Creamy Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Salad offers a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic garden favorite. With ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a luscious creamy dressing, it’s a perfect side dish for warm days or any meal needing a bright, satisfying lift.

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ½ cup creamy dressing of choice (such as yogurt or mayonnaise)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, then place them in a large salad bowl.
2. Step 2: Mince the garlic cloves finely and add them to the tomatoes.
3. Step 3: Add the chopped basil to the mixture for an aromatic boost.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the creamy dressing, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar until well combined.
5. Step 5: Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
7. Step 7: Optionally, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor.
8. Step 8: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• Use Greek yogurt for a tangier dressing or mayonnaise for a richer texture.
• Swap fresh basil with fresh oregano or parsley for a different herb profile.
• Add thinly sliced red onion or cucumber for extra crunch.
• For a vegan option, use a plant-based creamy dressing and skip the parmesan cheese.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tomatoes may release some water over time, so give the salad a gentle toss before serving. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and fresh but can be served at room temperature if preferred.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop. It keeps well for up to 2 days, though the tomatoes may soften slightly over time.

What type of tomatoes work best?

Ripe, firm tomatoes such as Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes hold their shape well and provide sweet, juicy flavor perfect for this salad.

Creamy Tomato Garlic Salad Recipe

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This Creamy Tomato Garlic Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish combining ripe tomatoes, minced garlic, and fresh basil tossed in a luscious creamy dressing made with yogurt or mayonnaise, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. It’s a perfect side salad that is both refreshing and rich, ideal for warm weather meals or as a vibrant addition to any dining table.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

• ½ cup creamy dressing of choice (such as yogurt or mayonnaise)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional

• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped tomatoes into a large salad bowl.
2. Add Garlic: Finely mince the garlic cloves and add them to the tomatoes in the bowl to infuse the salad with a robust garlic flavor.
3. Mix in Basil: Chop the fresh basil and add it to the tomato and garlic mixture for a fresh aromatic lift.
4. Make Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine your choice of creamy dressing (yogurt or mayonnaise), olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
5. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the tomato mixture and toss gently, ensuring all the tomato pieces are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing carefully to distribute the seasoning throughout the salad.
7. Add Parmesan (Optional): Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top of the salad for an extra layer of flavor, if desired.
8. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to make the salad lighter and add a tangy flavor.
• Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference for a milder or stronger garlic taste.
• The salad is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Adding fresh herbs such as oregano or thyme can add another layer of flavor if desired.
• For a vegan version, use a plant-based creamy dressing and omit the parmesan cheese.

Keywords: creamy tomato salad, garlic salad, tomato garlic salad, vegetarian salad, Mediterranean salad, no-cook salad