French Tomato Salad (Salade de Tomatoes)
Looking for a fresh, vibrant summer salad straight from the heart of France? This French Tomato Salad, or Salade de Tomates, is a rustic, simple dish that celebrates the flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes, crisp red onions, fresh herbs and quality olive oil. This is a staple in my French household, perfect as a starter, light lunch, or side dish. What Is a French Tomato Salad? A French tomato salad—or salade de tomates— is all about simplicity and freshness. It relies on ripe tomato wedges, red onions, garlic, olive oil, vinegar…
- Prep time
- 15 min
- Cook time
- 31 min
- Yield
- 4 servings
- Difficulty
- EASY
Ingredients
Quantities are shown as originally provided.
- large, ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp Fleur de Sel (or coarse sea salt)
- 1/2 red onion, peeled and finely sliced in half rounds
- 1 garlic clove, peeled and minced
- 8 basil leaves, chopped + extra for garnish
- 1 tbsp (15ml) red wine vinegar
- 3 tbsp (45ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Wash, core and cut tomatoes in big wedges. Place in a bowl, sprinkle with fleur de sel, toss lightly to coat and let sit on the counter for 10 minutes.
- 2
Place red onion slices in a small bowl filled with ice-cold water for 5 minutes. This mellows the sharp taste, while keeping them crisp. Drain.
- 3
Sprinkle the tomatoes with the red onion, garlic, basil. Drizzle with vinegar and oil. Season with black pepper. With your hands, gently toss the tomatoes so all wedges are well-coated with dressing and garnish.
- 4
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (salt, pepper). Garnish with fresh basil leaves for garnish.