Heirloom Tomato Salad

Sometimes simple is best, and this heirloom tomato salad abides by that principle. This straight-forward tomato side salad lets sweet seasonal heirloom tomatoes shine in all their colorful glory. In-season tomatoes are crucial. If you can’t find heirlooms, cherry tomatoes would also work well.

The mustardy vinaigrette is the perfect punchy dressing to contrast the natural sweetness of the basil and tomatoes. If you have time, gently toss the tomatoes with the dressing, and let the flavors meld for about 20 minutes.

Learn how to make heirloom tomato You can serve this salad as a side to any protein, but it’s particularly lovely with grilled steak or seafood.

Ingredients for Heirloom Tomato Salad

The flavor of ripe heirloom tomatoes is further elevated by adding vinegar, mustard, honey, shallot, and basil into the mix. To make heirloom tomato salad, you'll need:

• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a fruity acidity to brighten the flavor of the tomatoes.
• Dijon mustard: For a subtle tanginess and to help emulsify the dressing.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Honey: A touch of sweetness to round out the dressing.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and an earthy flavor.
• Shallot: A subtle oniony flavor for a savory touch.
• Heirloom tomatoes: The star of the dish, heirloom tomatoes are prized for their complex taste and colorful appearance.
• Fresh basil: Adds an herbaceous touch that complements the tomatoes, as well as a nice pop of green.

How To Make Heirloom Tomato Salad

Simply whisk or shake up the dressing in a jar with a tight-fitting lid, then drizzle over fresh tomatoes, and you're ready to serve. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Prepare dressing: Whisk to combine vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper, and honey in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in olive oil. Stir in shallot.
• Step 2. Arrange salad: Arrange tomatoes on a serving platter. Top evenly with dressing and garnish with basil.

Heirloom Tomato Salad Variations

This simple salad can be taken in a multitude of directions, including turning it into a main course. To add a twist to heirloom tomato salad, consider these variation ideas:

• Tomatoes: Use a variety of tomatoes for contrasts in flavor, color, and texture.
• Herbs: Add other types of herbs, including parsley, cilantro, mint, or thyme, for depth and complexity.
• Cheese: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese, or mozzarella pearls for a creamy addition.
• Additions: Add thinly sliced red onions, cucumbers, avocado, or olives for extra interest.
• Vinegar: Swap the apple cider vinegar with balsamic or other types of vinegars, if preferred.
• Crunch: Add croutons, toasted pine nuts, almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a light crunch.
• Greens: Toss in arugula or spinach to bulk up the salad.
• Main course: Turn this salad into a main course by adding in shredded chicken, sliced steak, grilled fish, or crispy bacon, or bulk it up with quinoa, farro, couscous, or other grains.

Can I Make Heirloom Tomato Salad Ahead?

This salad comes together quickly, but to have it ready to go before dinnertime arrives, prepare the dressing up to two days in advance. Store in an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid in the refrigerator. Arrange the tomatoes on the platter up to a few hours ahead, and store wrapped in the refrigerator. Top with dressing before serving.

What To Serve With Heirloom Tomato Salad

Pair this summer-y meal with grilled veggies, grilled chicken, steak, fish, or seafood. Serve with crusty bread, pasta, soup, couscous or quinoa salad. It also pairs well with a cheese board as an appetizer, or with a quiche or frittata for brunch.

More Fresh Tomato Salad Recipes You'll Love

Incorporating ripe, in-season tomatoes into salad recipes is an excellent way to infuse your next lunch or dinner with a burst of freshness and flavor.

• Tomato-Mozzarella Salad
• Roasted Pepper-Tomato Salad with Crispy Black-Eyed Peas
• Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad
• Cucumber-Tomato Avocado Salad
• Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad
• Heirloom Tomato-Cracker Salad
• Tomato-and-Watermelon Salad
• Corn-and-Tomato Salad

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.