Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors
- Creamy yet light dressing enhances natural sweetness
- Easy to prepare in just minutes
- Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
- Perfect side for summer meals or casual lunches
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups sliced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped basil leaves
- 1/2 sweet onion, cut lengthwise
- 2 to 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare Tomatoes: Cut tomatoes in half, then slice each half into small bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare Onion: Trim both ends of the sweet onion, then slice it lengthwise.
- Chop Basil: Thinly slice basil leaves into strips.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the tomatoes, onions, and basil with 2-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine.
- Serve: Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 3 cups of salad
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Add cucumber slices for extra crunch and freshness.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangier, lighter dressing.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Toss in a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.
Storage/Reheating
- Best served fresh.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 1 day.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, any ripe tomatoes, including cherry or grape, work well.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or plant-based yogurt.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
It’s best served immediately, but can be made a few hours ahead if refrigerated.
How spicy is this salad?
It’s mild, but add a pinch of chili flakes for heat if desired.
Can I add other herbs?
Fresh parsley or oregano complement the flavors nicely.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I reduce the mayonnaise?
Yes, reduce or replace with yogurt for a lighter option.
How long does it keep?
Best eaten the same day for freshness and texture.
Can I add protein?
Toss in cooked shrimp or grilled chicken to make it a light meal.
What pairs well with this salad?
Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or crusty bread.
Conclusion
Creamy Tomato Basil & Sweet Onion Salad is a quick, fresh, and flavorful addition to any meal. The combination of juicy tomatoes, sweet onion, and fragrant basil tossed in a creamy dressing makes it a perfect summer dish or anytime light salad. Easy to make and utterly delicious!
Creamy Tomato Basil & Sweet Onion Salad: Fresh and Flavorful
Creamy Tomato Basil & Sweet Onion Salad is a fresh, vibrant salad featuring heirloom tomatoes, aromatic basil, and sweet onions tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Perfect as a light, quick-to-make side or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 3 cups of salad
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped basil leaves
- 1/2 sweet onion, cut lengthwise
- 2 to 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cut tomatoes in half, then slice each half into small bite-sized pieces.
- Trim both ends of the sweet onion, then slice it lengthwise.
- Thinly slice basil leaves into strips.
- In a bowl, mix the tomatoes, onions, and basil with 2-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Notes
- Add cucumber slices for extra crunch and freshness.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangier, lighter dressing.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Toss in a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
