Vidalia Onion Salad
A light, fresh salad featuring thinly sliced Vidalia onion and tomato, drizzled with olive oil and vinegar, topped with basil and Parmesan—perfect for summer meals or light gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thinly slice the Vidalia onion and tomato.
- On two salad plates, alternate slices of onion and tomato.
- Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Sprinkle with chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and serve with warm French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Vidalia Onion Salad, let the sliced onions sit in the vinegar for a few minutes before serving; this mellows their sharpness. If fresh basil isn’t available, consider using a teaspoon of dried basil or parsley. For a twist, try adding slices of avocado or a handful of arugula for added texture. This recipe is a great side to accompany dishes like Daddy's Pound Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This Vidalia Onion Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect summer meal. Serve alongside warm French bread to soak up the delicious dressing. For a complete dinner, consider following it with Aunt Ann Clouse's French Silk Chocolate Pie for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best texture, it's advisable to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. If reheating, gently warm the salad in a skillet over low heat, but note that fresh vegetables may lose their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vidalia Onion Salad contains roughly 394 calories, with 13g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1351mg per serving (59% 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 regular onions instead of Vidalia onions?
While you can substitute regular onions, Vidalia onions are sweeter and milder, which greatly enhances this salad's flavor. If using yellow or red onions, consider soaking them in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharpness before slicing.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add extra toppings like sunflower seeds or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What type of tomato works best for this recipe?
For optimal flavor and texture, use ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes. Their sweetness and juiciness complement the Vidalia onions beautifully. Avoid using grainy or overly firm tomatoes, as they won't provide the same delightful experience.
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).