Heirloom tomato salad

Heirloom tomato salad is a vibrant dish that highlights the freshness of ripe tomatoes, enhanced by a simple dressing of olive oil, vinegar, and sugar. It's an easy-to-make salad perfect for light lunches or as a side to any meal.

19 Dec 2025
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

6 tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tsp sugar

Heirloom tomato salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that showcases the natural flavors of fresh tomatoes. It's simple to make and perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a summery appetizer. This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the tanginess of vinegar and the richness of olive oil.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Rinse the heirloom tomatoes under cold running water.
- Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Cut the tomatoes into wedges or slices, depending on your preference, and place them in a large salad bowl.

2. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, vinegar, and sugar.
- Whisk or shake the mixture vigorously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is well combined.

3. Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the sliced tomatoes in the salad bowl.
- Gently toss the tomatoes to ensure they are evenly coated with the dressing.

4. Season and Garnish:
- Optional: Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional: Add fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley for additional flavor and visual appeal.

5. Serve:
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the heirloom tomato salad at room temperature or slightly chilled as a refreshing side dish.

This heirloom tomato salad is an easy yet delightful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes. Whether served on its own or as part of a larger meal, this dish is sure to be a hit with its simple ingredients and robust taste.

Heirloom tomato salad FAQ:

How long can I store heirloom tomato salad?

Heirloom tomato salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The tomatoes may become mushy after that.

What kind of vinegar works best for the dressing?

You can use any vinegar you prefer, such as balsamic, red wine, or white wine vinegar. Balsamic vinegar adds a sweeter flavor, while red or white wine vinegar will give a more tangy taste.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the salad?

Yes, you can substitute the olive oil with another type of oil like avocado oil or canola oil. You can also omit the sugar or replace it with honey or a sugar alternative if desired.

How do I know when the tomatoes are ripe enough to use?

Ripe heirloom tomatoes should feel slightly soft to the touch and have a vibrant color. They should also emit a sweet fragrance. Avoid tomatoes that are overly firm or have blemishes.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to the heirloom tomato salad?

Absolutely! Consider adding sliced cucumbers, red onions, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. Feta cheese or mozzarella can also enhance the salad.

Tips:

- To enhance the flavor, use a mix of different types of heirloom tomatoes for a variety of colors and tastes.

- Allow the salad to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes before serving, so the flavors meld together.

- Sprinkle a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added burst of freshness.

- Consider adding thinly sliced red onions or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 27kcal
Protein 1.14g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 1.56g
Sugar 4.27g
Fat 10g

Heirloom tomato salad