Celebrate summer’s bounty with Sliced Garden Tomato Salad, a Fresh Summer Side bursting with juicy heirloom tomatoes, tangy balsamic dressing, creamy feta, and briny green olives. Ready in just 10 minutes, this vibrant, nutrient-packed Sliced Garden Tomato Salad is perfect for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or a light, refreshing meal.
Why You’ll Love Sliced Garden Tomato Salad
This Sliced Garden Tomato Salad recipe is a standout Fresh Summer Side:
- Quick Prep: Takes only 10 minutes, no cooking required.
- Flavorful: Combines sweet tomatoes, tangy dressing, and savory toppings.
- Healthy: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats.
- Versatile: Pairs with any main or shines as a light meal.
- I served this at a picnic, and it was the ultimate Fresh Summer Side!
Ingredients for Sliced Garden Tomato Salad
Here’s what you’ll need for Sliced Garden Tomato Salad (serves 4):
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp high-quality balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 lb ripe heirloom or garden tomatoes
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup pitted green olives
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Ingredient Tips:
- Tomatoes: Heirloom or vine-ripened for peak flavor; avoid off-season varieties.
- Balsamic: High-quality vinegar enhances tanginess.
- Feta: Crumbled fresh feta adds creaminess; check for vegetarian options.
- Olives: Pitted green olives provide briny contrast; kalamata works too.
- Equipment: Small bowl or jar, serving platter, sharp knife.
Directions for Sliced Garden Tomato Salad
Let’s create this colorful Sliced Garden Tomato Salad!
Make Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, I whisk 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper until emulsified, creating a tangy dressing for Sliced Garden Tomato Salad.
Slice Vegetables
I thinly slice 1 lb tomatoes and 1 small red onion, ensuring even cuts for presentation.
Assemble Salad
On a large platter, I arrange the tomato and onion slices in an overlapping pattern. I drizzle the balsamic dressing evenly over the top.
Add Toppings
I sprinkle ½ cup crumbled feta, ½ cup green olives, and 2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil over the salad, enhancing the flavors of Sliced Garden Tomato Salad.
Serve or Chill
I serve immediately for maximum freshness or chill covered for up to 2 hours to meld flavors.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 12g carbs, 4g protein, 13g fat, 3g fiber
Health Benefits:
- Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium for heart and immune health.
- Olive Oil: Provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Feta: Adds calcium and protein; olives contribute antioxidants.
Variations for Sliced Garden Tomato Salad
Try these twists on Sliced Garden Tomato Salad:
- Vegan: Omit feta or use plant-based cheese.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or grilled tofu for heartiness.
- Crunchy Add-In: Toss in toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds.
- Herb Swap: Use dill or cilantro instead of parsley or basil.
- Low-Carb: Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia.
Storage
I store Sliced Garden Tomato Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though it’s best fresh to avoid soggy tomatoes. I avoid freezing, as it ruins the texture. If chilling, I add herbs just before serving to keep them vibrant.
Serving Ideas
Make your Sliced Garden Tomato Salad a star Fresh Summer Side:
- Classic: Serve as a Fresh Summer Side with grilled chicken or fish.
- Vegetarian Meal: Pair with hummus and flatbread for a mezze platter.
- Hearty Option: Accompany with roasted potatoes or sautéed zucchini.
- Garnish: Add extra basil or a balsamic glaze drizzle for elegance.
- Occasion: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or summer barbecues.
FAQs
- Can I use store-bought tomatoes for Fresh Tomato Platter?
I prefer heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes for Fresh Tomato Platter to capture their sweet, juicy flavor, but quality store-bought tomatoes can work if they’re ripe. Look for firm, vibrant tomatoes at farmers’ markets or grocery stores, avoiding pale or mealy ones for the best Fresh Tomato Platter experience. - Can I make Fresh Tomato Platter ahead of time?
Yes, I assemble Fresh Tomato Platter up to 2 hours ahead, chilling it covered in the fridge to let the balsamic dressing meld with the tomatoes and onions. I add fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to keep them vibrant and crisp for a stunning Fresh Tomato Platter. - Can I make Fresh Tomato Platter vegan?
I make Fresh Tomato Platter vegan by omitting feta or using a plant-based cheese alternative, such as cashew-based feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. All other ingredients—tomatoes, olives, and dressing—remain vegan-friendly, ensuring a delicious Fresh Tomato Platter for all. - What other vegetables can I add to Fresh Tomato Platter?
I enhance Fresh Tomato Platter by mixing in sliced cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or creamy avocado during assembly. These add texture and flavor, with cucumbers offering crunch or peppers bringing smoky depth, making Fresh Tomato Platter even more vibrant and satisfying. - Can I substitute balsamic vinegar in Fresh Tomato Platter?
I love balsamic vinegar for its tangy sweetness in Fresh Tomato Platter, but you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar with a pinch of sugar-free sweetener if needed. The dressing won’t be as rich, but it still complements the Fresh Tomato Platter beautifully.
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Conclusion
Sliced Garden Tomato Salad is a vibrant Fresh Summer Side that celebrates simple, seasonal ingredients with bold flavors. Quick, healthy, and endlessly adaptable, this salad is a must for summer gatherings or light meals. Try Sliced Garden Tomato Salad and savor the taste of summer in every bite.
Sliced Garden Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp high-quality balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 lb ripe heirloom or garden tomatoes
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup pitted green olives
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil chopped
Instructions
Make Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, I whisk 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper until emulsified, creating a tangy dressing for Sliced Garden Tomato Salad.
Slice Vegetables
- I thinly slice 1 lb tomatoes and 1 small red onion, ensuring even cuts for presentation.
Assemble Salad
- On a large platter, I arrange the tomato and onion slices in an overlapping pattern. I drizzle the balsamic dressing evenly over the top.
Add Toppings
- I sprinkle ½ cup crumbled feta, ½ cup green olives, and 2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil over the salad, enhancing the flavors of Sliced Garden Tomato Salad.
Serve or Chill
- I serve immediately for maximum freshness or chill covered for up to 2 hours to meld flavors.
Notes
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