibrant tomato vinaigrette salad featuring fresh tomatoes, tangy dressing, and aromatic herbs, perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the tomatoes, chopped onion, green pepper (if using), crushed garlic, oregano leaves, salt, pepper, and dry mustard in a tightly covered jar.
- Shake vigorously until the ingredients are well blended and the dressing is smooth.
- Chop or slice the tomatoes and arrange them on a serving dish.
- Pour the dressing over the tomatoes, spooning it over the pieces occasionally.
- Cover the salad and chill for several hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you're out of wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a great substitute. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the vinaigrette. Make sure to use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tomato Vinaigrette Salad as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or alongside Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Braised Vegetables With Couscous or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch. Consider adding feta cheese or olives for an additional flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the tomatoes may become mushy over time, so it's best served fresh. If you want to enjoy the dressing separately, store it in the jar for up to a week without the tomatoes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Vinaigrette Salad contains roughly 249 calories, with 6g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 846mg per serving (37% 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 use canned tomatoes for this salad?
While fresh tomatoes are recommended for their flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. However, drain them well and consider using less dressing, as canned tomatoes can be more watery.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Tomato Vinaigrette Salad is vegan-friendly! It features fresh vegetables and a plant-based dressing, making it a great option for those following vegan recipes. Just ensure any added ingredients, like cheese, are also vegan.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling the salad for at least 2-3 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For optimal taste, try to chill it overnight if possible. This enhances the overall flavor and makes it even more refreshing when served.
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).