What is an heirloom tomato salad?

An heirloom tomato salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the unique qualities of heirloom tomatoes—sweet, juicy, and colorful. Usually served raw, it features sliced tomatoes paired with fresh herbs, citrus juice, nuts, and light dressings like olive oil or pesto. This minimalist approach allows the tomatoes’ natural flavor and texture to take center stage.

What is the best way to eat heirloom tomatoes?

The best way to enjoy heirloom tomatoes is raw and at room temperature. This preserves their juiciness and allows their complex flavors to shine. Serve them sliced with a touch of sea salt, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon or high-quality oil. For more substance, pair them with creamy cheese or layer them into a fresh salad.

What goes well with heirloom tomatoes?

Heirloom tomatoes pair well with fresh herbs like basil and mint, creamy cheeses like mozzarella or burrata, toasted nuts such as pine nuts or almonds, and bright accents like lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. They also complement crusty bread, grilled meats, or light summer sides, making them a versatile choice for many meals.

What’s so special about heirloom tomatoes?

Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated, non-hybrid varieties known for their deep flavor, colorful appearance, and rich history. Unlike commercial hybrids, they are grown for taste—not uniformity or long shelf life. Their soft texture and vibrant palette make them ideal for raw dishes like salads, offering both nutritional value and aesthetic appeal.

Heirloom Tomato Salad – Fresh, Vibrant & Delicious

Description

Heirloom Tomato Salad is a fresh, colorful dish made with juicy tomatoes, basil, pesto, and lemon—perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

4 to 6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick
2 tablespoons basil pesto
Juice of 1/2 lemon
2 tablespoons finely chopped shallot
1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Flaky sea salt, to taste

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Instructions

Arrange the sliced heirloom tomatoes on a large serving platter.
Spoon small dollops of pesto evenly over the tomatoes.
Sprinkle the chopped shallots across the top.
Drizzle the lemon juice evenly over the entire salad.
Top with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil.
Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 00 minutes
Category: Seasonal and Holiday Salads
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American