Onion and Tomato Salad
A refreshing and simple salad with crisp red onions, juicy tomatoes, and fresh cilantro, tossed in a zesty lemon and black salt dressing. A perfect no-oil side dish ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the vegetables
- Wash the tomatoes and cilantro thoroughly.
- Chop the tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and thinly slice the red onions.
- Finely chop the cilantro and the green chili (if using).
Combine and season the salad
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced onions, cilantro, and green chili.
- Drizzle the lemon juice over the vegetables.
- Sprinkle with black salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Toss everything together gently until well combined.
Rest and serve
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Give it one final toss and serve immediately as a refreshing side.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a less pungent onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain well before adding to the salad.
- 2Use ripe but firm tomatoes so the salad doesn't become watery.
- 3Adjust the amount of green chili to your preferred spice level, or omit it entirely.
- 4This salad is best served fresh as the tomatoes will release water over time.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Add 1 cup of chopped cucumber for extra crunch and hydration without significantly increasing calories.
quickQuick
For a tangy twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of chaat masala along with the other seasonings.
high proteinHigh protein
Make it a more substantial salad by adding 1 cup of boiled chickpeas or black beans.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the green chili and red onion, and add sweet corn kernels and finely chopped bell peppers.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Low in Calories
With no oil and fresh vegetables as its base, this salad is extremely low in calories, making it ideal for weight management.
Boosts Immunity
The high Vitamin C content from both the tomatoes and lemon juice helps to strengthen the immune system.
Hydrating
Tomatoes have high water content, which helps in keeping the body hydrated.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's low in calories, fat-free, and packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables. The lemon juice provides Vitamin C, and there is no oil.
