Name: Lebanese Tomato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 small red onion, finely sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; juice of 1 lemon; salt and black pepper to taste

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Lebanese Tomato Salad is an absolute star on any table—vibrant, zesty, and bursting with the freshness of sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a light citrusy finish. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, this classic Middle Eastern salad captures the spirit of summer and the heartwarming flavors of Lebanon. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or bringing it to a potluck, this salad never fails to impress with its colorful beauty and refreshing taste.

Lebanese Tomato Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Lebanese Tomato Salad comes from its lovingly simple ingredients, each playing its part to build layers of flavor and color. Every component is easy to find, but together, they deliver the kind of freshness and joy only the simplest dishes can.

Tomatoes: The heart of the salad—choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor and sweetness.
Red Onion: Finely sliced for a delicate crunch and a gentle bite that brightens every forkful.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a burst of green and a mild earthiness that complements the tomatoes.
Fresh Mint: Refreshes the salad and elevates it with its cool, uplifting aroma.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Provides a velvety, rich base that ties all the ingredients together.
Lemon Juice: Delivers zippy acidity that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and richness of the oil.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and unify all the fresh flavors.

How to Make Lebanese Tomato Salad

Step 1: Chop Your Vegetables

Begin by chopping your ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces—don’t worry about perfect cuts! Thinly slice the red onion until it’s almost transparent, so every bite is mellow and sweet rather than overpowering. Chop the parsley and mint finely; their fragrances fill the kitchen and promise big flavor ahead.

Step 2: Combine Everything in a Bowl

Place the chopped tomatoes, sliced onion, parsley, and mint into a large mixing bowl. This step is where the salad starts to come alive—the reds and greens are a feast for the eyes, hinting at the bright flavors to come.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil generously over the bowl, then squeeze the juice of one fresh lemon right on top. This simple duo forms the classic Lebanese Tomato Salad dressing, which marries all the ingredients beautifully without weighing them down.

Step 4: Toss Gently

Gently toss everything together using clean hands or salad servers. Be careful not to crush the tomatoes—your goal is to coat every piece in the luscious dressing while keeping the salad light and airy.

Step 5: Season and Rest

Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste. Give the salad one last gentle toss. For the best flavor, let your Lebanese Tomato Salad sit for about 10 minutes. This short rest time lets all those glorious juices mingle and soak into each bite.

How to Serve Lebanese Tomato Salad

Garnishes

A final flourish of extra chopped mint or parsley just before serving not only brightens the salad’s appearance but also amplifies its inviting aroma. For an extra Mediterranean touch, a crumble of feta or a handful of kalamata olives pairs perfectly with the salad’s freshness.

Side Dishes

Lebanese Tomato Salad shines as a partner to grilled meats such as kebabs, chicken shawarma, or lamb chops, thanks to its lively tang. It’s also a natural fit among other mezze like hummus, baba ganoush, or warm pita bread for dipping and scooping.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your creativity run wild! Serve Lebanese Tomato Salad in a big family-style bowl for gatherings, or spoon individual portions onto crisp lettuce leaves for a fun twist. Layer it with cooked grains like bulgur or quinoa for a hearty, protein-rich lunch that’s as beautiful as it is satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Lebanese Tomato Salad, pop it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It stays tasty and crisp for up to two days, though it may release a bit more juice as it sits—just give it a quick toss before serving.

Freezing

Unfortunately, this isn’t a salad that freezes well. Tomatoes and herbs lose their texture and vibrant flavor once thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Make only as much as you’ll need, or invite friends and family to help polish it off!

Reheating

Good news—no reheating required! Lebanese Tomato Salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, straight from the fridge or freshly tossed. If it’s been refrigerated, let it sit out for a few minutes so the flavors can wake up before serving.

FAQs

Can I use any variety of tomato for Lebanese Tomato Salad?

Absolutely! While classic red, ripe tomatoes are the go-to, feel free to use cherry tomatoes, heirlooms, or even a mix for extra color and flavor. Just make sure they’re juicy and full of flavor.

How can I make this salad even more filling?

Try tossing in diced cucumber for refreshing crunch or a few spoonfuls of cooked chickpeas or lentils for added protein. A handful of crumbled feta cheese also adds richness and depth.

Is Lebanese Tomato Salad vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for potlucks or gatherings where you want a dish that everyone can enjoy.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Of course! If you love bold flavors, sprinkle in a pinch of sumac or dried oregano, or add fresh dill for a different herbal twist.

What’s the best way to prevent the salad from getting watery?

To minimize excess liquid, use firm, ripe tomatoes and only salt the salad just before serving. If it does release juice, simply toss it again, or serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never experienced the pure joy of Lebanese Tomato Salad, now’s the perfect time to bring this colorful classic into your kitchen! With its effortless prep, wholesome ingredients, and dazzling flavors, it’s sure to win over hearts (and appetites) at your next meal. Give it a try and let this salad become a new favorite in your rotation.

Lebanese Tomato Salad Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Lebanese Tomato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines ripe tomatoes, red onion, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad:

4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 small red onion, finely sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

Dressing:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
juice of 1 lemon
salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint.
Add Dressing: Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
Toss: Gently mix until coated.
Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
Rest: Let sit for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.