Grape Tomato Salad ~

Garden fresh tomatoes and herbs in a simple vinaigrette.

Serve with Caprese Burgers or Pasta Aglio e Olio.

Table of Contents

Simple Side Dish for Summer

I like this simple tomato salad recipe because it’s easy to put together in minutes and has a summery blend of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy grape tomatoes are complemented by the rich olive oil and tangy vinegar, while the fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic finish. The slight sweetness from the sugar balances the acidity, creating a perfectly balanced summer dish.

This salad is also versatile. While the marinated tomatoes are delicious on their own, they are also tasty tossed in a green salad or added to pasta as a component of a main dish.

Tomato Season

Tomato season typically peaks during the summer months, making it the best time to enjoy the freshest and most flavorful tomatoes. From June through September, tomatoes are at their best, offering a sweet and juicy taste that is hard to beat. This is when the grocery store, local farmers’ markets, and home gardens are overflowing with an abundance of ripe tomatoes, providing a perfect opportunity to make the most of their vibrant flavors in salads, sauces, and other dishes.

Ingredients for Grape Tomato Salad

You will need the following:

4 cups grape tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
2 teaspoons fresh basil, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh oregano, finely chopped

Ingredient Notes

Grape Tomatoes: These small, sweet tomatoes are ideal for salads because they have a firm texture and a burst of juicy flavor. You can also use cherry tomatoes for a similar taste and texture or mix in heirloom tomatoes for a more colorful and robust flavor profile. Roma tomatoes are another option, offering a meaty texture and slightly tangy taste. Larger tomatoes tend to be more watery and are not recommended.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits. It forms the base of the dressing and helps carry the flavors of the herbs.
White Vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and sugar. It’s essential for creating a well-rounded vinaigrette. White wine vinegar also works well for this recipe. Red wine vinegar and balsamic vinegar overpower the delicate sweetness of the tomatoes and are not recommended.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. Adjust to taste based on your preference.
Granulated Sugar: Just a touch to balance the acidity of the vinegar and enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a mild, peppery flavor that complements the other herbs.
Basil: Fresh basil provides a sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.
Oregano: Fresh oregano adds a robust, earthy flavor, rounding out the herb mix in this salad.

How to Make Grape Tomato Salad

STEP ONE: Prep the Tomatoes. Cut grape tomatoes into bite-size pieces, halving or quartering them as needed. Place in a medium bowl.

STEP TWO: Make the Dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white vinegar, salt, and granulated sugar.

STEP THREE: Combine. Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss gently to coat.

STEP FOUR: Add Herbs. Sprinkle chopped parsley, basil, and oregano over the salad and toss again.

STEP FIVE: Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to overnight, to let the flavors develop. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Grape Tomato Salad

Tomato Prep: Ensure the tomatoes are ripe for the best flavor. Halve or quarter them depending on size.
Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs for the best and most vibrant flavor.
Marinating Time: Allowing the salad to marinate for at least 2 hours helps meld the flavors together. Overnight is even better!

FAQ

Can I use a different type of tomato? Yes, ripe cherry tomatoes or any small, sweet tomato variety will work well.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Sliced cucumber, bell pepper, or red onion all make great additions.
What other ingredients can I add to bulk up this salad? The simple ingredients in this summer salad make it easy to customize. In addition to veggies, try adding crumbled feta cheese, fresh mozzarella balls, or diced avocado.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for several days. This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

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