This Tomato & Red Onion Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the sharp bite of red onions. Tossed with fresh parsley, olive oil, and a touch of lemon juice, it’s a simple yet flavorful salad that pairs beautifully with almost any main course.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. It uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find year-round. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp red onions, and fragrant parsley creates a balance of sweetness, sharpness, and freshness in every bite. It’s naturally light, healthy, and versatile enough to serve as a side dish, appetizer, or even a topping for grilled dishes. Best of all, it comes together in just minutes with no cooking required.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds or wedges
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or balsamic vinegar (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
Directions
Wash and dry the tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them into even rounds or wedges and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Peel the red onion and slice it as thinly as possible for the best texture and flavor balance. Add the sliced onion to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley evenly over the tomatoes and onions.
Drizzle the olive oil evenly across the salad. If using, add the lemon juice or balsamic vinegar at this stage.
Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Gently toss everything together using clean hands or salad tongs, being careful not to break the tomato slices.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, salty contrast.
Include sliced cucumbers for extra crunch and freshness.
Sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano or sumac for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
Add thin slices of avocado for a richer texture.
Top with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
For a sweeter note, add a small drizzle of honey to the dressing.
Storage/Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the tomatoes will release juices as they sit, making the salad softer over time.
If preparing ahead, slice the vegetables and store them separately. Combine and season just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
This salad does not require reheating and should not be heated, as it is meant to be served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, assemble it just before serving. You can slice the vegetables in advance and store them separately.
How do I reduce the sharpness of the red onion?
Soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry before adding them to the salad.
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead?
Absolutely. Slice cherry or grape tomatoes in halves for a similar flavor and a slightly different presentation.
What type of olive oil works best?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor and aroma.
Is balsamic vinegar better than lemon juice?
Both work well. Lemon juice adds brightness, while balsamic gives a slightly sweet and tangy depth.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes, fresh basil, mint, or dill can complement the flavors beautifully.
How do I keep the tomatoes from getting soggy?
Salt the salad just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from releasing too much moisture.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, it is naturally low in calories and rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats from olive oil.
Can I serve this with grilled dishes?
Yes, it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
What’s the best way to slice tomatoes evenly?
Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently to avoid crushing the flesh.
Conclusion
Tomato & Red Onion Salad is a timeless classic that proves simple ingredients can create bold, refreshing flavors. With minimal preparation and maximum taste, this salad is perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. Fresh, colorful, and full of natural goodness, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again.
This Tomato & Red Onion Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring juicy ripe tomatoes, crisp red onions, fresh parsley, and a light olive oil dressing. Simple, wholesome, and full of natural flavor, it’s the perfect quick side dish for any meal.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:10 minutes
Yield:4 side servings
Category:Salad
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds or wedges
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or balsamic vinegar (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
Wash and dry the tomatoes thoroughly. Slice into even rounds or wedges and place in a large mixing bowl.
Peel and thinly slice the red onion. Add it to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley evenly over the vegetables.
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the salad. Add lemon juice or balsamic vinegar if using.
Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Gently toss using salad tongs or clean hands, being careful not to break the tomatoes.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.
Notes
For milder onion flavor, soak sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain before adding.
Salt just before serving to prevent excess moisture release.
Cherry or grape tomatoes can be substituted, halved.
Best served fresh but can be stored refrigerated up to 24 hours.
