Name: Easy Italian Tomato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 3 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 pounds fresh tomatoes (approximately 16 small tomatoes); 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced; Large handful fresh basil, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup red wine vinegar; 1/4 cup water; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 57 reviews

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with classic Mediterranean charm, this Easy Italian Tomato Salad Recipe is absolutely the way to go. Packed with juicy ripe tomatoes, sharp red onions, fragrant basil, and a tangy red wine vinegar dressing, this salad is the perfect celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly spectacular. It’s the kind of recipe that brightens up any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, and best of all, it takes just minutes to prepare yet rewards you with a rich, layered flavor that’s unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round wooden chopping board on a white marbled surface holds three piles of chopped ingredients: bright green leafy basil on the top left, small white minced garlic pieces on the top right, and several layers of sliced purple-red onions with white inner rings on the lower right side. The textures show fresh, crisp leaves and moist, firm onion slices clearly separated on the board. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is not only essential but also adds its unique touch to the salad’s taste, texture, and color. From the sweetness of fresh tomatoes to the zing of red wine vinegar, these components come together effortlessly to create a culinary delight.

2 pounds fresh tomatoes: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for a burst of juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
1 medium red onion: Thinly sliced to add a mild, tangy crunch that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Fresh basil: A large handful, chopped finely to infuse the salad with its classic aromatic herbal freshness.
2 cloves garlic: Minced to provide a subtle but essential punch of savory depth.
1/3 cup red wine vinegar: This adds a bright, acidic tang that lifts all the flavors beautifully.
1/4 cup water: Used to mellow out the vinegar and help the flavors mingle gracefully.
1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the natural flavors and seasons the salad perfectly.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a hint of earthy, herbal notes that complement the fresh basil.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild warmth that rounds out the flavor profile.

How to Make Easy Italian Tomato Salad Recipe

Step 1: Combine Fresh Ingredients

Start by placing your fresh tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped basil into a large bowl. Adding the garlic at this stage ensures its flavor will meld beautifully with the tomatoes’ natural juices. This fresh base is the heart of your Easy Italian Tomato Salad Recipe.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, water, salt, dried oregano, and black pepper. This simple dressing is what transforms your fresh veggies into a savory, tangy dish. Make sure it’s well combined so every bite pops with balanced flavor.

Step 3: Toss to Combine

Pour the dressing over the bowl of tomatoes and herbs, then gently toss everything together. You want all the ingredients to be well distributed and evenly coated in that luscious dressing—it’s what makes this salad so irresistible.

Step 4: Marinate in the Refrigerator

Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least three hours. This marinating time allows the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to soak up the tangy dressing, elevating the salad beyond just a simple mix of ingredients.

How to Serve Easy Italian Tomato Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with bright red tomato chunks mixed with thin rings of light purple onion, sprinkled with small pieces of green basil leaves and black pepper. The tomato pieces show juicy, smooth textures, while the onion rings add a slight crunch with their thin, translucent look. Scattered around the bowl on a white marbled surface are fresh basil leaves, a small white dish with coarse salt and pepper, and whole red tomatoes. A gray cloth is placed to the side, and a white bowl with a blue pattern holding bright green basil leaves is near the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a bit of extra flair and flavor, consider topping your salad with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese or a few whole basil leaves. A light drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds a silky richness that perfectly complements the acidity of the dressing.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a side dish to grilled meats, especially chicken or steak, and it pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread for soaking up every last drop of dressing. It also works wonderfully alongside pasta dishes or as a refreshing counterpoint to a hearty pizza.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, try layering the salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant reds, greens, and purples. You can also serve individual portions in small bowls or over slices of toasted baguette for a delightful bruschetta twist that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, this salad will keep well for up to two days, giving the flavors even more time to develop.

Freezing

Since this is a fresh vegetable salad, freezing is not recommended. The tomatoes will lose their crisp texture and turn mushy once thawed, which diminishes the salad’s overall appeal.

Reheating

This salad is intended to be served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can let it sit out for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the fridge to take the chill off, but reheating is not needed or advised.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes for this salad?

Absolutely! While standard ripe tomatoes work wonderfully, you can also try heirloom tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or grape tomatoes for different textures and flavors. Just make sure they’re fresh and firm.

Is it okay to add olive oil to the dressing?

Yes, you can add a splash of extra virgin olive oil if you want a richer dressing. The original recipe keeps it light with just vinegar and water, but oil is a classic addition in Italian salads.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! The flavors deepen the longer it marinates, so making it a few hours in advance or even the day before can enhance the taste. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until serving.

What if I don’t have dried oregano? Can I substitute fresh oregano?

Fresh oregano can be used but start with a smaller amount since its flavor is more potent when fresh. You may want to add about half a teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this Easy Italian Tomato Salad Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for a variety of dietary needs without any modifications.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Italian Tomato Salad Recipe is one of those go-to dishes that you’ll find yourself making over and over again, especially when fresh tomatoes are in season. Its simplicity is deceptive because the flavors are anything but plain—each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that quintessential Italian charm. Whether you’re serving it as a side, a light lunch, or a colorful addition to your dinner table, this salad is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Give it a try, and soon you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed summer meals without it!

Maggie

Easy Italian Tomato Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need