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Feta Cheese Tomato Basil Salad - Simple, Fresh, and Flavorful

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds ripe tomatoes (heirloom, Roma, or cherry), cut into bite-size pieces
  • 6–8 ounces feta cheese, preferably in a block, cut into small cubes or crumbled
  • 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced (optional, but recommended)
  • 1 packed cup fresh basil leaves, torn by hand
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated or minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, but classic)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey (optional, for balancing acidity)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the tomatoes: Wash and dry the tomatoes. Cut them into even pieces. If using cherry tomatoes, halve or quarter them. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  • Salt and rest: Sprinkle the tomatoes with a pinch of kosher salt and let them sit for 5–10 minutes. This draws out juices and concentrates flavor.
  • Slice the onion: If using red onion, slice it very thin. If you prefer a milder bite, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. If your tomatoes are very tangy, add a tiny pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey.
  • Add the feta and onion: Add the feta and red onion to the tomatoes. If using a block of feta, cut into small cubes for creamy, satisfying bites.
  • Toss gently: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat without breaking up the feta too much.
  • Add the basil last: Tear the basil leaves by hand and fold them in lightly. Tearing helps release aroma without bruising the leaves.
  • Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or acid to taste. If the salad seems flat, a splash more vinegar or lemon can brighten it.
  • Serve: Transfer to a shallow bowl or platter. For extra flavor, finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a few cracks of black pepper.