Tomatoes And Onion Salad
A fresh, flavorful tomato and onion salad featuring basil and a simple vinaigrette, perfect for light meals or as a side dish for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place tomato slices in a deep bowl and sprinkle with chopped onions and basil.
- Combine salad oil, wine vinegar, salt, and pepper; beat well.
- Pour the dressing over the tomatoes.
- Let stand in refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes, which offer a variety of colors and tastes. If fresh basil isn't available, you can substitute with dried basil, but use only half the amount. To enhance the dressing, try adding a touch of Dijon mustard or a pinch of sugar. This salad pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean recipes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is best served as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish and is an excellent complement to dishes like Tomato, Onion And Cucumber Salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding chickpeas or croutons for extra texture and protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tomatoes may release juices, so it's best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. If you prefer to enjoy it cold, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving; this enhances the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoes And Onion Salad contains roughly 147 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and iron (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 606mg 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 use other types of onions in this salad?
Yes, you can use other types of onions such as green onions or shallots for a milder flavor. Red onions provide a nice color and sweetness, but if you prefer less pungency, opt for yellow onions or even sweet onions. Always taste and adjust to your preference.
How long can I marinate the salad before serving?
While a minimum of 3 hours is recommended for the flavors to meld, you can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just be aware that the tomatoes will continue to release moisture, so it's best to store the dressing separately if you prefer a less watery salad.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! This salad is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Ensure that the salad oil and vinegar you use are suitable for your dietary preferences. You can also explore adding ingredients like avocado to enhance the creaminess 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).