Tuscan artichoke tomato salad is a light, vibrant dish that’s full of Mediterranean flavor and perfect for warm days or refreshing sides. It combines juicy cherry tomatoes, tender marinated artichoke hearts, and fragrant herbs, all tossed in a zesty olive oil dressing. I love making this salad when I want something simple, healthy, and bursting with color and freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this salad because it’s so easy to throw together, yet it tastes like something I’d get at a rustic Italian café. The ingredients are bold on their own—ripe tomatoes, savory artichokes, fresh basil—but when they’re combined, they create a balanced, refreshing bite every time. It’s a perfect make-ahead side for picnics, dinners, or even a light lunch.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
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Marinated artichoke hearts, quartered
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Red onion, thinly sliced
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Fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
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Olive oil
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Red wine vinegar or lemon juice
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Garlic, minced
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Optional: kalamata olives, shaved parmesan, arugula
Directions
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I start by halving the cherry tomatoes and quartering the artichoke hearts.
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I add them to a large bowl along with thinly sliced red onion and chopped fresh basil.
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In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
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I pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently until well combined.
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I let the salad sit for about 10–15 minutes at room temperature to let the flavors meld.
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I serve it chilled or at room temperature, depending on the meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Rest time: 10 minutes (optional for more flavor)
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I add sliced olives for a briny bite or toss in a handful of arugula for extra greens. If I want it more filling, I’ve added cooked farro or chickpeas. Crumbled feta or shaved parmesan also works well for a creamier contrast. For a little heat, I sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors actually get better as they sit. I don’t reheat it—this salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If it’s been in the fridge, I let it sit out for a few minutes before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use canned artichokes instead of marinated?
Yes, but I usually add extra olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings since canned artichokes are more plain than marinated ones.
How far in advance can I make this?
I make it up to a day ahead. It keeps well and tastes even better after the flavors meld for a few hours.
What tomatoes work best?
I prefer cherry or grape tomatoes for their sweetness and low water content, but any ripe tomato can be chopped and used.
Is this salad vegan?
Yes, as long as I don’t add cheese. It’s naturally plant-based and full of fresh, whole ingredients.
What should I serve this with?
It pairs great with grilled chicken, fish, crusty bread, or pasta. I’ve also used it as a topping for toasted baguette slices.
Conclusion
Tuscan artichoke tomato salad is fresh, fast, and full of bold Mediterranean flavor. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it makes any meal feel a little brighter. Whether I serve it as a side dish, a starter, or a light lunch, this salad always delivers crisp, tangy, herb-filled bites that taste like summer in a bowl.
Print
Tuscan Artichoke Tomato Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (including rest time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Tuscan artichoke tomato salad is a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dish with juicy tomatoes, marinated artichokes, and fragrant herbs tossed in a zesty olive oil dressing. It’s quick, colorful, and perfect as a light side or lunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 (14 oz) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup kalamata olives, 1/4 cup shaved parmesan, handful of arugula
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, quartered artichoke hearts, sliced red onion, and chopped basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with optional toppings if desired.
Notes
- Add farro or chickpeas for a more filling version.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Crumbled feta or shaved parmesan adds a creamy contrast.
- Use canned artichokes with extra seasoning if marinated ones aren’t available.
- Serve with grilled chicken, fish, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
