Tomato Garlic Salad

 

Tomato Garlic Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Summer-Perfect

When summer tomatoes are at their peak, there’s no better way to enjoy them than in a simple, bold, and irresistibly fresh Tomato Garlic Salad. Bursting with juicy sweetness, sharp garlic, and a splash of tangy dressing, this salad celebrates the beauty of ripe tomatoes and lets their natural flavor shine.

It’s fast, easy, and made with ingredients you probably already have — yet it’s the kind of dish people remember and ask for again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Salad

• 🍅 Full of fresh flavor — ripe tomatoes, raw garlic, and herbs combine for a vibrant punch

• 🧄 Garlic lovers’ dream — raw garlic adds boldness and bite

• 🕒 Takes 10 minutes to make — quick, no-fuss prep

• 🥗 Naturally vegan & gluten-free

• 🌿 Perfect as a side or appetizer — great with grilled meats, crusty bread, or pasta

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Ingredients

This simple salad uses just a handful of pantry and garden staples:

• 4–5 ripe tomatoes (heirloom, Roma, cherry, or a mix), chopped or sliced

• 2–3 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: Fresh basil, parsley, or oregano, chopped

• Optional: Crumbled feta, vegan cheese, or sliced red onion for extra flavor

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Instructions

1. Prep the tomatoes:

Wash and cut your tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. If using cherry tomatoes, halve them. Place in a mixing bowl.

2. Add the garlic:

Mince the garlic finely (or use a microplane for a smooth paste) and sprinkle it over the tomatoes.

3. Dress it up:

Drizzle the olive oil and vinegar over the salad. Season generously with salt and pepper.

4. Toss and taste:

Gently toss everything together until well combined. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

5. Garnish and serve:

Top with fresh herbs, cheese (if using), or additional garlic if you're brave! Serve immediately or chill briefly.

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Tips for Best Results

• Use the freshest tomatoes you can find — this recipe is all about showcasing their flavor.

• Let it marinate for a few minutes before serving to mellow the garlic and blend flavors.

• Add bread — toss with toasted baguette slices or mix into a panzanella-style salad.

• Don’t skimp on the salt — it draws out the tomato juices and intensifies the flavor.

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Perfect Pairings

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish

• Spoon over toasted bread for a rustic bruschetta

• Pair with hummus, olives, and pita for a Mediterranean-inspired platter

• Enjoy as a topping for pasta, grain bowls, or wraps

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Final Thoughts

This Tomato Garlic Salad is the ultimate celebration of fresh, simple ingredients. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the kind of dish that reminds you why seasonal cooking is so satisfying. It’s bold, juicy, a little spicy from the garlic, and absolutely perfect for summer lunches, BBQs, or weeknight dinners.

Try it once, and it just might become your new warm-weather go-to.