This marinated tomato salad is a classic summer favorite—juicy tomatoes soaked in a light, tangy dressing with onions and herbs. It’s refreshing, slightly sweet, and bursting with natural flavor.
The longer it sits, the better it tastes—making it perfect for gatherings, BBQs, or a simple homemade side dish.
⏱️ Prep Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 1–2 hours (recommended)
- Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon or whisk
🍅 Ingredients
- 4–5 cups fresh tomatoes (sliced or chunked)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1–2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil (optional, chopped)
📌 Ingredient Notes
- Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy ones (Roma, vine, or cherry)
- Vinegar: Adds that signature tangy bite
- Sugar: Balances acidity—adjust to your taste
- Onion: Red onion gives a mild, slightly sweet flavor
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and slice tomatoes into wedges or rounds
- Thinly slice the onion
- Add both to a large bowl
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Vinegar
- Olive oil
- Sugar
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix until sugar is mostly dissolved.
Step 3: Combine & Toss
- Pour dressing over tomatoes and onions
- Gently toss until everything is evenly coated
Step 4: Marinate
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours
- Stir once or twice for even flavor
👉 The tomatoes will release juices and create an even richer dressing.
Step 5: Serve
- Sprinkle fresh herbs on top (optional)
- Serve chilled or at room temperature
🧮 Nutrition (Approx per serving)
- Calories: 90
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
💡 Tips for Best Flavor
✔ Use fully ripe tomatoes for natural sweetness
✔ Let it marinate longer for deeper flavor
✔ Add cucumbers for extra crunch
✔ Taste before serving—adjust salt/sugar if needed
🍽️ Variations
- Cucumber Tomato Salad: Add sliced cucumbers
- Garlic Kick: Add 1 minced garlic clove
- Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes
- Creamy Twist: Add a spoon of mayo or sour cream (less traditional but tasty!)
