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Easy Tomato Salad with Fresh Basil Recipe

Easy Tomato Salad with Fresh Basil

A fresh, no-cook salad made with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Optional red onion, garlic, or mozzarella makes this versatile side easy to customize.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds Ripe tomatoes, about 4 large
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar or red-wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
Optional Additions
  • 1/4 cup Red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 small clove Garlic clove, finely minced
  • 2-4 ounces Fresh mozzarella or bocconcini

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Wash and dry the tomatoes thoroughly. Remove the cores, then cut the tomatoes into wedges or bite-size chunks.
  2. Place the tomatoes in a serving bowl and add the fresh basil and optional red onion. Add the minced garlic or mozzarella if using.
  3. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil and vinegar. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Toss gently with a large spoon so the tomatoes stay intact and do not become crushed.
  5. Let the salad stand at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes, then toss once more and serve.

Notes

Season shortly before serving because salt draws moisture from tomatoes. Use fully ripe tomatoes at room temperature, high-quality olive oil, and fresh basil added close to serving. Refrigerate leftovers if needed, but allow them to come back toward room temperature before eating.