Best Summer Tomato and Basil Salad

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A sun-ripened medley of juicy tomatoes and fresh basil, dressed in a simple olive oil and lemon vinaigrette that makes every bite taste like a summer garden. This mediterranean-inspired salads ready in about 15 minutes pairs heirloom tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, extra-virgin olive oil into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Slice 2 lbs heirloom tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick wedges, arranging them in a shallow bowl.
  2. Step 2: Whisk together 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp red wine vinegar, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
  3. Step 3: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the tomatoes, then gently toss with 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil until all pieces are coated.
  4. Step 4: Sprinkle 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese over the top, letting it melt slightly from the tomatoes' warmth.
  5. Step 5: Let rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then serve chilled as a refreshing starter or side.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Best Summer Tomato and Basil Salad take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Best Summer Tomato and Basil Salad?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep heirloom tomatoes from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Best Summer Tomato and Basil Salad?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Best Summer Tomato and Basil Salad for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Best Summer Tomato and Basil Salad?

Mediterranean salads like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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