Summer produce deserves the spotlight, and few dishes showcase it as beautifully as a simple tomato salad. This recipe celebrates ripe, juicy tomatoes and creamy Bulgarian feta, tied together with a drizzle of good olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and effortless, the kind of side dish that brightens a picnic table or pairs perfectly with grilled meats on a warm evening.

Fresh tomato salad topped with crumbled feta cheese, parsley, and olive oil, served outdoors in natural sunlight. — A refreshing Mediterranean tomato salad made with juicy tomatoes, creamy feta, fresh parsley, and olive oil.

What type of tomatoes can I use for this salad?

Heirloom tomatoes are known for their rich flavors, unique shapes, and stunning colors—deep reds, golden yellows, and even purples and greens. Unlike mass-produced varieties, heirlooms are grown from seeds passed down through generations, which means their taste is far more complex and sweet. If heirlooms aren’t available, beefsteak or vine-ripened tomatoes make an excellent substitute; just look for firm, fragrant fruit that feels heavy for its size. Cutting them into chunky wedges keeps their juices locked in and makes for a hearty salad. I want to reiterate that firm tomatoes are key for this recipe. The firmer the better.

Colorful assortment of heirloom tomatoes in shades of red, yellow, orange, green, and purple displayed together. — A vibrant assortment of heirloom tomatoes in a variety of colors, shapes, and flavors, perfect for fresh Mediterranean recipes.

What is Bulgarian Feta?

Bulgarian feta is a brined cheese made primarily from sheep’s milk. It has a creamier texture and a slightly tangier, richer texture compared to Greek feta, which makes it especially luscious in salads. Rather than crumbling it, cutting Bulgarian feta into bite-sized chunks gives the salad beautiful texture and ensures every forkful has a satisfying, creamy bite. If you can’t find Bulgarian feta, a good quality Greek or French feta will work well. In my opinion, Bulgarian feta has a creamier, milder flavor and isn’t as pungent as some other types of feta. I consider it more on the “creamier” side than “crumbly” side, such as Greek feta.

Container of Bulgarian-style feta cheese made from sheep and cow's milk, commonly used in Mediterranean and Balkan recipes. — Bulgarian-style feta cheese is creamy, tangy, and perfect for salads, pastries, and traditional Mediterranean dishes.

Why you’ll love this Easy Tomato Salad…

Juicy, sweet tomatoes and creamy Bulgarian feta are an irresistible flavor pairing.
Quick and easy: ready in just minutes with minimal prep time.
Vibrant colors and fresh herbs make any table feel cheerful and inviting.
Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or weeknight dinners.
Foolproof and flexible
It’s a refreshing salad: you can cool off by eating something healthy and fresh!

Simple & Easy Summer Tomato Salad

Emilia

A refreshing and colorful salad perfect for summer. Sweet, juicy tomatoes pair beautifully with creamy Bulgarian feta, fresh parsley, and a simple dressing of good olive oil and vinegar. It’s quick, vibrant, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine bulgarian, Mediterranean

Servings 4 portions

Ingredients

5-6 heirloom tomatoes substitute beefsteak tomatoes (like I did)
6-8 oz Bulgarian Feta cut into bite-sized cubes
2-3 tbsp good olive oil
1-2 tbsp white vinegar
chopped Italian Parsley for garnish
salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Rinse and pat dry the tomatoes. Cut each large tomato into quarters or chunky wedges (about 6 pieces per tomato) so they hold their shape.
Place the tomato wedges in a large serving bowl. Add the chunks of Bulgarian feta and scatter the chopped parsley on top.
Drizzle the olive oil and vinegar evenly over the salad. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Toss just until everything is lightly coated, taking care not to break up the feta.
Enjoy at room temperature for the freshest flavor.