Bright, refreshing, and bursting with garden-fresh flavor, this Vegan Fresh Tomato and Onion Salad is a celebration of simplicity. Juicy ripe tomatoes, crisp red onion, and fragrant fresh basil come together in a harmonious medley, all lightly dressed with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette for a perfect balance of tang and richness. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, this dish highlights wholesome ingredients and is naturally gluten-free, plant-based, and loaded with vibrant colors and nutrients. Whether you're serving it as a light appetizer, a side to your summer barbecue, or a standalone salad, this recipe is an effortless way to enjoy the best of seasonal produce. Don't forget the optional hint of garlic for an extra layer of flavor!
Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Cut each tomato into wedges or slices, depending on your preference. If using cherry tomatoes, simply halve or quarter them. Transfer to a large salad bowl.
Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the slices in cold water for about 5 minutes to reduce the sharpness, then drain well.
Add the sliced red onion to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Gently tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over the tomato and onion mixture.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until emulsified. Season with the sea salt and black pepper, and add the minced garlic if you'd like a hint of garlic flavor.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to combine and ensure all ingredients are coated in the dressing.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve the salad immediately at room temperature for optimal flavor.
Calories |
396 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.2 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.0 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1196 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.9 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.3 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.9 g | ||
| Protein | 6.3 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 102 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 1414 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.