Southern tomato cracker salad is the perfect way to enjoy fresh summer tomatoes in a quick, flavorful dish. Inspired by the classic tomato sandwich, this refreshing recipe combines juicy heirloom tomatoes, sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy saltine crackers, creamy mayo, chopped green onion, and a dash of salt and black pepper. Everything comes together in one mixing bowl, creating a cool, satisfying salad that highlights the best of simple Southern-style tomato recipes. Finished with a sprinkle of ground black pepper, it’s ideal for hot days, picnics, potlucks, or any moment when you want comfort in every bite.
Southern tomato cracker salad
A refreshing Southern tomato cracker salad that combines the crunch of saltine crackers with the freshness of tomatoes and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus refrigeration time
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Refrigerating
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers, crushed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (or use fresh tomatoes in summer)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (or green onions)
- 1/4 cup chopped green pepper
- 5 boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix all ingredients except the crushed crackers.
- Cover and refrigerate for several hours to let flavors meld.
- Just before serving, fold in the crushed saltines.
- Serve chilled over a bed of lettuce.
Notes
- For a fresher taste, use fresh tomatoes during the summer.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your preference for creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Jump to
Why You’ll Love This Southern Tomato Cracker Salad
- Quick and Easy Prep: This Southern tomato cracker salad comes together in just 15 minutes using simple ingredients—perfect for busy weeknights or casual summer lunches. Just grab your mixing bowl and you’re halfway there!
- Bursting with Flavor: With fresh tomatoes like heirloom or cherry tomatoes, salt and black pepper, chopped green onion, and creamy mayo, each bite offers a vibrant, savory-sweet punch that rivals any classic tomato sandwich.
- Perfect Crunch: Crushed saltine crackers folded in just before serving give the salad its signature texture—light, crispy, and delightfully unexpected in this refreshing tomato cracker salad.
- Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re exploring new tomato recipes or need a unique side for grilled meat, this dish is a standout. Serve it as a main course or alongside summer staples—it satisfies everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Southern Tomato Cracker Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Southern tomato cracker salad a hit. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Saltine crackers: These provide the perfect crunch and salty flavor that complements the fresh ingredients.
- Diced tomatoes: You can use canned tomatoes for convenience or fresh ones during the summer for a burst of flavor.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds a nice bite. Green onions are a great alternative for a milder taste.
- Green pepper: This adds a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to the salad.
- Boiled eggs: Chopped boiled eggs bring creaminess and protein, making the salad more filling.
- Black pepper: A dash of black pepper enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Mayonnaise: This binds everything together. Adjust the amount based on how creamy you like your salad.
How to Make Southern Tomato Cracker Salad
Making this Southern tomato cracker salad is as easy as pie! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, green pepper, boiled eggs, and black pepper. Make sure to mix everything well. This is crucial for flavor integration. You want each bite to be a delightful explosion of taste!
Step 2: Refrigerate
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Pop it in the refrigerator for several hours. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Step 3: Fold in the Crackers
Just before serving, it’s time to add the star of the show: the crushed saltines! Gently fold them into the mixture. Be careful not to crush them too much. You want that satisfying crunch to remain intact!
Step 4: Serve
Now for the fun part! Serve your Southern tomato cracker salad chilled over a bed of crisp lettuce. This not only adds a refreshing touch but also makes for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, especially in summer.
- Adjust the mayonnaise to your liking; start with less and add more if needed.
- Let the salad chill overnight for even better flavor.
- For a twist, try adding diced cucumbers or a sprinkle of cheese.
- Serve immediately after adding the crackers to keep them crunchy.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential. A glass or plastic bowl works well.
- Measuring cups: For accurate ingredient portions. You can also use a kitchen scale if you prefer.
- Plastic wrap or lid: To cover the bowl while refrigerating. A plate can work in a pinch.
- Serving spoon: For mixing and serving the salad. Any large spoon will do!
Variations
- Herbed Twist: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic touch.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Protein Boost: Incorporate shredded chicken or tuna for a heartier salad.
- Vegan Option: Substitute mayonnaise with avocado or a vegan mayo for a plant-based version.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for added creaminess and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Southern tomato cracker salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside crispy fried green tomatoes for a true Southern feast.
- Complement with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade to enhance the flavors.
- For presentation, use colorful lettuce leaves to create a vibrant base.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Southern Tomato Cracker Salad
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes are a fantastic choice, especially in summer. They add a burst of flavor that canned tomatoes can’t quite match. Just make sure to chop them well and drain any excess juice to keep the salad from getting soggy.
How long can I store the salad in the fridge?
This Southern tomato cracker salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to add the crushed crackers right before serving to maintain their crunch!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad mixture a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge. Just fold in the crackers just before serving to keep them crispy. It’s a great time-saver for busy days!
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fried green tomatoes, or even a simple bowl of soup. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
<pYes, indeed! This Southern tomato cracker salad is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for meatless meals. Just be sure to check your mayonnaise if you’re serving it to strict vegetarians.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Southern tomato cracker salad is more than just following a recipe—it’s a celebration of seasonal simplicity and Southern charm. With juicy summer tomatoes, colorful heirloom tomatoes, and bright cherry tomatoes, this dish becomes a fresh feast for both the eyes and the palate. Tossed in a large mixing bowl with crisp green onion, creamy mayo, and crushed saltine crackers, every bite delivers satisfying texture and classic flavor. A dash of salt and black pepper or ground black pepper ties it all together, turning basic ingredients into something truly special.
Much like the nostalgic tomato sandwich, this tomato cracker salad brings warmth and comfort to any table. It’s one of those timeless tomato recipes that feels just right—whether you’re hosting a cookout, enjoying a weeknight dinner, or preparing a potluck favorite. So gather your fresh tomatoes, invite the family, and take pride in serving a dish that’s simple, joyful, and unforgettable.
More Recipes Hungry to Try
If you’re enjoying this Southern tomato cracker classic made with summer tomatoes and saltine crackers, you’ll love exploring more tomato recipes and refreshing dishes that bring bold flavor with minimal effort:
- For another crisp and creamy side, try our creamy cucumber tomato salad. Made with fresh tomatoes, sliced cucumber, green onion, and a tangy dressing, it’s the perfect companion to grilled meats or sandwiches.
- Need a sweet contrast to your savory dishes? Our best fruit dip is smooth, sweet, and ideal for dipping juicy berries or melon after a picnic filled with tomato sandwich vibes.
- Missed something in this post? Revisit our full tomato cracker salad recipe to get tips for adding cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, or a pinch of ground black pepper to enhance every bite.
- Dive into a nostalgic Southern favorite with our old-fashioned Georgia cracker salad. Like a cousin to the Southern tomato cracker salad, this one’s packed with salt and black pepper, boiled eggs, and creamy mayo for rich, down-home flavor.
- For something sweet and sunny, our tropical pineapple bliss cake delivers a fruity finale that complements the simplicity of any savory mixing bowl salad made with summer tomatoes.