Refreshing Spanish Tomato Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this Spanish Tomato Salad combines basic ingredients to create something incredibly fresh and flavorful. The tomatoes are the star of the show, and the dressing enhances their natural sweetness without overpowering them. It’s the kind of salad that’s both simple and elegant, yet packs a punch with the rich olive oil and the slight tang from the sherry vinegar. The addition of fresh parsley and a sprinkle of oregano adds a wonderful depth of flavor, making this a truly refreshing dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything. Plus, it’s quick to make—just 10 minutes!

Ingredients

2 large tomatoes

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1/2 tbsp sherry vinegar

1 clove garlic

1 tsp dried oregano

Handful of finely chopped parsley

Sea salt and black pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Tomatoes: Thinly slice the tomatoes into 1/8-inch thick slices and place them in a single layer on a plate. Season with sea salt and black pepper on just one side, then let the tomatoes sit for about 5 minutes to release some of their water.

Make the Dressing: While the tomatoes sit, combine 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 tbsp of sherry vinegar, 1 finely grated clove of garlic, 1 tsp of dried oregano, and a pinch of sea salt and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk together until the ingredients are well mixed.

Assemble the Salad: After the tomatoes have sat for 5 minutes, gently shake off any excess water. Transfer them to a serving dish, drizzle the prepared dressing over the tomatoes, and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley.

Serve and Enjoy: The salad is ready to enjoy immediately! It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

No cooking required

Variations

Herb Substitutes: If I don’t have parsley, I’ll often use fresh basil or cilantro for a slightly different flavor profile.

Add Some Cheese: Sometimes, I like to add a few crumbles of feta or goat cheese for a creamier element that balances the acidity of the vinegar.

Spicy Kick: If I’m in the mood for something spicy, I’ll add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle heat.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed immediately, as the tomatoes release water and can soften if stored for too long. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, though the texture of the tomatoes will soften over time.

I wouldn’t recommend reheating this salad as it’s meant to be served fresh and chilled.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

This salad is best served fresh to maintain the texture of the tomatoes. However, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just slice the tomatoes and combine everything.

Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of sherry vinegar?

Yes! If you don’t have sherry vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor, though sherry vinegar gives it a unique Mediterranean flair.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

While this recipe highlights the simplicity of tomatoes, I sometimes like to add sliced cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

How do I choose the best tomatoes for this salad?

I recommend using ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom tomatoes or vine-ripened tomatoes work particularly well in this salad, offering natural sweetness and a tender texture.

Can I make this salad without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can easily omit it. The dressing will still be delicious, though the garlic does add a nice depth of flavor.

Conclusion

The Refreshing Spanish Tomato Salad is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a dish bursting with flavor. The juicy tomatoes, light dressing, and fresh herbs make it a wonderful addition to any meal, whether as a side dish or a refreshing snack. I love how easy it is to prepare and how it always impresses with its clean, vibrant taste. Try it out next time you want something quick, fresh, and absolutely delicious!

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