Let me introduce you to a fabulous Tomato Feta Salad recipe that's a real winner. This easy salad recipe bursts with tons of flavor in each bite. It is easy to make and wonderfully versatile. I enjoy it as a satisfying meal or a tasty side dish.
Whether you're looking for a light low-carb lunch, a keto-friendly side for dinner, or a dish to share at a potluck, this tomato feta salad is your go-to recipe. It's time to treat yourself to something truly delicious.
This Recipe Is:
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- Low Carb
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- Keto
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- Gluten Free
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- Vegetarian
Table of Contents
5 Reasons to Love This Recipe
I love this fresh tomato salad recipe because of the following reasons:
1. Tons of flavor in each bite.
2. A unique twist on the traditional tomato feta salad.
3. Concentrated, delicious tomato flavors.
4. Perfect as a lunch or a side dish for a BBQ.
5. Easily customizable.
Is Tomato Feta Salad Low Carb?
Yes, tomato feta salad is generally considered low carb, especially if you use fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese. However, the carb content can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe.
In this recipe, I skipped the cucumbers and onions and stuck to the basics with low-carb salad dressing, which drastically lowered the carb count. I also used ingredients that are keto-friendly, so anyone who is following a strict low-carb or keto diet can enjoy it!
When it comes to feta cheese, I have a detailed article on "Is Feta Cheese Low Carb" so find out the carb content, nutritional values and benefits to make informed decisions.
Tomato Feta Salad Ingredient List
You'll need the following ingredients for this fresh summer salad with feta cheese:
- 1.5 pounds heirloom tomatoes
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbles
- ¼ cup virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
Want to try something different? Here are some keto-friendly substitutions you can use to adapt the recipe to your taste:
- Tomatoes: While heirloom tomatoes are fantastic, any variety of fresh garden tomatoes will work well in this salad. Cherry tomatoes are a great alternative, but skip the balsamic vinegar if using them due to their natural sweetness.
- Feta cheese: Swap out feta cheese for goat cheese or cotija for a similar tangy flavor profile.
- Olive oil: If you're out of olive oil, try avocado or coconut oil as a substitute.
- Apple cider vinegar: Substitute with red or white wine vinegar or even freshly squeezed lemon juice for a zesty twist (avoid bottled lemon juice for its harsh flavor).
- Dried oregano: Dried marjoram is a perfect substitute for oregano. You can also use Herbs de Provence or a store-bought Italian spice mix for added flavor.
Additional Ingredients
Want to enhance the flavors of this perfect side dish recipe? I have some delicious optional ingredients for you!
- Red pepper flakes: Add a touch of heat to red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Fresh herbs: Swap dried herbs for fresh ones like basil, using a ratio of 1:3 (one part dried equals three parts fresh). Fresh basil adds a delightful aroma and flavor to this salad.
- Thinly sliced shallots or red onions: Soak thinly sliced shallots or red onions in water for 4-5 minutes before adding to reduce their sharp flavor. They add a delicious aromatic crunch.
- Fresh cucumber: Incorporate some fresh cucumber for added texture and freshness. If preferred, remove the seeds to prevent excess water from releasing.
- Fresh parsley: Add fresh flat-leaf parsley to this recipe for an extra freshness and herbaceous flavor.
Cooking Tools Required
You'll need the following cooking tools for this classic Tomato Feta Salad recipe:
- Large knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl (non-reactive such as glass, ceramic, or plastic)
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
- Strainer or colander (for draining tomatoes)
- Refrigerator (for chilling the salad)
How to Make Tomato Feta Salad: Complete Cooking Guide
Cooking Methods
- No-cook recipe
Preparation Instructions
- Wash, core, and dice the tomatoes. Place in a large, non-reactive (glass, ceramic, or plastic) bowl.
- Add the salt and mix well. Allow to rest for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, strain the liquid from the tomatoes. Discard the liquid.
- Add in all the remaining ingredients. Mix well.
- Keep refrigerated before serving
Step 1: Combine chopped heirloom tomatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add a mixture and toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly with the dressing.
Step 2: Add crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the dressed tomatoes. Gently toss everything together until the tomatoes and feta are evenly mixed.
💡 My Pro Tip
Properly salting tomatoes can make a world of difference in flavor. Simply sprinkle salt on diced tomatoes, let them sit, then drain off excess water. For this recipe, salting once is enough due to the salty feta. Try a taste test: salt one batch of juicy tomatoes as directed, and salt another batch just before tasting to compare.
Note: Salting tomatoes too far in advance can cause them to lose structure and break down.
⏲️ Time-Saving Tips
- Opt for pre-cubed or crumbled feta to eliminate the need for extra prep time.
- When salting the tomatoes, place them in a colander over the sink to let them drain naturally while you work on other tasks.
- Use efficient kitchen tools like a sharp knife and a good cutting board to make chopping quicker and easier.
- Prepare all ingredients by slicing, dicing, and storing them in separate containers in the fridge. Combine just before serving to save time.
- Make a large batch of the salad to have leftovers for quick and easy meals later in the week.
What to Serve With Tomato Feta Salad?
Here are some low-carb or keto-friendly food pairings to serve with tomato feta salad:
- Tandoori Styled Grilled Chicken: Serve the refreshing Tomato Feta Salad with tender, marinated grilled chicken for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Baby Back Rib: Pair the summer salad with fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
- Grilled Pork Kabobs: Enjoy the tomato salad with savory grilled pork kabobs, offering a medley of flavors in every bite.
- BBQ Lamb Chops: Love Mediterranean recipes? Accompany BBQ lamb chops with delicious salad for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
- Roasted Chicken and Vegetables: Serve the salad with roasted chicken and vegetables for a complete and wholesome meal.
Storage Instructions
Storage Tips
Tomato salad with feta doesn't store very well as the salt keeps drawing from the tomatoes and makes them soggy. However, if you still want to store the leftovers, here are a few tips:
- Store any leftover Tomato Feta Salad in a non-reactive container in the refrigerator.
- Eat within 1-2 days for the best quality.
Note: This recipe does not freeze well due to changes in texture caused by the salt drawing out liquid from the tomatoes.
Recipe Conclusion
Whether you're craving a light lunch, a zesty side dish, or a flavorful addition to your meal lineup, this keto tomato salad delivers excellent taste and simplicity. Enjoy the flavors from ripe heirloom tomatoes, creamy feta, and a delightful medley of vinegar and herbs. The easy Tomato Feta Salad is a low-carb, keto-friendly, and carb-free option that will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Gather your ingredients, slice those tomatoes, crumble that feta, and mix it all for this vibrant and satisfying dish. With such a simple ingredients list, you will be done making the salad in no time. Enjoy it as a lunch or a tasty side with your BBQ.
Did you treat yourself to this healthy tomato salad recipe? Let me know if you liked it, and share your versions of this salad—I'd love to see your twists!
More Healthy Salad Recipes
Looking for more low-carb salad recipes? Check out some of my popular recipes I've put together for you:
FAQs
You can find less salty feta cheese by choosing varieties labeled as "low sodium" or "reduced salt" options.
Look for tomatoes that are firm but yield slightly to pressure when squeezed. They should have a rich color, whether red, yellow, or heirloom varieties. Avoid tomatoes that are overly soft, blemished, or have a dull appearance.
Greek salad with feta can typically last 1-2 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. However, it's best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and texture.
Yes, you can definitely add basil leaves to enhance the flavor of your tomato feta salad. Just tear or chop the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the salad before serving for a fresh and aromatic touch.
Tomato Feta Salad 🍅
Ingredients
Tomato Feta Salad Ingredients List
- You'll need the following ingredients for this fresh summer salad with feta cheese:
- 1.5 pounds heirloom tomatoes
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbles
- ¼ cup virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Instructions
- Wash, core, and dice the tomatoes. Place in a large, non-reactive (glass, ceramic, or plastic) bowl.
- Add the salt and mix well. Allow to rest for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, strain the liquid from the tomatoes. Discard the liquid.
- Add in all the remaining ingredients. Mix well.
- Keep refrigerated before serving.
Notes
If this Tomato Feta Salad recipe is a hit for you, please share your thoughts! If you have tips for making it even more low carb, I'd love to read your comments below! Have a wonderful day in the kitchen!
Nutrition
“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”
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