Description
A refreshing and vibrant Cherry Tomato Onion Salad dressed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, perfect as a side dish or a light snack. This easy-to-make salad highlights the sweet juiciness of cherry tomatoes paired with sharp red onions, balanced by a touch of honey and olive oil, and can be customized with cheese, fresh herbs, or olives for added flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or quartered if large)
- ½ small red onion, very thinly sliced
Dressing Ingredients
- 2–3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze for sweeter depth)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan
- Fresh mozzarella pearls
- Kalamata olives
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prep the Veggies: Place the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes and very thinly sliced red onion into a large serving bowl, preparing the salad base.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup if using, salt, and cracked black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful vinaigrette.
- Toss & Rest: Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and onions and gently toss to evenly coat. Allow the salad to rest for 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors meld together and the tomatoes release their juices, enhancing the salad’s taste.
- Finish & Serve: Add optional ingredients such as torn basil leaves, crumbled cheeses, mozzarella pearls, olives, or a pinch of red pepper flakes as desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
- If the raw red onion flavor is too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 5–10 minutes, then drain to mellow the sharpness.
- Use room-temperature tomatoes to maximize the salad’s sweetness and flavor.
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze added at the end can provide a deliciously sweet finish.
- This salad pairs excellently with grilled steak, chicken, or fish, and can be served over toasted sourdough or tossed with pasta for a quick meal.
