Lebanese Tomato Salad

This Lebanese Tomato Salad is the perfect refreshing dish for a light lunch, as a side for dinner, or even as a simple appetizer. It’s a classic Middle Eastern salad known for its vibrant colors and burst of fresh flavors. Combining ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and fragrant herbs like parsley and mint, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. The simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables, making every bite irresistible. Whether served as part of a mezze platter or as a stand-alone dish, this salad brings a taste of Lebanon to your table.

This recipe is quick to prepare, taking just 10 minutes to assemble, making it an easy choice for busy days or when you need a light, yet satisfying option. The balance of fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and smooth olive oil creates a beautifully simple dish that’s full of flavor. And with its versatility, it can easily complement a wide range of meals, from grilled meats to pita bread or falafel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh and Healthy

This salad is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, making it a nutritious and low-calorie option perfect for any meal.

2. Easy and Quick to Make

With just a few simple ingredients and 10 minutes of your time, you can prepare this salad. It’s ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

3. Flavorful and Refreshing

The combination of tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and mint creates a light, refreshing taste that is perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser.

4. Versatile

This salad pairs well with a wide variety of dishes such as grilled chicken, lamb, fish, or Mediterranean appetizers like hummus and pita bread.

5. Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free

This recipe is entirely plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for anyone with dietary restrictions or those following a vegan or gluten-free lifestyle.

Ingredients

• 4 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

• Add Feta Cheese: For a tangy twist, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the salad. It complements the fresh vegetables beautifully.
• Include Olives: Add some Kalamata olives or green olives for extra flavor and a Mediterranean touch.
• Roasted Vegetables: You can roast the tomatoes and cucumber before adding them to the salad for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Add Pomegranate Seeds: For a burst of sweetness, sprinkle some fresh pomegranate seeds on top, adding both color and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Dice the tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion, and chop the parsley and mint leaves.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, sliced red onion, parsley, and mint.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Pour the olive oil and lemon dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the salad chilled for the best flavor. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate it for a while before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the Salad: For extra freshness, refrigerate the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes the dish more refreshing.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint are key to this recipe’s success. Dried herbs won’t have the same vibrant, aromatic flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently toss the salad to avoid breaking the tomatoes and cucumbers. You want to keep the textures intact.
• Customize the Dressing: If you prefer a bit more tang, add an extra splash of lemon juice, or try a dash of red wine vinegar for an added zing.

How to Serve

This Lebanese Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. It’s a great side for grilled meats such as chicken or lamb, but it can also be enjoyed with Mediterranean dishes like hummus, falafel, or tabbouleh. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a warm pita or flatbread to soak up the delicious dressing. It’s also a wonderful addition to a mezze platter, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables and the vibrancy of the herbs.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing, as the texture of the vegetables will change once frozen and thawed.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. Simply take it out of the fridge and serve.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

2. Can I use a different oil?

If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with avocado oil or any mild-flavored oil. However, olive oil provides the best flavor for this salad.

3. Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes for additional flavor and color.

5. Can I make this salad spicy?

If you like a little heat, you can add finely chopped chili peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.

6. Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint?

Fresh mint provides the best flavor and aroma for this salad, but if you don’t have it, you can use dried mint. Just use less than the fresh version as dried mint is more concentrated.

7. How do I store the leftover dressing?

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a good stir before using.

8. Can I use lemon zest in the dressing?

Yes, adding a little lemon zest to the dressing will intensify the citrus flavor and add a nice aromatic touch.

9. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Lebanese Tomato Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

10. Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, you can easily add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even roasted lamb to turn this salad into a more substantial meal.

Conclusion

This Lebanese Tomato Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and quick recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s a light and refreshing dish that pairs well with a wide variety of main courses. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a simple appetizer, this salad offers a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite. With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.

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