Fresh and delicious Cherry Tomato Salad made with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing. Bright, easy, and perfect for summer.
author’s note
My Mom’s Garden Inspired This Cherry Tomato Salad!
Every summer my mom’s garden overflows with tomatoes and zucchini. I often leave with bags full of produce. While the zucchini becomes muffins, breads, or quick pasta dinners, the tomatoes almost always end up in this salad.
The first time I made this Cherry Tomato Salad it was a simple throw-everything-in-a-bowl lunch—just ripe tomatoes, a bit of basil, and a light dressing. After sharing it online, readers asked for the recipe, and I realized how much people appreciate straightforward, fresh flavors.
What I love about this salad is how easy it is to adapt. I often toss in mozzarella pearls, avocado, grilled corn, or cucumbers, but the base—tomatoes, basil, shallot, olive oil, and vinegar—always shines.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Swaps & Tips |
|---|---|
| Cherry Tomatoes | Use mixed-color cherry tomatoes for the most visual appeal and flavor. If you have an abundance of tomatoes, try them in other simple dishes. |
| Vine-Ripened Tomatoes | Heirloom tomatoes work beautifully when available. |
| Fresh Basil | Add basil just before serving so it stays bright and fragrant. |
| Shallot | Diced red onion can be used instead, or omit if you prefer no onion. |
| Olive Oil | Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil—you’ll notice the difference. |
| Red Wine Vinegar | Apple cider vinegar or a splash of balsamic can be used for a slightly different acidity. |
How To Make This Cherry Tomato Salad
- Prep the tomatoes: Halve cherry tomatoes and cut larger tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Add aromatics: Sprinkle the minced shallot, garlic, and sliced basil over the tomatoes.
- Dress: Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar evenly over the tomatoes.
- Toss gently: Combine everything carefully so the tomatoes stay intact.
- Adjust: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Let the salad rest briefly for best flavor.
Variations
Change Things Up!
There are many ways to customize this salad. A few ideas:
- Cheese: Add fresh mozzarella balls or slices for a Caprese-style salad.
- Cucumbers: Thinly sliced cucumbers add crunch and freshness.
- Avocado: Diced avocado gives a creamy texture.
- Sweet finish: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweetness and depth.
- Grilled corn: Toss in grilled corn kernels for a smoky note.
chelsea’s recipe tip
My Favorite Trick For Extra Flavor
After tossing, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. The tomatoes release their juices, which combine with the oil and vinegar to form a fresh, flavorful dressing at the bottom of the bowl.
Don’t waste those juices—serve with crusty bread to soak them up.
Storage
For the best texture and flavor, enjoy this salad within a few hours of making. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator and consume within a day or two.
More Easy Salad Recipes:
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Avocado Chicken Salad
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Smashed Cucumber Salad Recipe
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Chick-Fil-A Kale Salad
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Tuna And White Bean Salad
Cherry Tomato Salad
Equipment
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups (1 pint) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups (1 pound) tomatoes, core removed and chopped
- 1 tablespoon finely minced shallot (about 1/2 shallot)
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut all the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and add them to a large bowl.
- Sprinkle the minced shallot, garlic, and basil over the tomatoes. Drizzle the olive oil and vinegar evenly on top.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper as needed (start with about 1/2 teaspoon of each). Taste and adjust.
- Serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed within a couple of hours of making.
Recipe Notes
Tip: Because this salad uses so few ingredients, choose the best tomatoes and olive oil you can find for the most flavorful result.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
What To Serve With Cherry Tomato Salad
Simple, complementary options to serve alongside this salad:
- Grilled Chicken: The fresh flavors pair beautifully with simply seasoned grilled chicken.
- Crusty Bread: Baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the dressing.
- Pasta: A light pasta or orzo salad pairs well for a fuller meal.
- Fish: Grilled or baked fish like salmon or cod complements the salad’s brightness.
- Steak: A juicy steak is a hearty main that balances the salad’s freshness.