Onion Tomato Salad
A crisp and refreshing American-style chopped salad with juicy tomatoes, sharp onion, and cool cucumber. Dressed simply with lemon and herbs, it's the perfect zesty side for grilled meats, tacos, or burgers.
For 4 servings
Prepare the vegetables
- Finely chop the onions, tomatoes, and cucumber into small, uniform pieces. A consistent size ensures a balanced flavor in every bite.
- For a milder onion flavor, you can soak the chopped onions in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
- If using, finely mince the deseeded jalapeño. Chop the fresh cilantro.
Combine and dress the salad
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped onion, tomato, cucumber, and jalapeño.
- Add the chopped cilantro.
- Just before serving, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, then drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
Toss and serve
- Gently toss the salad until all the vegetables are lightly coated with the dressing.
- Serve immediately to enjoy its fresh, crisp texture. The salad will become watery if left to sit.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, add the salt and lemon juice right before you plan to serve the salad.
- 2Deseeding the tomatoes is a key step to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
- 3Feel free to swap cilantro with fresh parsley or dill for a different flavor profile.
- 4For a richer dressing, add a teaspoon of olive oil along with the lemon juice.
- 5If you prefer a milder onion taste, soak the chopped onions in cold water for 15 minutes and drain well before using.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1/2 cup of cooked chickpeas or black beans for a boost of plant-based protein and fiber.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the jalapeño entirely. You can add a pinch of sugar to balance the tang of the lemon juice.
quickQuick
Use a food chopper to quickly dice the vegetables, but pulse gently to avoid making them mushy.
healthyHealthy
Add other chopped vegetables like bell peppers or celery for extra crunch and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports heart health.
Excellent for Hydration
Cucumbers are over 95% water, making this salad a delicious and refreshing way to help stay hydrated.
Boosts Immunity
The combination of onions, cilantro, and lemon juice provides a good dose of Vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. It's low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables. The simple lemon dressing keeps it light and free of unhealthy fats.