Tomato Salad with Mint – Refreshing & Super Easy

Tomato salad with mint is a super refreshing summer salad.

With abundant fresh tomatoes gracing our markets, we should enjoy them as much as possible—at least, we have done so at our house.

This recipe is relatively easy to make, making it the perfect side salad for all your meals. With summer outdoor activities, this refreshing tomato salad with mint is the perfect answer.

This salad will soon become your and your friends’ favorite at potlucks, barbecues, and pool parties. It has simple ingredients that marry well together. Being French, we enjoy shallots and are more likely to select them over other onions.

The mint with the freshly squeezed lemon brings this salad a very uplifting, fresh taste.

In this Article

Our markets are full of fresh garden tomatoes, and the selection is a cook’s heaven. For this fresh tomato salad recipe, I used heirloom tomatoes. Playing with new flavors such as cherry tomatoes and grape tomatoes will keep the same great texture and taste.

And if you happen to buy too many tomatoes, you can use them to make this super delicious Rigatoni with Roasted Tomatoes recipe.

What is a shallot?

Shallots, like garlic, leeks, and onions, are flavor-building vegetables in the allium family. They are strong in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines and have been enjoyed in Europe since the eleventh century.

A staple in both homes and restaurants. Shallots are the perfect balance between spicy and sweet. Bite it raw, and the intense, pungent flavor will be dominant.

Once cooked, the sweetness comes forward, bringing out a rich caramelized flavor.

What is the best substitute for the shallots?

Shallots are part of my DNA, and I will use them over anything else. However, yellow onions, sweet Vidalia, and white onions are great substitutes.

Cipollini, red onions are close in taste, which is softer once mixed with the dressing.

Chives and scallions are stronger tasting; thus, you may want to use less.

What does mint add to a dish?

Mint brings bright flavor and scent to drinks and dishes. Used more frequently in Middle Eastern cuisine. Quite refreshing and when used with lemon, the flavor is intensified.

Fresh leaves are used as an ingredient. The essential oils are extracted to use as flavoring and scent.

Tips and step-by-step instructions to create this simple tomato salad recipe

This recipe is relatively easy to make with few ingredients, and it takes no time to prepare.

• Start by creating the salad dressing by mixing the lemon juice with the salt and pepper. Once the salt is dissolved, add the olive oil and mix well to create a cream-like consistency.
• Add half of the thinly sliced shallots.
• Add the mint to the dressing, toss well and set aside.

• Slice the tomatoes, remove all the inside seedlings, and cut them into chunks. Mix them with the salad dressing and let them rest so the tomatoes will soak in the mint flavor.
• When ready to serve, add the remaining thinly sliced shallots and enjoy.

What to serve with your tomato salad with mint?

This delicate salad will work well with fish, Tequila Shrimps with Prosciutto and Basil .

Serve it along with Albacore Tuna Croquettes, you can make it a complete meal.

Or our very popular Chiles Rellenos or Roasted Chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

• Mint is a favorite ingredient in this salad; however, you can substitute it with any fresh herbs such as dill, fresh basil, or chopped parsley if that is all you have in your refrigerator.

• Substituting the lemon juice with white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar.

• If you select red wine vinegar, make sure it is French or Italian, as they are more acidic. You do not want to use sweet vinegar, as it will clash in flavor with the mint and lemon.

• Add a handful of thinly sliced cucumber for a fresh Mediterranean flair. Kalamata olives add another layer of flavor and richness and create a whole new salad.

Storage options

This salad stores wonderfully for a day in the refrigerator. Please place it in an airtight glass container.

You can prepare the salad up to adding the shallots the day before or, better yet, early in the day when you plan to enjoy it.

Add the shallots at the last minute to keep them fresh and with a slight bite pungent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tomato salad is a healthy side dish that lets juicy summer tomatoes shine.

Simple, delicious, and versatile.

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