Dessert

Tomato Salad with Feta, Fresh Herbs, and Red Onion Recipe

ByClara Bennett August 8, 2026August 8, 2026

Introduction

This vibrant tomato salad is a refreshing blend of ripe tomatoes, tangy feta, and fragrant fresh herbs. Perfect as a light side dish or a quick lunch, it combines crisp onions and a flavorful honey-mustard dressing for a delicious and simple recipe.

A white oval bowl filled with a tomato salad placed on a white marbled surface, showing multiple layers of bright red tomato wedges mixed with thin strips of translucent purple onions. The salad is sprinkled with small white feta cheese crumbles and chopped green herbs, creating a colorful contrast. A shiny gold spoon rests inside the bowl, partially covered by the salad ingredients. In the upper left corner, there is a small white bowl with more chopped green herbs scattered around on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 small red onion, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons honey
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and cut into 1/2″ wedges
4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (such as tarragon, parsley, mint, and/or basil)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, cover the thinly sliced onion with ice water. Let it sit, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes to mellow the flavor. Drain and pat dry.
Step 2: Meanwhile, whisk together the red wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a large bowl. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Add the tomato wedges to the bowl and gently toss to coat them evenly with the dressing. Let the salad marinate at room temperature for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the crumbled feta, chopped fresh herbs, and drained onions to the salad. Gently toss everything together to combine. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use heirloom tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.
Substitute honey with maple syrup to make it vegan-friendly.
Try adding a handful of toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the tomatoes may release more juice, so gently drain any excess liquid before serving. Because of the fresh herbs and feta, this salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not ideal for long-term storage. Reheat is not recommended.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with large, bright red tomato wedges that form the main layer, topped with thin, light purple onion slices scattered across. Crumbled white cheese is sprinkled evenly over the tomatoes, adding a soft, rough texture. Small pieces of fresh green herbs are spread on top, enhancing the color contrast. A woman's hand is seen gently adding herbs, positioned above the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a subtle texture visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of vinegar for the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or sherry vinegar for a slightly different but still delicious flavor.

How can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the dressing and slice the vegetables a few hours in advance, but toss everything together just before serving to keep the tomatoes fresh and the feta from becoming soggy.