Tomato Basil Salad with Balsamic Dressing

Square overhead image of tomato basil salad in a green and white bowl.

5 from 2 votes

Tomato Basil Salad with Balsamic Dressing

This quick and easy tomato basil salad highlights peak-summer tomatoes with snipped fresh basil, a little red onion, and a simple balsamic dressing. It's a 10-minute side dish that pairs with everything from grilled chicken to a slice of lasagna.

Course Salad, Side Dish, Sides

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword cherry tomato salad, tomato basil salad, tomato salad

Prep Time 10

Marinating Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings people

Calories 67kcal

Author Blair Lonergan

Ingredients

4 cups halved cherry tomatoes (or chopped and seeded larger tomatoes)
¼ cup finely diced red onion
2 tablespoons snipped fresh basil (or more to taste)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Combine the tomatoes, red onion, and basil in a large bowl.
In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk or shake together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve immediately, or let the salad marinate for 30 to 60 minutes at room temperature (or in the fridge, if you prefer it cold).

Notes

Use the best tomatoes you can find. Cherry tomatoes are my top pick, but heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes also work well. Skip this one in the winter when good tomatoes are hard to find.
Cut larger tomatoes into 1-inch chunks so they hold their shape. Small dice will fall apart as the salad sits.
Enjoy within about an hour of dressing the salad for the best texture. Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; give them a quick toss and a fresh sprinkle of salt before serving.
Variations: stir in diced avocado, fresh mozzarella or crumbled feta, or diced cucumber. Add chickpeas or white beans to turn the salad into a light vegetarian entree.
Use additional fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, chives, or parsley alongside the basil if you have them on hand.

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