Tomato and red onion salad with za’atar: a vibrant Mediterranean tomato salad

If you're looking for a Mediterranean salad that's quick, simple, and packed with flavor, this tomato and red onion salad with za’atar is a perfect choice. With just a handful of ingredients, this salad can be enjoyed immediately, and it gets even better as it sits in the fridge.

It takes only 10 minutes to whip up, making it a great choice for busy days. The secret to its amazing taste is using high-quality olive oil and an authentic Levantine za’atar. My blend, Zen’s Za’atar, is sourced from Jordan and brings a vibrant, fresh flavor to the salad.

Origins of Middle Eastern tomato salad

Tomatoes made their way to the Middle East in the early 1800s, quickly becoming a staple in Levantine cuisine. This simple tomato salad draws inspiration from the rich flavors and ingredients typical of the region, such as tomatoes, olive oil, mint, za’atar, and sumac. These ingredients are at the heart of many Levantine dishes, providing a burst of freshness and vibrancy.

Za’atar holds a special place in my heart. Central to Palestinian and Levantine cuisine, it is an herb deeply ingrained in our culture and traditions. The za’atar herb is a distinct species native to the Levant. This unique herb has been cherished for centuries, contributing its earthy, zesty flavor to countless dishes.

However, access to wild za’atar has been restricted to Palestinians since 1977, when Israel enacted a law making it illegal for Palestinians to pick za’atar. This law effectively criminalized a vital part of Palestinian culture and identity.

This tomato and red onion salad, inspired by Levantine flavors and ingredients, is a tribute to the vibrant and rich culinary traditions of the Middle East. It pairs wonderfully with various dishes and can be enjoyed as a refreshing side, scooped with bread, or on top of toast. Whether you're hosting or simply looking for a quick and healthy dish, this salad is sure to impress.

Ingredient notes

The charm of this Mediterranean tomato salad is in its simple, high-quality ingredients.

Tomatoes

I love using vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for this salad. Their natural sweetness and juiciness add a burst of flavor to every bite. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene.

Red onions

Red onions add a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a beautiful pop of color to the salad. They are also packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. Thinly slicing the onions makes them a perfect match for the tomatoes.

Olive oil

A good-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for this dish. It not only adds a rich, fruity flavor but also provides healthy fats and antioxidants. Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean diets and is known for its numerous health benefits, including heart health and anti-inflammatory properties. I prefer to use a high-quality Palestinian olive oil, like Canaan Fair Trade Organic.

Mint leaves

Fresh mint leaves bring a refreshing, aromatic note to the salad. They complement the tomatoes and onions beautifully.

Za’atar

Za’atar is the star of this salad. My special blend, Zen’s Za’atar, combines the traditional za’atar herb with sesame seeds, sumac, and other spices, creating a complex and flavorful seasoning. This blend is a nutritional powerhouse, offering antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering benefits.

Lemon juice

Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the olive oil.

Sumac

Sumac is a tangy, lemony spice that adds a burst of flavor and fruitiness to the dish.

See the recipe card for exact quantities.

How to make tomato and red onion salad

Making this salad is incredibly easy and straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you prepare it:

Prepare the ingredients

Slice the tomatoes into half-slices. Slice the red onions thinly.

Add the ingredients

In a large bowl, add the tomatoes and onions. Then, add the mint leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, salt, and a portion of the za’atar.

Combine everything

Toss gently to coat the salad with the dressing.

Season and serve

Sprinkle the remaining za’atar on top of the salad. Serve immediately or let it sit in the fridge for a while to allow the flavors to develop even more.

Hint: For the best flavor, use a high-quality olive oil and fresh ingredients whenever possible.

Substitutions & variations

This versatile salad can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Lemon juice: If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use vinegar as a substitute. It adds a similar tangy flavor.
• Mint leaves: If you’re not a fan of mint, try using fresh parsley or basil instead.

• Add protein: For a heartier salad, add chickpeas or white beans. They provide extra protein and make the salad more filling.
• Extra veggies: Thinly sliced cucumbers or bell peppers can be added for more crunch and flavor.
• Spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a hint of shatta (spicy red pepper paste).

Top tips for making this simple tomato salad

To make the best tomato and red onion salad, here are some tips:

• Use ripe tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are sweeter and juicier, which enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
• Let it sit: If you have time, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

FAQs

Is tomato and onion salad good for you?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the tomatoes, onions, and herbs. It's a nutritious and low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy, Mediterranean diet.

What are the benefits of eating tomato salad daily?

Eating a tomato salad daily can provide numerous health benefits. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which is an antioxidant known for its potential to reduce the risk of certain diseases. The salad also provides fiber, vitamins A and C, and healthy fats from the olive oil.

Can you put raw red onions in a salad?

Yes, raw red onions are commonly used in salads. Their mild, slightly sweet flavor adds a delicious crunch and complements other salad ingredients well.

What to serve with this recipe

This tomato and red onion salad pairs wonderfully with various dishes. Here are some of my favorites:

• Mujadara: This salad adds a burst of freshness to my mujadara, a Syrian bulgur wheat and lentils recipe, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
• Za’atar Avocado Toast: Try it on top of my za’atar avocado toast for a delicious and healthy twist.
• Fresh bread: Serve it on top of fresh bread like bruschetta for a delightful and simple appetizer.
• Vegan chicken piccata: It goes perfectly as a side with an Italian-style pasta like my vegan chicken piccata, adding a refreshing contrast.

Recipe

Related recipes

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

• Pearl couscous salad
• Ful medames
• Vegan shakshuka