Sliced Tomato with Salt & Pepper

Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones we end up making the most.

I first started making these sliced tomatoes on slow weekend mornings when I wanted something fresh on the table without turning on the stove. One weekend, a family member suggested that I stop adding so many ingredients and just try ripe tomatoes with salt and freshly ground pepper. I was skeptical at first, but honestly, they were right.

The tomatoes were juicy, naturally sweet, and perfectly seasoned. My family finished the whole plate before I even had a chance to go back for more.

Since then, this has become one of those little recipes I make whenever I need something quick. If I’m stressed after a busy day, I’ll put together a plate while dinner is cooking. If we’re having a relaxed weekend breakfast, I’ll serve it alongside eggs and toast. And when I’m in a particularly happy mood, there’s something about bright, juicy tomatoes on the table that makes the meal feel a little more special.

It takes just a few minutes, but it never feels boring.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It takes only a few minutes to prepare.

• You need just three basic ingredients.

• There’s no cooking required.

• It’s fresh, juicy, and naturally flavorful.

• It works beautifully as a side dish, snack, or breakfast addition.

• You can easily dress it up with herbs, olive oil, or cheese.

Ingredients

• 2 large ripe tomatoes

• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

Optional Additions

You can keep this recipe completely classic, or add:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• Fresh basil or mint

• A squeeze of lemon juice

• Crumbled feta cheese

• A pinch of chili flakes

How to Make Sliced Tomato with Salt & Pepper

Step 1: Wash the tomatoes

Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Slice the tomatoes

Using a sharp knife, cut the tomatoes into even slices. I usually aim for slices about 1/4-inch thick, but there is no need to be too precise.

Step 3: Arrange on a plate

Place the slices on a serving plate. You can overlap them slightly or arrange them in a single layer.

Step 4: Add salt and pepper

Sprinkle the tomatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

I like to season them lightly at first and taste one slice before adding more. Good tomatoes don’t need much seasoning.

Step 5: Let them sit briefly

Let the seasoned tomatoes rest for a minute or two before serving. The salt draws out a little of their natural juice, creating a simple, delicious dressing on the plate.

My Best Tips

Choose flavorful tomatoes. Since there are only three ingredients, the quality of the tomatoes makes a big difference.

Use freshly ground pepper. It gives the dish a much more noticeable aroma and flavor than ordinary pre-ground pepper.

Don’t add too much salt at once. Tomatoes are naturally flavorful, so start small and add more if necessary.

Serve immediately. The longer salted tomatoes sit, the more liquid they release. They’re best when served soon after seasoning.

Use a sharp knife. A dull knife can crush soft tomatoes instead of making clean slices.

What to Serve With It

I love serving these tomatoes with scrambled eggs, fried eggs, toast, or a simple breakfast spread.

They also make an easy side for grilled chicken, sandwiches, rice dishes, roasted vegetables, or pasta.

And on especially lazy evenings, I’ve been known to pile the tomato slices onto toasted bread with a little cheese and call it dinner. It’s simple, but sometimes simple is exactly what you want.

Easy Variations

Mediterranean Tomato Slices

Add a drizzle of olive oil, crumbled feta, and fresh oregano or basil.

Spicy Tomato Slices

Add a pinch of chili flakes or a little finely chopped fresh chili.

Lemon Pepper Tomatoes

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice along with the salt and pepper.

Tomato Toast

Place the seasoned slices over warm toasted bread and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.

Tomato and Mozzarella

Add fresh mozzarella and basil for an easy Caprese-inspired version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make sliced tomatoes ahead of time?

You can slice the tomatoes a little ahead, but I recommend waiting to add the salt until just before serving. Salt pulls moisture from tomatoes, so they can become watery if left seasoned for too long.

What tomatoes are best for this recipe?

Use tomatoes that are ripe, juicy, and flavorful. Vine-ripened tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, and fresh garden tomatoes all work well.

Can I use olive oil?

Absolutely. A small drizzle of olive oil adds richness and makes the tomatoes feel more like a traditional salad.

Can I add herbs?

Yes. Fresh basil, mint, parsley, oregano, or cilantro can all work depending on the flavor you’re after.

Is this good for breakfast?

Definitely. I especially like it with eggs and toast. It’s a refreshing addition to a heavier breakfast.

How do I stop the tomatoes from becoming watery?

Don’t salt them too far in advance, and serve them soon after seasoning. Choosing firm, ripe tomatoes rather than overly soft ones also helps.

Can I turn this into a complete meal?

Yes. Serve the tomatoes with eggs, avocado, cheese, toasted bread, beans, or grilled chicken to make the meal more filling.

Nutrition Information

The following estimates are based on 1 serving from 2 servings, using tomatoes, salt, and pepper only.

*Sodium will vary depending on the amount and type of salt used.

Final Thoughts

There’s something comforting about recipes like this. They don’t ask much from you.

Just find a couple of good tomatoes, slice them up, add a little salt and pepper, and you’re done.