A Refreshing Southern Tomato Salad Bursting with Garden Flavor
Tomato Salad is a light and refreshing Southern side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes with crisp onions, green peppers, celery, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Chilled before serving, this colorful salad is the perfect companion to grilled meats, fried chicken, barbecue, or any summertime meal.
Featured in Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon, this simple recipe celebrates the abundance of fresh garden vegetables and the Southern tradition of letting quality ingredients shine.
Ingredients
- 4 cups tomatoes (stewed)
- 1/3 cup onion (chopped)
- 1/3 cup green pepper (chopped)
- 3/4 cup celery (chopped)
- 4 Tablespoons sugar
- 6 Tablespoons vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Serves: 4–6
Instructions
- Drain the stewed tomatoes well and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the chopped onion, green pepper, and celery to the tomatoes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, vinegar, olive oil, mustard seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to blend.
- Stir gently before serving and enjoy chilled.
Closing Summary / Pro Tips
- A light, tangy tomato salad perfect for summer meals.
- Best when prepared several hours ahead for maximum flavor.
- Pairs beautifully with barbecue, grilled meats, seafood, and fried chicken.
- Easily customized with fresh herbs or additional seasonal vegetables.
About the Creator
Ethel Rayson Dixon, a Louisiana native, shares recipes inspired by generations of Southern home cooking. Her cookbook highlights comforting dishes rooted in Black culinary traditions and celebrates the warmth of homemade meals prepared with simple ingredients and care.
Ethel Rayson Dixon | Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon.
Find more amazing recipes like this in the book, available through local booksellers and online retailers.
