The sweetness of summer cherry tomatoes bursts in your mouth with every bite, creating a perfect contrast to the tangy vinaigrette. It’s like tasting sunshine in every spoonful. When you toss these vibrant little gems with a handful of fresh basil, the earthy aroma from the herbs elevates the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a delicate crunch, balancing the juicy tomatoes and bright dressing. The salad is light yet packed with flavor—ideal for those warm evenings when you want something refreshing but satisfying. The beauty of this dish is that it’s not just about the tomatoes themselves; it’s about the simplicity of letting each ingredient shine without overcomplicating the flavors.
Key Ingredients in Summer Cherry Tomato Salad
The simplicity of this salad is what makes it truly special. Every ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the natural flavors and bring out the freshness of the season. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish sing:
* Cherry Tomatoes
These bite-sized gems are the heart of the salad. Their sweetness and juiciness provide a burst of flavor that perfectly balances the tangy vinaigrette and creamy mozzarella.
* Olive Oil
A rich and smooth base for the vinaigrette, olive oil adds a silky texture that coats the tomatoes and basil. It also helps bring all the flavors together without overpowering the freshness of the ingredients.
* Balsamic Vinegar
A dash of balsamic vinegar gives the salad a subtle tang and a hint of sweetness, rounding out the flavors. It adds depth to the dressing while letting the bright flavors of the tomatoes shine.
* Salt
The sprinkle of salt helps enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and creates a beautiful contrast with the tangy vinaigrette. Just the right amount brings out the true flavors of each ingredient.
* Black Pepper
A touch of black pepper adds a mild heat and a slight spice, elevating the other ingredients without overshadowing them. It’s a perfect seasoning that complements the freshness of the tomatoes and basil.
* Fresh Basil Leaves
Basil is the herb that takes this salad from simple to extraordinary. Its aromatic, peppery flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes, adding an herbal note that transports you to a sun-drenched garden.
* Red Onion
Thinly sliced red onions contribute a slight sharpness and a mild crunch, offering a lovely contrast to the soft mozzarella and juicy tomatoes. They also bring a pop of color to the salad, making it even more inviting.
* Mozzarella Balls
These creamy, soft mozzarella balls bring a luxurious texture to the salad. Their mild flavor balances the acidity of the dressing and provides a perfect complement to the tomatoes, adding richness and indulgence.
How to Make Summer Cherry Tomato Salad
1. Wash the cherry tomatoes under cold running water. This helps remove any dirt or pesticides, ensuring your tomatoes are clean and ready to shine in the salad.
2. Pat the tomatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Removing excess moisture is important so the dressing can cling to the tomatoes without becoming watered down.
3. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, ensuring the cuts are clean and even. This step allows the juices to release, making the salad more flavorful and visually appealing.
4. Place the halved cherry tomatoes into a medium-sized mixing bowl. This is where all the magic happens, so use a bowl that gives you enough room to toss everything together.
5. Pour one tablespoon of olive oil over the tomatoes. The olive oil provides a smooth base for the dressing and helps coat the tomatoes evenly.
6. Drizzle one teaspoon of balsamic vinegar on top of the tomatoes. This will add a slight tangy sweetness that complements the tomatoes and enhances their natural flavor.
7. Sprinkle half a teaspoon of salt over the tomatoes. A little salt goes a long way in bringing out the sweetness of the tomatoes and balancing the acidity of the vinegar.
8. Add a quarter teaspoon of black pepper to the bowl. The black pepper adds just a touch of warmth and complexity, rounding out the flavors without overpowering them.
9. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the bowl. The basil’s aromatic, peppery flavor will infuse the salad, lifting the freshness of the tomatoes to new heights.
10. Thinly slice a quarter cup of red onion and add the slices to the bowl. The onions bring a mild, crisp sharpness that contrasts perfectly with the juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella.
11. Add half a cup of mozzarella balls to the mixture. These soft, creamy mozzarella balls melt into the salad, providing a smooth, indulgent texture that balances the acidity.
12. Toss all ingredients gently in the bowl, making sure the tomatoes and mozzarella are coated evenly with the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings. Be careful not to crush the delicate tomatoes!
13. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. It’s always a good idea to check the flavors before serving, as everyone’s taste preferences are different.
14. Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor. This salad is best enjoyed right away when the ingredients are at their peak.
15. If you plan to store the salad, cover it and refrigerate for no more than a few hours to maintain the best texture and flavor. While it’s best fresh, you can keep it chilled for later enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions for Summer Cherry Tomato Salad
– Pair with Grilled Chicken: Serve this vibrant salad alongside grilled chicken for a light and satisfying meal. The smoky flavors of the chicken complement the fresh, juicy tomatoes beautifully, making it a perfect summer dinner option.
– Top with Fresh Mozzarella or Burrata: For an extra indulgent touch, add a dollop of creamy burrata or extra fresh mozzarella on top. The soft cheese melts into the salad, adding richness and creating a more luxurious texture with every bite.
– Serve with Crusty Bread: No summer meal is complete without a slice of crusty bread. Serve this salad with a warm baguette or ciabatta to soak up the tangy vinaigrette and juices from the tomatoes. It’s simple, but so satisfying!
Isn’t it incredible how a few simple ingredients can create something so delicious and versatile? How do you like to enjoy your summer salads? Let me know in the comments below!
How to Store Summer Cherry Tomato Salad
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, sometimes we’ve got leftovers (or we just want to make it ahead!). Here’s how to store it so it stays as tasty as possible:
– Refrigerate in an airtight container: If you have leftovers, store the salad in a sealed container to keep it fresh. This helps preserve the crispness of the veggies and prevents the flavors from getting muddled. Just make sure to eat it within a few hours to keep it tasting its best.
– Keep the dressing separate: If you plan to store the salad for a longer time, it’s best to separate the vinaigrette from the tomatoes and mozzarella. This prevents the tomatoes from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad right before serving.
– Avoid freezing: I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad, as the tomatoes and mozzarella will lose their texture once thawed. Fresh is always the way to go with this dish!
Storing it correctly means you can savor the flavors later, but just know it’s never quite the same as that first, fresh bite. How do you usually store your salads?
Conclusion
And there you have it—the perfect summer cherry tomato salad! This dish is all about simplicity, letting those gorgeous, juicy tomatoes shine with just a few fresh ingredients. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, pairing it with a grilled chicken dinner, or enjoying it on its own as a light lunch, this salad is sure to bring a burst of sunshine to your table.
I hope you’re as excited to try this recipe as I am! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of summer in every bite. And, if you’ve got any questions, need some tips, or want to share how your salad turned out, I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to drop your thoughts or feedback in the comments below.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every colorful, flavorful bite!
Summer Cherry Tomato Salad
Description
This Summer Cherry Tomato Salad bursts with vibrant, juicy tomatoes kissed by the sun, tossed with crisp cucumbers, fresh basil, and a zesty dressing. A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, it's the ideal refreshing bite for warm days.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Start by washing the cherry tomatoes under cold running water.
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Pat the tomatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
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Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, ensuring the cuts are clean and even.
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Place the halved cherry tomatoes into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
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Pour one tablespoon of olive oil over the tomatoes.
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Drizzle one teaspoon of balsamic vinegar on top of the tomatoes.
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Sprinkle half a teaspoon of salt over the tomatoes.
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Add a quarter teaspoon of black pepper to the bowl.
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Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the bowl.
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Thinly slice a quarter cup of red onion and add the slices to the bowl.
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Add half a cup of mozzarella balls to the mixture.
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Toss all ingredients gently in the bowl, making sure the tomatoes and mozzarella are coated evenly with the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings.
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Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
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Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor.
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If you plan to store the salad, cover it and refrigerate for no more than a few hours to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Note
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a drizzle of honey to the balsamic vinegar.
- For a creamy texture, replace mozzarella balls with burrata cheese.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make sure not to over-salt the salad, as the mozzarella can contribute saltiness.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a side for a summer picnic.
