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Cherry Tomato Salad

If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavorful side dish that’s as simple to make as it is delicious, look no further because this Cherry Tomato Salad is it.

Main image for Cherry Tomato Salad recipe. Salad in a bowl.

Cherry Tomato Salad combines sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes with crunchy cucumbers, briny olives, and creamy feta, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing that will tantalize your taste buds.

It’s the perfect companion for summer barbecues, family dinners, or a light snack.

I love a great salad with cherry tomatoes. There is something about perfectly ripe tomatoes tossed with other veggies and a vinaigrette dressing that I cannot resist.

And this cucumber and tomato salad has all the great flavors. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, tangy vinegar, and savory olives creates an irresistible flavor profile.

And it’s so fast and easy, too. With minimal prep and no cooking required, this cherry tomato and cucumber salad is perfect for busy days.

Packed with fresh veggies and healthy fats, this salad recipe with cherry tomatoes is a guilt-free indulgence.

Enjoy it as a perfect side dish, easy appetizer, or even as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Loaded with fresh ingredients and all your favorite vegetables, this simple tomato salad recipe is a hit at any table.

all ingredients laid out on counter ready to assemble.

What Ingredients Are in Cherry Tomato Salad?

  • Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are the star of the dish, their natural sweetness shines in every bite.
  • Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch to balance the softness of the tomatoes.
  • Kalamata Olives: Bring a bold, briny flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
  • Black Olives: Provide a milder olive taste to round out the cucumber salad with cherry tomatoes.
  • Chives: Offer a subtle onion-like flavor that enhances the overall profile.
  • Feta Cheese: Adds creaminess and a slightly tangy bite to the olive cherry tomato salad.
  • Olive Oil: The base of the dressing, it brings a smooth richness.
  • Red Wine Vinegar: Delivers a tangy kick to brighten the flavors in the salad with cherry tomatoes with cucumber.
  • White Sugar: Balances the acidity in the dressing for a perfectly harmonious taste.
  • Dried Oregano: Provides an earthy, herbaceous note to the dressing.
  • Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the cherry tomato and olive salad.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat to round out the taste.

Pro Tip: Use the most ripe cherry tomatoes you can find for maximum sweetness and flavor. Opt for high-quality olive oil and feta cheese to elevate the dish.

tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, chives and cheese in a bowl, unmixed.

How to Make Cherry Tomato Salad:

  1. Prepare the vegetables by slicing the tomatoes and cucumber, and mince the chives.
  2. Combine the halved tomatoes, veggies, olives, and cheese in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a separate jar with a lid, mix the remaining ingredients to make the vinaigrette dressing.
  4. Shake the jar vigorously to create a well-emulsified dressing.
  5. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for optimal flavor.
  7. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tip: Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For best results, toss the salad again before serving to redistribute the dressing.

How to Store Cherry Tomato Salad:

Store any leftover cherry tomato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Ensure the container is well-sealed to keep the salad fresh and prevent odors from transferring.

salad ingredients mixed up in a bowl.

Can You Freeze Cherry Tomato Salad?

Freezing cherry tomato salad is not recommended. The fresh vegetables, especially tomatoes and cucumbers, lose their texture when thawed, resulting in a mushy consistency.

Pro Tip: If you have leftover ingredients, consider freezing the olives or feta separately for use in other dishes.

How Long Does Cherry Tomato Salad Last?

Cherry Tomato Salad lasts for about 3-4 days when properly stored in the refrigerator.

After that, the vegetables may lose their crunch, and the flavors might become less vibrant.

red wine vinaigrette mixed up in a jar.

Are Cherry Tomatoes Healthy?

Yes, cherry tomatoes are very healthy!

Cherry tomatoes are packed with vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.

For maximum nutritional benefits, enjoy cherry tomatoes raw, as cooking can reduce their vitamin C content.

Pro Tip: This cucumber tomato salad is also gluten free and vegan. This is a perfect dish to serve your friends and family who eat a medically restrictive diet.

Why Are They Called Cherry Tomatoes?

Cherry tomatoes get their name from their small, round shape, which resembles cherries.

Their size and natural sweetness make them a favorite for snacking and salads.

Pro Tip: Look for cherry tomatoes that are firm and bright in color for the best flavor and freshness.

red win vinaigrette being poured on salad

What is the difference between cherry and grape tomatoes?

Cherry and grape tomatoes are both a small red type of tomato.

However cherry tomatoes are more round, have a sweeter flavor, and a thinner skin. Grape tomatoes are more oval shaped with a thicker skin and are not as sweet.

Usually grape tomatoes are best for cooking and cherry tomatoes are perfect in a simple tomato salad recipe like this one. The kind of tomatoes you use in the recipe will determine the end result of your dish.

Pro Tip: If you have a large bowl of fresh summer tomatoes from tomato plants in your garden or the farmer’s market, use whatever they have. Garden fresh produce always has more flavor and makes the best tomato salad.

Salad tossed with dressing with a wooden spoon scooping a portion out.

What to Serve with Cherry Tomato Salad:

This cherry tomato salad pairs beautifully with a main dish like Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad Recipe, Soy Marinated Flank Steak, or Seafood Bisque Recipe. A fresh tomato salad is also a great companion to crusty bread, hummus, or roasted vegetables as part of a light lunch.

Try some of these great recipes with this fresh side salad:

Is Cherry Tomato Salad Healthy?

Yes, this cherry tomato salad is very healthy.

It is a nutrient-rich dish packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

The combination of fresh vegetables and olive oil makes it a heart-healthy option.

zoomed in side view of salad in bowl.

If you are looking for a great side dish full of flavors, you are going to love this easy cherry tomato salad recipe. Full of fresh flavor and garden harvest ingredients, this is the best thing you can make from your backyard (or the farmer’s market)!

Yield: 8 Servings

Cherry Tomato Salad

zoomed in image of salad in a bowl.

Cherry Tomato Salad: a fresh, flavorful mix of tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta in a tangy dressing. Easy, healthy, and perfect for any occasion!

Prep Time 15 minutes
Additional Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes

Instructions

  1. In a bowl combine tomatoes, cucumber, olives, chives, and cheese. Mix well.
  2. In a jar with a lid, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, sutar, oregano, salt and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Pour dressing over tomatoes and toss to cover.
  4. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  5. Serve cold.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

8

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 159Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 450mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 2g

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