If you've ever bitten into a ripe plum tomato, you know how juicy, sweet, and tangy they can be. These tomatoes are perfect for salads due to their firm texture and rich flavor. They hold up well against dressings, and their vibrant red color adds a pop to any dish.

Plum tomatoes have fewer seeds and thicker flesh compared to regular tomatoes, making them ideal for slicing into wedges or dicing for a fresh salad.

This recipe pairs the natural sweetness of plum tomatoes with fresh greens, creating a light yet flavorful dish. Whether you're looking for a side salad to complement your meal or a light lunch, this salad hits all the right notes. Plus, it's quick to make, so you won't be spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let's gather everything you'll need for this simple yet delicious salad. Here's the list:

1. Fresh Plum Tomatoes

The star of the dish! Use about 4–5 medium-sized plum tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces or wedges.

2. Mixed Salad Greens

A variety of fresh greens will give your salad texture and freshness. You can use baby spinach, arugula, or even a classic spring mix for a balanced flavor.

3. Red Onion

A few thin slices of red onion will add a mild yet sharp flavor that pairs well with the tomatoes and greens.

4. Fresh Basil Leaves

Basil's aromatic and slightly peppery taste will bring your salad to life. You can tear or chop the leaves for more flavor distribution.

5. Olive Oil

A good quality cold-pressed olive oil is a must for dressings. It will tie everything together with its smooth, slightly fruity taste.

6. Lemon

Fresh lemon juice will provide a tangy brightness that complements the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.

7. Salt and Pepper

To taste, just a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper will elevate the flavors in this salad.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Salad

Now that we have everything ready, let's get into the process of making this delicious plum tomato salad. It's incredibly easy to make, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by washing the plum tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them into wedges or chop them into bite-sized pieces depending on your preference. Make sure the tomatoes are ripe to get the best flavor.

2. Slice the Onion and Basil

Thinly slice the red onion and tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the onion slices in cold water for 10–15 minutes to tone down the sharpness.

3. Toss the Greens

In a large bowl, add your mixed salad greens. Feel free to get creative here with different types of greens based on your preferences. Arugula, with its peppery kick, pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes and basil.

4. Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped plum tomatoes, sliced onions, and basil to the salad bowl with the greens. Gently toss everything together to mix the ingredients evenly.

5. Dress the Salad

Now comes the fun part: dressing the salad. Drizzle cold-pressed olive oil over the salad, then squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad again to evenly coat everything with the dressing.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Once your salad is tossed and dressed, it's ready to be served. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or as a standalone dish for a light lunch.

Extra Tips and Variations

This salad is already a hit with its fresh flavors, but here are a few variations to make it even more exciting.

1. Add Cheese

For a creamy touch, you can crumble some feta cheese or add mozzarella balls. The creamy cheese pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon dressing and sweet tomatoes.

2. Add a Crunch

For a bit of crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or even croutons. These will give the salad an extra layer of texture.

3. Try Other Herbs

Basil isn't the only herb that works here. You can experiment with fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley for a different flavor profile.

4. Add a Protein

To turn this salad into a more filling meal, add a grilled chicken cutlet, some shrimp, or even canned tuna for a quick protein boost.

The Benefits of Plum Tomatoes

Nutrition research from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, led by experts such as Dr. Edward Giovannucci, highlights tomatoes as a rich source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and cellular protection. Mixed leafy greens further enhance the nutritional value of a meal by providing fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals that support digestion and overall wellness, as noted by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Finishing the dish with fresh lemon juice adds vitamin C, a nutrient recognized by the National Institutes of Health for its role in immune function and skin health.

Final Thoughts: A Simple, Fresh Salad

This plum tomato salad is a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and freshness. It's incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you're serving it as a side dish at a BBQ or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this salad is sure to please everyone at the table. Don't be afraid to experiment with different toppings or dressings to make it your own.