Strawberry and Tomato Salad Recipe
If you’re craving a vibrant dish that bursts with fresh flavors and stunning colors, this Strawberry and Tomato Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a delightful harmony of sweet strawberries, juicy tomatoes, and a touch of tangy balsamic dressing, all rounded out with fresh basil and optional creamy feta. This salad is light, refreshing, and perfect for those warm days when you want something healthy yet indulgent. Each bite offers a beautiful mix of textures and tastes that make it feel like a special treat, even though it comes together in just minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by how simple the ingredient list is — each component plays a crucial role in making this salad sing. From the sweetness of the strawberries to the crisp bite of cucumber, and the aromatic freshness of basil, these ingredients blend together to create a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- Fresh strawberries, 1 pint, hulled and sliced: They bring natural sweetness and vibrant red color to brighten the salad.
- Cherry tomatoes, 1 cup, halved: Their juicy pop adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Cucumber, 1/2, thinly sliced (optional): Adds an optional cool crunch, great for textural contrast.
- Red onion, 1/4, thinly sliced: Adds a mild zing and a bit of sharpness to keep things interesting.
- Fresh basil, 1/4 cup, chopped or whole leaves: Provides an herbaceous, fragrant note that ties all the flavors together.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: The base of the dressing, giving richness and smoothness.
- Balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon (or apple cider vinegar): Adds acidity and a touch of tang, elevating the sweetness of the fruit.
- Honey, 1 teaspoon (optional): A gentle hint of extra sweetness to balance the acidity if desired.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup (optional): Adds creamy texture and a salty, savory punch.
How to Make Strawberry and Tomato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits
Start by carefully slicing your strawberries and cherry tomatoes to the perfect size – you want each piece bite-sized but still sturdy enough to handle gentle tossing. If you choose to include cucumber, thin slices work best so they add just the right crunch without overpowering the other textures. Thinly slice the red onion for a subtle savory note that cuts through the sweetness effortlessly.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Place the prepared strawberries, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into a large mixing bowl. This is where all the colors and flavors start coming together, giving you that irresistible fresh look and inviting aroma.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), honey if you’re using it, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust so your dressing has just the right balance of sweetness and acidity. This simple dressing is key to bringing the salad to life by tying all the ingredients together beautifully.
Step 4: Toss the Salad Gently
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently using a large spoon or salad tongs. The key here is to handle everything with care so the strawberries and tomatoes don’t get mashed but get evenly coated with that delicious dressing instead.
Step 5: Add Basil and Feta Cheese
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the salad for an extra layer of fresh flavor. If you love a little creaminess, crumbled feta cheese is a dreamy addition that adds a salty contrast and wonderfully creamy texture.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
This salad is best enjoyed fresh! Serve it right away as a light starter, a vibrant side dish, or even a refreshing main for warmer days. It’s simplicity done perfectly.
How to Serve Strawberry and Tomato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or even a few microgreens on top make a visually stunning finish. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate the flavors even more. Don’t hesitate to play with garnishes to make your presentation pop.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, crusty bread, or even alongside a light pasta dish. Its freshness and acidity provide a wonderful balance to richer mains or hearty sides, making it a versatile companion at any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For something fun, serve the salad in hollowed-out heirloom tomatoes or in small glass jars for picnics or parties. Layering the ingredients in a trifle dish for a salad parfait look can make your Strawberry and Tomato Salad Recipe feel extra special and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within a day as the fresh strawberries and tomatoes begin to lose their texture after resting too long with the dressing.
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well due to the fresh fruit and vegetable content. Freezing will cause the strawberries and tomatoes to become mushy and lose their delightful texture.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold and fresh, reheating is not recommended. Instead, give leftovers a gentle stir and enjoy them chilled again within 24 hours for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes in this salad?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes are great for their sweetness and size, but heirloom tomatoes or grape tomatoes can add different flavors and textures, so feel free to experiment.
Is it necessary to add feta cheese?
Feta cheese is optional, but it adds a wonderful creamy and salty contrast. If you prefer a vegan version, simply omit it or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to toss the salad with dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What can I substitute for basil if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have fresh basil, mint or fresh oregano can be interesting substitutes that still bring a lively herbal note to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, the Strawberry and Tomato Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful choice for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry and Tomato Salad Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels rewarding with very little effort. It’s fresh, colorful, and packs layers of flavor that will brighten any meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy it is to create something so delicious and comforting in minutes. Trust me, it’s going to become one of your favorite go-to salads too!
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Strawberry and Tomato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry and Tomato Salad combining sweet strawberries, juicy tomatoes, and crisp cucumber, tossed with a tangy balsamic dressing and fresh basil. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a light starter or a healthy side dish, enhanced with optional creamy feta cheese for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or heirloom tomatoes for more flavor)
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or whole leaves for garnish)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables and Fruits: Slice the strawberries and halved cherry tomatoes. If using cucumber, cut it into thin slices. Thinly slice the red onion to prepare all salad components.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the sliced strawberries, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large mixing bowl, ready for dressing.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), honey if using, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning to preference.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine without mashing the delicate strawberries and tomatoes.
- Add Garnishes: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil and crumbled feta cheese on top to add freshness and creaminess.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a light starter, side dish, or a refreshing standalone meal.
Notes
- Use heirloom tomatoes for a richer, sweeter flavor.
- Omit feta cheese to make the salad vegan.
- Add extra herbs like mint or parsley for different flavor profiles.
- Serve the salad chilled for a more refreshing taste.
- The cucumber is optional but adds a nice crunch to balance the softness of the strawberries and tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
