Marinated Tomatoes Recipe

Introduction

Marinated tomatoes are a simple and flavorful way to enjoy ripe tomatoes at their best. This easy recipe combines fresh herbs, garlic, and a tangy balsamic dressing to create a versatile dish perfect as a side, salad topping, or bruschetta base.

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe tomatoes
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Select large, ripe tomatoes that are firm yet slightly soft. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
2. Step 2: Slice the tomatoes into wedges, rounds, or cubes, ensuring uniform sizes for even marination.
3. Step 3: Place the sliced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
5. Step 5: Add sea salt and black pepper to the mixture.
6. Step 6: Stir in minced garlic, followed by chopped fresh basil and parsley (or dried herbs).
7. Step 7: If desired, add red pepper flakes for heat.
8. Step 8: Whisk the marinade until well combined.
9. Step 9: Pour the marinade over the sliced tomatoes and gently toss to coat.
10. Step 10: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable plastic bag, removing excess air.
11. Step 11: Let marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
12. Step 12: After marinating, gently toss the tomatoes again to redistribute the marinade.
13. Step 13: Serve in a beautiful dish, optionally drizzling leftover marinade over the top.
14. Step 14: Enjoy as a side dish, topping for grilled meats, bruschetta, or in salads.
15. Step 15: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of tomato varieties like cherry or heirloom for added color and flavor.
• For a lighter version, substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar.
• Add thinly sliced red onions or olives to boost flavor and texture.
• If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs work well—just use less to avoid overpowering the dish.

Storage

Store marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving leftovers, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavors and soften the chill from refrigeration.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use this marinade for other vegetables?

Yes, this marinade works well with vegetables like cucumbers, zucchini, or bell peppers. Simply adjust marinating time based on the vegetable’s texture.

Is it safe to marinate tomatoes at room temperature?

Yes, marinating tomatoes at room temperature for up to 2 hours is safe and helps the flavors develop. For longer storage, refrigerate promptly.

Marinated Tomatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 119 reviews

This Marinated Tomatoes recipe features ripe tomatoes infused with a flavorful mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or a vibrant topping for grilled meats, bruschetta, and salads. The quick marination enhances the natural sweetness and zest of the tomatoes, making it an easy yet elegant addition to any meal.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Tomatoes

• 4 large ripe tomatoes

Marinade

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Select Tomatoes: Choose large, ripe tomatoes that are firm yet slightly soft. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel to prepare for slicing.
2. Slice Tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into wedges, rounds, or cubes, making sure to keep the pieces uniform in size for consistent marination.
3. Prepare Tomatoes: Place the sliced tomatoes in a large mixing bowl to hold them while you make the marinade.
4. Combine Liquid Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar as the base for your marinade.
5. Add Seasonings: Season the mixture with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to bring out the flavors.
6. Incorporate Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, then add chopped fresh basil and parsley, or use dried herbs if preferred.
7. Add Heat (Optional): If you like a bit of spice, add the red pepper flakes to the marinade for a gentle kick.
8. Whisk Marinade: Whisk all marinade ingredients together until well combined to ensure even distribution of flavors.
9. Marinate Tomatoes: Pour the marinade over the sliced tomatoes and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly with the flavorful mixture.
10. Cover and Rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the tomatoes and marinade to a resealable plastic bag, carefully removing excess air to seal.
11. Marinate Time: Let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper infusion of flavors.
12. Toss Again: After marinating, gently toss the tomatoes once more to redistribute the marinade evenly.
13. Serve: Transfer the marinated tomatoes to a beautiful serving dish, optionally drizzling leftover marinade on top for extra flavor.
14. Usage Suggestions: Enjoy as a fresh side dish, a flavorful topping for grilled meats, bruschetta, or include them in salads for a vibrant taste.
15. Store Leftovers: Any leftover marinated tomatoes should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving again to bring out their flavors.

Notes

• Use ripe but firm tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust marination time depending on how strong you want the flavors; longer marination intensifies taste.
• Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted or adjusted according to your spice preference.
• For a fresher herb flavor, use fresh basil and parsley; dried herbs work well but are less vibrant.
• This dish can be served immediately after marinating but tastes best after at least 30 minutes.
• Always store leftovers refrigerated to keep the tomatoes fresh and flavorful.

Keywords: marinated tomatoes, tomato salad, Mediterranean side dish, easy tomato recipe, balsamic vinegar marinade, fresh herbs, no cook recipe