Tomato and Onion Salad is a simple, fresh, and flavorful side dish made with juicy tomatoes, crisp onions, fresh herbs, and a light dressing. The sweet tomatoes and slightly sharp onions come together beautifully with olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Every bite is bright and refreshing, making this salad a great way to add fresh flavor to any meal.
This easy salad takes only a few minutes to prepare and needs just a handful of everyday ingredients. It’s perfect for summer lunches, family dinners, barbecues, picnics, or whenever you want something light and refreshing on the table. Serve it with grilled chicken, fish, steak, sandwiches, or warm crusty bread for a simple side everyone can enjoy.

Table of Contents
Tomato and Onion Salad Ingredients
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes
- 1 small yellow or red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped, optional
- 2 tablespoons feta cheese, optional
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

How to Make Tomato and Onion Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the tomatoes and dry them well, then cut them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Peel the onion, slice it thinly, and add it to the tomatoes along with the chopped fresh parsley and basil.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until everything is well combined and the dressing looks smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
Pour the dressing over the tomatoes, onions, and herbs, then gently toss everything together with a large spoon or salad tongs. Mix carefully so the tomatoes stay in nice pieces and do not become too soft.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Let the salad rest for about 10 to 15 minutes so the vegetables can absorb the dressing and the flavors can come together. Give it one gentle toss before serving, then enjoy it fresh as a side dish with your favorite meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This salad comes together in just a few simple steps with very little preparation.
- Fresh and Flavorful – Juicy tomatoes, crisp onions, fresh herbs, and a bright dressing create a delicious combination.
- Simple Ingredients – You only need a handful of basic ingredients that are easy to find.
- No Complicated Cooking – There is no need for an oven or stove, making this recipe very beginner-friendly.
Tips and Shortcuts
- Use Ripe Tomatoes – Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and a juicy texture.
- Slice the Onion Thinly – Thin onion slices mix better with the tomatoes and give the salad a more balanced flavor.
- Soak Strong Onions – If your onion tastes too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 5 to 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
- Use Cherry Tomatoes – Cherry tomatoes are a great shortcut because you only need to cut them in half.
What to Serve with Tomato and Onion Salad
This tomato and onion salad is fresh, simple, and full of bright flavor. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or warm crusty bread, and it pairs beautifully with sparkling water, iced tea, or a refreshing lemonade.

Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make the onion taste milder ?
Slice the onion thinly and soak it in cold water for about 5 to 10 minutes. Drain it well before adding it to the salad.
Can I add cucumber ?
Absolutely. Cucumber adds extra crunch and makes the salad even more refreshing.
Can I add cheese ?
Yes. Feta cheese is a delicious option, but you can also use small pieces of mozzarella.
Can I add olives ?
Yes! Black or green olives add a salty flavor that goes very well with tomatoes and onions.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover Tomato and Onion Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy it within 1 day.
Freezer Storage
Freezing is not recommended because the tomatoes and onions can become soft and watery after thawing. For the freshest results, enjoy this salad fresh.
Tomato and Onion Salad
Course: Salads, Side DishCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes120
kcal15
minutesA fresh and easy Tomato and Onion Salad made with juicy tomatoes, crisp onions, fresh herbs, and a simple tangy dressing. It is quick to prepare and perfect with lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
4 medium ripe tomatoes
1 small yellow or red onion
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped, optional
2 tablespoons feta cheese, optional
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, finely minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables ,Wash the tomatoes and dry them well, then cut them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Peel the onion, slice it thinly, and add it to the tomatoes along with the chopped fresh parsley and basil.
- Step 2: Make the Dressing ,In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until everything is well combined and the dressing looks smooth.
- Step 3: Combine the Salad ,Pour the dressing over the tomatoes, onions, and herbs, then gently toss everything together with a large spoon or salad tongs. Mix carefully so the tomatoes stay in nice pieces and do not become too soft.
- Step 4: Rest and Serve ,Let the salad rest for about 10 to 15 minutes so the vegetables can absorb the dressing and the flavors can come together. Give it one gentle toss before serving, then enjoy it fresh as a side dish with your favorite meal.
Notes
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Use fresh parsley for a brighter flavor.
- Add avocado just before serving.
- Fresh lemon juice gives the best taste.
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