This Grape Tomato Salad is exactly that. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and built on the natural sweetness of grape tomatoes paired with a simple, zesty dressing. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or preparing a quick side dish, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and your secret weapon for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 cups Grape Tomatoes, halved lengthwise
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons Fresh Basil, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Oregano, finely chopped
For the Easy Dressing
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar (or lemon juice/plain white vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Sugar or Honey
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Tomatoes
Wash the grape tomatoes and slice each one in half lengthwise. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Cutting them is essential—it allows the dressing to soak in and prevents those unexpected juice bursts when eating.
2. Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, combine olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, sugar (or honey), and black pepper. Whisk well until everything blends smoothly and the sugar and salt dissolve.
3. Dress and Toss
Pour the dressing over your halved tomatoes. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss the tomatoes, coating them evenly without crushing them.
4. Add the Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle the parsley, basil, and oregano over the dressed tomatoes. Toss again lightly to distribute the herbs throughout the salad.
5. Rest and Serve (The Crucial Step!)
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or even better—overnight. This allows the tomatoes to marinate, release their juices, and blend beautifully with the dressing. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature for best flavor.
Chef’s Tips
Halving Is a Must
Don’t skip cutting the tomatoes! This ensures they absorb the dressing and become more flavorful.
Taste the Dressing First
Always taste your dressing before adding it. Adjust salt, sugar, or vinegar to match your preference.
Use Fresh Herbs Only
Dried herbs won’t provide the same bright, aromatic flavor. Fresh parsley, basil, and oregano are essential.
Optional Add-Ins
For extra flavor and richness, add:
- Fresh Mozzarella pearls (Bocconcini)
- Crumbled Feta cheese
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes—or a mix of cherry and grape tomatoes—work perfectly. Just halve or quarter them depending on size.
How far in advance can I make this?
You can make this salad up to 1 day ahead. It actually tastes even better after marinating overnight.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tomatoes will soften over time but stay flavorful.
What can I use instead of white wine vinegar?
Fresh lemon juice is an excellent substitute. Red wine vinegar or balsamic can also be used, but add slightly less since they have stronger flavors.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Cucumbers or finely diced red onions pair beautifully with the tomatoes. Add onions just before serving for crunch.