Tomato Salad with Goat Cheese Recipe

This Tomato Salad with Goat Cheese is an easy last-minute side dish, and the perfect complement to the hot summer days. The juicy tomatoes and creamy goat cheese make it the absolute best summer salad.

tomato and goat cheese salad with balsamic glaze close up

There’s nothing quite like the flavor of fresh summer tomatoes. And while I’m a huge fan of regular tomatoes, I miss the ripeness of summer ones every winter. When summer strikes, this simple salad is my go-to dish. It can absolutely be a side dish to another main course, or a main meal on its own (especially for lunch), which is another reason it’s one of my favorite things to make on repeat during the summer months.

While the flavor of the ripe tomatoes really is a treat to my taste buds, let’s not overlook the delicious addition of the sliced red onions and goat cheese. Combined, this summer tomato salad is a winning choice time and time again.

Be sure to try this Cucumber Avocado Salad and this Raw Carrot Salad for two more super simple, super delicious salad recipes.

Jump Start 2025

Want to really Jump Start your year? Sign up to get 31 days of recipes

tomato and goat cheese salad on small plate with platter behind

Ingredients

Heirloom tomatoes – These are my favorite type of ripe tomatoes, but any variety will work. You want 2-4 tomatoes, depending on their size. Try to choose a variety of colors.
Goat cheese – The texture of soft goat cheese pairs well with the fresh tomatoes.
Red onion – I thinly slice this so it doesn’t overpower the dish.
Olive oil – Used to make the salad dressing.
Balsamic glaze – Adds a nice, sweet, tangy flavor.
Salt and Black pepper – For flavor.
Arugula or spring mix – Either is a delicious addition.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Tomato Salad with Goat Cheese

sliced multi-colored tomatoes on a platter

Step One: Add the arugula or spring mix to a serving platter or plate. Lay the tomato slices onto the platter.

Step Two: Top the sliced tomatoes with slices of goat cheese. Sprinkle on the sliced red onion.

Step Three: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Step Four: Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Top Tip💡

If you don’t want to put this on a platter or plate, you can also use a serving bowl, and instead of slices of the tomatoes, you can cut them into larger chunks and pieces and then top with the other delicious additions.

Substitutions

Fresh mozzarella – Not a fan of goat cheese? No problem. This heirloom tomato salad pairs perfectly well with fresh mozzarella and even feta cheese.

Variations

Crunchy cucumbers – Adding thin slices of cucumbers is a simple way to add texture and crunch. I like to use regular English cucumbers to pair with the tomatoes.
Fresh fruit – Adding some slices of fresh peaches can be a fun sweet/savory option. Watermelon is another great choice.
Herbs – Putting fresh basil leaves on top of the tomatoes is a simple way to add a pop of flavor.

See this Rustic Tomato Pie for another super delicious and simple way to use tomatoes.

Equipment

All you really need to make this simple salad is a serving platter or plate, a cutting board, and a sharp knife. It couldn’t be easier!

Storage

Due to the simplicity of this tomato salad recipe, I highly recommend that you make it fresh and not store it for later. If you do happen to have some tomato slices remaining, store them by themselves in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. You can then use them in another dish, or eat them when the craving strikes.

portion of the tomato and goat cheese salad on a small plate with a bite on a fork

Common Questions

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Absolutely. I love using red and yellow tomatoes when it’s tomato season, but any type of tomato can work just fine. You can even use small cherry tomatoes if you want!

What fresh herbs pair well with this recipe?

I’m all about adding fresh basil to this, but you can add fresh thyme or even some fresh parsley right on top.

If you don’t want to add fresh herbs, you can always sprinkle with more salt and pepper, or even add a bit of Italian seasoning or Everything Bagel seasoning right on top.

Do in-season tomatoes taste differently from ones you buy from the grocery store?

100%, yes. Unless your grocery stores buy from local farmers in the area, you’re missing out. I recommend that you buy locally grown tomatoes when they’re ripe and in season. It’s a game-changer in terms of flavor and taste.

Want to Save This Recipe?

Enter your email below & we’ll send it to your inbox. Plus get great new recipes from us every week!

By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Joy Filled Eats