If you love the bright, juicy burst of tomatoes paired with the fresh, aromatic punch of basil, you are going to absolutely adore this Fresh Cherry Tomato Salad with Basil and Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s a celebration of summer flavors in one vibrant dish, combining the crisp sweetness of cherry tomatoes with a tangy, herb-infused vinaigrette that wakes up your taste buds. This salad is incredibly simple to make yet delivers an unforgettable medley of textures and flavors, making it the perfect addition to any meal or gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh Cherry Tomato Salad with Basil and Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe - Recipe Image

The beauty of this Fresh Cherry Tomato Salad with Basil and Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while adding depth and balance to the dish. From the sharpness of the garlic to the smooth richness of olive oil, these components come together in perfect harmony.

4 cups quartered cherry tomatoes: The star of the dish, fresh and juicy for vibrant color and sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, finely minced: Adds a subtle spicy warmth that elevates the vinaigrette.
¼ cup olive oil: Provides a silky texture and richness to the dressing.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil: Infuses the salad with a fresh, peppery aroma and flavor.
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Offers a tangy zing to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A flavorful blend of herbs that adds complexity to every bite.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar or honey: Balances the acidity and brings a gentle sweetness.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors for a perfectly seasoned salad.
Additional chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish): Adds a beautiful pop of green and extra freshness.

How to Make Fresh Cherry Tomato Salad with Basil and Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes

Start by quartering the fresh cherry tomatoes and placing them in a large bowl. This is such an easy prep step, but it ensures that every bite has the perfect balance of tomato and dressing.

Step 2: Whisk the Vinaigrette

In a small mixing bowl, combine finely minced garlic, olive oil, freshly chopped basil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, sugar or honey, and salt. Whisk vigorously until the sugar dissolves completely and the ingredients form a cohesive vinaigrette. This dressing is what truly brings the salad to life with its bright, balanced flavors.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Vinaigrette

Pour the vinaigrette over the quartered cherry tomatoes and gently fold the mixture with a silicone spatula until every piece is evenly coated. This ensures that the delicious vinaigrette penetrates the tomatoes for maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Chill and Infuse

Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least two hours. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a harmonious, mouthwatering experience that’s worth the wait.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle additional chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of color and freshness. The salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it a perfect cool side for warm weather meals.

How to Serve Fresh Cherry Tomato Salad with Basil and Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe

A white bowl filled with bright red cherry tomatoes cut in half, mixed with small slices of fresh green basil leaves scattered evenly on top; the tomatoes have a shiny, juicy texture with some black pepper seasoning visible. The bowl sits on a wooden surface with a small bottle of yellow olive oil at the bottom left and a vine of whole red cherry tomatoes placed at the bottom right. A few basil leaves and a small white dish of salt are also on the wooden surface around the bowl, all placed on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond fresh basil, you can elevate this salad with a sprinkle of crumbled feta or shaved parmesan for a salty contrast, or add a few toasted pine nuts to introduce a buttery crunch. Fresh cracked black pepper can also enhance the complexity with a slight heat kick.

Side Dishes

This fresh cherry tomato salad shines as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty steak. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a bright complement to pasta dishes and rice bowls, making your meals feel light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling playful? Serve this salad atop toasted baguette slices for quick bruschetta, or fold it into a bowl of mixed greens for a refreshing garden salad. It also makes a colorful topping for bruschetta or even a summery pizza, showcasing the flexibility of this recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, so your leftovers might be even tastier the next day. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezing

Because this salad is fresh and loaded with vibrant tomatoes, freezing is not recommended. The tomatoes will break down and lose their crisp texture once frozen and thawed.

Reheating

This salad is intended to be served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary or advised. If you prefer it less cold, simply set it on the counter for 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Absolutely! Grape tomatoes, plum, campari, or even small standard tomatoes work well in this recipe. Just adjust the quartering or slicing size to keep that perfect texture and balance.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this Fresh Cherry Tomato Salad with Basil and Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe is naturally vegan. Just double-check that your sugar is vegan-friendly or substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar if you want to be certain.

Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just whisk again before combining with the tomatoes to refresh the flavors.

What’s the best way to serve this salad for a party?

Chill it thoroughly beforehand and serve it in a wide, shallow bowl for easy access. Adding extra fresh basil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before guests arrive will keep the salad looking and tasting vibrant.

Can I add other herbs?

Definitely! Fresh oregano or thyme work nicely if you want to mix things up, but basil really is the heart of this recipe. Adding too many herbs can overpower the delicate balance, so keep additions subtle.

Final Thoughts

This Fresh Cherry Tomato Salad with Basil and Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings freshness and brightness to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it as a simple side or a highlight on a warm afternoon, it embodies the joyful flavors of summer in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how effortlessly delicious fresh ingredients can come together!