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Tomato Onion Salad with Lemon and Fresh Herbs

Juicy ripe tomatoes, sweet Vidalia onions, fresh basil, and parsley come together in a light lemon dressing for a simple summer salad that's bursting with garden-fresh flavor.
Prep Time10 minutes
Servings4
Calories: 60kcal

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 4 to 5 ripe tomatoes cut into wedges or large chunks
  • 1/2 to 1 sweet Vidalia onion sliced
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon more if desired
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil torn
  • Flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • Cracked black and white peppercorn blend to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Soften the Onion

  • Add the sliced Vidalia onion to a large bowl.
  • Pour the lemon juice over the onions and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Toss gently and let sit for about 10 minutes. This softens the onion and creates a flavorful base for the salad.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes

  • Add the tomatoes to the bowl.
  • Gently toss so the tomato juices mingle with the lemon and onions. The mixture should become lightly juicy and glossy.

Step 3: Add Optional Depth

  • If desired, drizzle in 1 to 2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar.
  • Use a light hand—the balsamic should complement the lemon, not overpower the fresh tomato flavor.

Step 4: Add the Herbs

  • Add the torn basil and chopped parsley.
  • Gently toss until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the salad.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

  • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with the black and white peppercorn blend.
  • Taste and adjust the salt or lemon juice as needed. Serve immediately or allow the salad to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • 🍅 Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor.
  • 🍅 Vidalia onions add sweetness, but other sweet onions work well too.
  • 🍅 Fresh herbs make a big difference in this recipe—avoid dried herbs if possible.
  • 🍅 For extra brightness, add a little more lemon juice just before serving.

Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tomatoes will continue to release juices, creating a flavorful dressing at the bottom of the bowl.