Description
This Cherry Tomato Onion Salad with Balsamic is a fresh, vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for a quick and easy summer side. Featuring sweet cherry tomatoes, tangy red onions, and a flavorful balsamic dressing, it’s light, healthy, and full of bright, balanced flavors. A touch of honey adds subtle sweetness while fresh basil or parsley lends a fragrant herbal note, making it an ideal accompaniment for grilled meats or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables. In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion, ensuring they are evenly mixed to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or sugar), salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Toss salad with dressing. Pour the prepared dressing over the tomato and onion mixture and toss gently so every piece is lightly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Add fresh herbs. Sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil or parsley if using, to impart fresh herbal notes and enhance the salad’s aroma.
- Let rest before serving. Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving, giving the ingredients time to marry and deepen in flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best taste and juiciness.
- This salad is delicious when served at room temperature, which helps bring out the flavors.
- Perfect as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or crusty artisan breads.
