This Lebanese Tomato Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish, featuring the perfect combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. It’s simple, healthy, and full of flavor, making it the ideal side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is a refreshing, light, and healthy option that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. The sweetness of the tomatoes is balanced by the crunchiness of the cucumber and the fragrant dried mint, while the olive oil and lemon juice dressing ties everything together perfectly. It’s quick to make, requires no cooking, and is packed with nutrients—what’s not to love?
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 cups tomatoes, diced
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1 cucumber, diced
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1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon dried mint
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Salt and pepper, to taste
directions
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Prepare the veggies: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
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Make the dressing: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Sprinkle with dried mint, salt, and pepper.
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Toss and serve: Toss everything together well and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Calories: 70 kcal per serving
Variations
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Add feta: For extra creaminess, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the salad before serving.
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Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
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Herb alternatives: Try fresh mint or parsley in place of dried mint for a more vibrant, fresh flavor.
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Add olives: Add some Kalamata olives to the salad for a salty, briny kick.
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Pine nuts: Toasted pine nuts add a nice crunch and additional flavor if you’re looking for a more indulgent version.
storage/reheating
This salad is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The flavors will meld even more, but the veggies will lose some of their crispness over time.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots to make the salad even more colorful and crunchy.
Can I use fresh mint instead of dried mint?
Yes, fresh mint is a great substitute! Use about 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh mint for a burst of freshness.
How can I make this salad a complete meal?
To make this salad more filling, consider adding chickpeas, quinoa, or grilled chicken to the mix for extra protein.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in the fridge for 1-2 days. Be mindful that the cucumber and tomatoes may release water over time.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the salad in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing and toss it just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.
Conclusion
This Lebanese Tomato Salad is the perfect dish for a refreshing, healthy, and light meal. The combination of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and the tangy lemon dressing makes it a standout at any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
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Lebanese Tomato Salad
This Lebanese Tomato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant side dish made with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and red onion, all tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing with a sprinkle of dried mint. It’s light, healthy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor—perfect for summer meals, picnics, or a quick nutritious lunch.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
2 cups tomatoes, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried mint
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare vegetables: In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
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Make the dressing: Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
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Season and toss: Sprinkle in dried mint, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
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Serve: Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Notes
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Feta option: Add crumbled feta for a creamy, tangy boost.
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Spice it up: Include chili flakes for some heat.
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Fresh herbs: Use chopped fresh mint or parsley for extra brightness.
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Add-ins: Try Kalamata olives or toasted pine nuts for more texture and flavor.
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Meal idea: Add chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it a full meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Lebanese, Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
