Moroccan Tomato Salad: A Fresh, Flavorful, and Vibrant Side Dish
Discovering the Beauty of Moroccan Tomato Salad
Hi there, food lovers! I’m the same if you are; you love a dish that’s easy on the prep and full of bright flavors. I’m thrilled to share one of my favorite salads today: Moroccan Tomato Salad. This traditional Moroccan salad features the freshest ingredients, best complemented by bold spices, to provide a guaranteed burst of color and flavor.
Around the time of a family gathering, I first ran into this salad, and I was smitten. Full of the freshness of tomatoes, the zing of the lemon, and the warmth of the spices, the dish is perfect for the more traditional taste of warm weather meals, barbecues, or as part of a mezze spread. Light but with plenty of flavor, it’s just what you want when you need something quick, healthy, and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Tomato Salad
There are many reasons to make this salad a meal rotation for you. Here are just a few:
- Fresh and Flavorful: This is a so refreshing salad with ripe, juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a citrusy and spiced dressing.
- Simple and Quick: Even easier, the ingredients come together in less than 15 minutes for those busy days or when last-minute side dishes are needed.
- Healthy and Light: Packed with fresh vegetables and nutritious olive oil, you can indulge – guilt-free.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Serve as a part of a mezze platter, next to grilled meats, or as a light lunch. Which means it is a collection for any occasion.
Moroccan Tomato Salad: A Fresh, Flavorful, and Vibrant Side Dish
Course: Salads, SidesCuisine: MoroccanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes150
kcalMoroccan Tomato Salad — A bright and flavorful dish using tomatoes, herbs and rich Moroccan spices including cumin & paprika. This lemon olive oil salad with salt is a very modest and savory side dish or mezze course dressed in only the best (extra virgin)assets from Lebanese pantryictory. It makes an incredibly healthy addition to any meal, and it takes no time at all.
Ingredients
Four ripe tomatoes, diced
One small red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
Preserved lemon, diced, for an authentic Moroccan touch
Black or green olives for extra flavor
Capers, for a briny kick
Jalapeños or chili flakes, if you like some heat
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by dicing the tomatoes and finely chopping the red onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro (if using). Mix everything into a large mixing bowl. - Make the Dressing
Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Season to taste and adjust if needed. - Toss the Salad
Add the dressing to the tomatoes and onions and mix gently. Be sure the vegetables are nicely coated in the tasty dressing. - Let the Flavors Meld
The salad should rest for 10 – 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor. This means the tomatoes get the dressing and spices all around, making the salad tastier. - Serve and Enjoy!
Cold, a variation on the lettuce, anchovy, or tabbouleh salads can be served as a side dish, accompaniment to mezze, or alongside grilled meats or fish. It’s also a great light, refreshing lunch.
Recipe Video
Notes
- The salad needs 10-15 mins to rest after mixing for the best flavor. That way the spices and dressing get time to sit with tomatoes & onions, which in turn improves flavor overall. If you are adding anything salty like preserved lemon, or olives then just adjust the salt as these items will add this for us.
Types of Condiments and Dressings to Use in Moroccan Tomato Salad
While the basic dressing for this salad is olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, and paprika, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes:
- Preserved Lemon Dressing: Preserved lemon added into the dressing or directly to the salad provides more authenticity of a Moroccan flavor. The tomatoes are sweet enough to fight off the tart, salty flavors of the lemon.
- Herb and Spice Variations: If you want a fresh twist, use mint or oregano. Adjust the spice level by adding another spoonful of paprika or another pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Garlic and Vinegar: If you like a more robust flavor, then add minced garlic, or even a bit of red wine vinegar, to the dressing.
- Tahini Dressing: If you’d like a more creamy option, whisk tahini with lemon juice, garlic, and water and drizzle this on the salad.
Health Benefits of Moroccan Tomato Salad
This Moroccan Tomato Salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly nutritious:
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes have antioxidants such as lycopene that help to protect the heart and prevent certain types of cancer.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy fats and offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Fresh Herbs: Vitamins A and C are essential for your immune system and good health, and you can get both in parsley and cilantro.
- Spices: These same cumin and paprika are also packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and this salad is a potent addition to your diet.
Serving Suggestions and Storing Tips
This salad is very versatile and goes with any dish. Here are some tips for serving and storing:
- Serve with Grilled Meats: Moroccan tomato salad pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, chicken, or fish. It gives richness to other protein-rich foods.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made up to a few hours ahead. The more it sits, the better it tastes. And just be sure to put that in the fridge.
- Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Serve the salad fresh, though it will be good the next day.
Conclusion: A Salad Bursting with Flavor and Freshness
And there you have it—my take on the Moroccan Tomato Salad! The tangy, fresh, spicy balance makes this a dish that is perfect for being a side or a light meal. At any time of year, whether serving it as the star of the summer barbecue alongside grilled meats or part of a mezze spread, this salad will add vibrant, bright, Moroccan-inspired flavors to your table.
And when you try it, I can’t wait! Share your salad customization. Let me know how you customize your salad and don’t forget to share it in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Very much so this salad can be made up to a few hours in advance. Letting it sit is excellent because the flavors meld together so wonderfully. Simply put it in the fridge and serve when you’re ready.
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! Ripe red tomatoes are traditional, but you can substitute cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, or your favorite type.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
Indeed, this salad is naturally vegan. It’s all plant-based, perfect for vegan or vegetarian meals.
Can I make it spicier?
If you want some heat to add to the dressing, you can sieve chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper.
