Tomato Cracker Salad
Tomato Cracker Salad is a Southern classic that’s simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. It combines juicy tomatoes, crispy crackers, creamy mayonnaise, and seasonings to create a deliciously crunchy and tangy salad. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a quick side dish when fresh tomatoes are in season.
Ingredients
2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (Roma, heirloom, or cherry)
20-25 saltine crackers, roughly crushed
½ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s recommended)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ cup chopped green onions or fresh basil
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
1. Dice the tomatoes and drain any excess liquid to prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.
2. Roughly crush the saltine crackers into bite-sized pieces (not too fine).
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
1. In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
1. Add the diced tomatoes and gently toss to coat with the dressing.
2. Just before serving, fold in the crushed crackers to maintain their crunch.
3. Sprinkle with chopped green onions (or fresh basil) and shredded cheese (if using).
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
1. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture.
2. Garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 200 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fats: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
Cook Time & Prep Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Notes & Variations
Best Served Fresh: The crackers soften quickly, so mix them in just before serving.
Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier version.
Add Protein: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon or shredded chicken for a heartier salad.
Crunchier Twist: Try using buttery Ritz crackers or even seasoned croutons for added crunch.
Storage: Not ideal for storage since the crackers will get soggy, but you can prepare everything in advance and mix it right before serving.
This Tomato Cracker Salad is a quick, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm days and casual meals. Enjoy!