Looking for a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and is incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further than Melissa's Tomato Onion Salad! This vibrant, American-inspired salad combines juicy tomatoes and crisp red onions, drizzled with a zesty olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a light side dish, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad that will have your guests asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the tomatoes into even, thin rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Arrange the tomato slices on a serving platter.
- Peel the red onion and cut off both ends. Slice the onion very thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to create delicate, translucent rings.
- Separate the onion rings and distribute them evenly over the tomato slices, creating a beautiful layered pattern.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar until well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Drizzle the olive oil and vinegar mixture evenly over the tomatoes and onions.
- Season the salad generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve immediately as a fresh, light side dish or accompaniment to main courses.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: For the best flavor, select ripe, in-season tomatoes. Heirloom varieties can add unique colors and tastes to your salad.
- Slice Evenly: When slicing the tomatoes and onions, aim for uniform thickness to ensure a consistent texture and presentation.
- Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes after dressing it. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Consider tossing in some fresh basil or parsley for an added layer of flavor and a pop of color.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning! Add more vinegar for tanginess or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity if desired.
- Serve Chilled: For an extra refreshing experience, chill the salad in the refrigerator for a short time before serving.
- Pair with Grilled Dishes: This salad makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled chicken, fish, or even as a topping for bruschetta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 181kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
