Heirloom Tomato Salad
This heirloom tomato salad is a summer staple in every Italian kitchen. Made with ripe heirloom tomatoes, sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and plenty of extra virgin olive oil, it's the kind of simple recipe that celebrates peak tomato season.
Growing up, we always had tomato salad on the table whenever tomatoes were at their best, served in large rustic chunks that allowed their natural sweetness and juiciness to shine. Fresh basil and lemon balm add brightness and freshness, while dried oregano, parsley, and a touch of lemon bring everything together. It's simple, vibrant, and packed with the flavors of summer.
Heirloom Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 1 large heirloom tomato, cored and cut into large chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp kosher salt, or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- 2–3 tbsp fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon balm, roughly chopped
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- 1
Cut the heirloom tomato in half, remove the core, and cut into large rustic chunks. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried parsley, chopped basil, lemon balm, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- 3
Mix together the dressing until well combined.
- 4
Add the heirloom tomatoes and cherry tomatoes to the bowl and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- 5
Transfer to a serving platter, spooning any remaining dressing and juices over the top.
Lauren's Note
- I like to let the salad marinate for 20–30 minutes before serving to allow the tomatoes to release their juices and the flavors to meld together for the best flavor.
- This salad is best enjoyed during peak tomato season when heirloom tomatoes are at their sweetest and juiciest.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. In fact, this salad tastes even better after sitting for 20–30 minutes, which allows the tomatoes to release their juices and the flavors to meld together. For the freshest texture, serve it within a few hours of making it.
Heirloom tomatoes are ideal because of their sweet, rich flavor and juicy texture. You can also use beefsteak, vine-ripened, or a mix of colorful heirloom varieties.
Absolutely. If you can't find lemon balm, simply add a little extra basil or a small amount of fresh mint for a different but equally refreshing flavor.
Yes. Fresh herbs add a brighter flavor, while dried herbs provide a more concentrated taste. Both work well in this salad. Just be sure to use 3 times less dried herbs than fresh herbs when making substitutions.
