Bursting with vibrant flavors and packed with nutrients, this **Heart-Healthy Fresh Tomato and Onion Salad** is the perfect quick and easy side dish for any meal. Juicy, ripe tomatoes and crisp red onions form the base of this salad, while fragrant hand-torn basil leaves infuse it with fresh, herbaceous notes. Tossed in a light and tangy dressing made of extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this salad is seasoned simply with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of sea salt to let the fresh ingredients shine. With just 15 minutes of prep time, no cooking required, and a focus on heart-healthy ingredients, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious. Serve it as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats, with crusty bread for a light lunch, or on its own as a guilt-free snack. Ideal for summer gatherings or a health-conscious lifestyle, this salad proves that simplicity can be sensational. **Keywords: tomato salad, healthy salad recipe, fresh tomato recipes, quick side dish, heart-healthy recipe, summer salad ideas**.
Start by washing the tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly under cold running water.
Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. You can quarter them or slice them into wedges depending on your preference.
Peel the red onion and slice it thinly into rings or half-moons.
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes and onions.
Tear the basil leaves by hand into small pieces to release their aroma and add them to the bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Pour this dressing over the tomato and onion mixture.
Season the salad with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of sea salt, adjusting to taste.
Toss everything gently to ensure the tomatoes and onions are well coated with the dressing and seasoning.
Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
Serve the salad immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes to enjoy it chilled.
Calories |
398 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.2 g | 36% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8 g | 19% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 615 mg | 27% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.0 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.6 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.7 g | ||
| Protein | 6.3 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 100 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 1426 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.