Comprised of simple, fresh ingredients this easy Heirloom Tomato Salad recipe tastes like summer on a plate.
One thing I love about this time of year is the supply of ripe, juicy tomatoes. This no-fuss recipe really showcases their flavor–and color–in a simple, but elegant, fashion.
I’ve never had a problem with finding nourishing salads that actually taste good, but this one might take the cake (or tomato).
What is an Heirloom Tomato?
“Heirloom” refers not to a specific breed of tomato, but more to a tomato’s past. They are fruit from plants whose seeds have been passed down from season to season for at least 40 years or more.
Unlike your average supermarket tomato, heirlooms have not been selectively bred or modified for certain traits, like uniform color, resistance to pests, or size.
Instead, heirlooms are pollenated as nature intended: by the birds, bees, and open air.
The result is tomatoes that come in a crazy variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.
Generally speaking, they are juicier and sweeter than anything you’ll find in the grocery store.
Because of their un-modified heritage, heirlooms do not have a very long shelf life.
The best place to buy heirloom tomatoes is at a quality local farmer’s market during the summer months.
Another place to check is your neighbor’s home garden (always ask before plucking your neighbors tomatoes).
Recipe Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- heirloom tomatoes: about two pounds of ripe heirlooms. Choose a variety of different shapes and colors to really make this salad pop
- cherry tomatoes: you’ll also need a pint of cherry tomatoes. I recommend Sun Golds (truly the best cherry tomato).
- red onion
- fresh basil
- fresh mint
- fresh oregano: if fresh oregano is hard to find, you can substitute with dried oregano
- extra virgin olive oil
- white balsamic vinegar
- sea salt
- black pepper
How to Make Heirloom Tomato Salad
Start by slicing up about two pounds of heirloom tomatoes, a pint of cherry tomatoes, and some red onion.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Add the tomatoes and fresh herbs to the bowl and gently toss.
Allow the tomatoes to marinate for at least 10-20 minutes.
Give the salad another toss, season with more salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy!
What to Serve with Heirloom Tomato Salad
This salad is tasty enough on its own, but also makes a great accompaniment to all kinds of dishes.
Just a few serving suggestions are:
- Pair it with some grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
- Throw in some avocado and a protein of your choice. Serve on a bed of spinach or arugula for a nice entree salad.
- Toss in your favorite gluten-free pasta for an easy meal.
Storage
Store the heirloom tomato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving.
More Tasty Tomato Recipes
- Paleo Fried Green Tomatoes
- Sardine Puttanesca
- Sautéed Chard with Bacon and Tomatoes
- Roasted Corn Salad with Blistered Cherry Tomatoes
Heirloom Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 pounds heirloom tomatoes sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves roughly chopped or torn
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped
Instructions
- Whisk the olive oil, vinegar, sea salt, and pepper together in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the tomatoes, onion, and fresh herbs to the bowl and gently toss until combined.
- Allow the salad to marinate for at least 15 -20 minutes. Toss the salad again before serving.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
The ingredient or equipment sections above may contain affiliate links to products that I personally use or recommend!