This Romanian tomato salad recipe simply screams “summer”. It is a very simple but extremely flavourful recipe that highlights the natural sweetness and juiciness of ripe tomatoes. This was a classic side dish that I would eat every week during the hot summers in Romania, especially when made with tomatoes from the garden. You need really good quality tomatoes to achieve that mouthwatering taste that will leave you craving this salad pretty much every day. When the salad is finished, I still love to dip pieces of bread into the juices left at the bottom of the bowl. Yum!
Ingredients for the Romanian Tomato Salad Recipe
To make this delicious Romanian tomato salad, you will only need a handful of ingredients, so make sure they are very high quality. Especially the tomatoes, which are the star of the dish. Use ripe tomatoes bought from the farmers market, if you’re not growing your own. You will also need half an onion, a little bit of olive oil, lemon juice, and some sea salt.
How to Make the Romanian Tomato Salad
Start by cutting the tomatoes into slices. In most of the Romanian salads, the tomatoes are sliced rather than chopped into small cubes. The onion, however, is cut into thin slices, so it distributes evenly inside the salad and doesn’t overpower the taste of the tomatoes.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes and onions. Gently toss them together to mix. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, the olive oil and a generous pinch of sea salt. Mix the ingredients well but gently, making sure the tomatoes don’t break apart.
To achieve that delicious taste of this tomato salad, you need to be patient and let it chill in the fridge for a couple of hours. Just before serving, optionally sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve the tomato salad as a side dish to accompany grilled or fried dishes.
Notes and Tips:
- For the best texture and flavour, slice the tomatoes rather than cutting them into small cubes.
- Choose ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best results. The flavour of the salad heavily relies on the quality of the tomatoes used.
- Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving allows the olive oil and the lemon juice to infuse the taste of the tomatoes.
Romanian Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 red onion
- juice from half a lemon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- a pinch of sea salt
- a few springs or parsley optional
Instructions
- Start by cutting the onion into thin slices.
- Then, slice the tomatoes into even slices.
- Combine the sliced tomatoes and onions in a bowl.
- Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with sea salt.
- Mix everything together gently to avoid breaking the tomatoes.
- Place the bowl in the refrigerator and let the salad chill for a couple of hours.
- Just before serving, optional, sprinkle with chopped parsley.
FAQ:
What kind of tomatoes can I use to make this salad?
Yes, you can use any variety of tomatoes you prefer. Heirloom, cherry, or beefsteak tomatoes can all work well. Just ensure they are ripe and juicy. I like to use my own homegrown beef tomatoes.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
While the classic recipe only requires tomatoes, you can add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers.
How long can I store the tomato salad?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The tomatoes might release more juice as they sit.
What can I serve with Romanian tomato salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a side dish to your favourite Romanian dishes.
For more traditional Romanian salads check out my recommendations below:
- Romanian Boeuf salad recipe
- Romanian grilled peppers salad recipe
- Romanian eggplant salad recipe
- Romanian summer salad recipe
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