Easy Marinated Tomatoes Recipe
If you’re searching for a vibrant dish to celebrate the best of summer produce, look no further than Easy Marinated Tomatoes. This recipe is a love letter to juicy tomatoes at their peak: marinated in a garlicky, herby vinaigrette that not only enhances their natural flavor but also turns them into an irresistible side or snack you’ll want to make on repeat all season long. Each bite bursts with Mediterranean flair, glossy olive oil, and pops of fresh basil—and it’s as quick as it is delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Easy Marinated Tomatoes is stunningly simple, yet incredibly thoughtful—every component brings its own spark to the dish. Choose the best, freshest tomatoes you can find for a bold flavor that truly shines, and don’t be afraid to get creative with add-ons like basil and mozzarella.
- Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes are the star—use heirloom or vine-ripened varieties for the ultimate in flavor and sweetness.
- Olive oil: A good-quality extra-virgin olive oil lends richness and a silky texture to the marinade.
- Red wine vinegar: This adds bright acidity and balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the marinade with an irresistible aromatic punch.
- Sugar: Just a teaspoon softens the acidity of the vinaigrette and magnifies the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
- Dried oregano: Earthy and fragrant, oregano grounds the marinade in classic Mediterranean flavors.
- Salt: Fine sea salt draws out the juices and amplifies every fresh ingredient.
- Black pepper: A hint of pepper perks up the flavors with subtle heat.
- Fresh basil (or dried): Fresh basil is a showstopper here, but dried works if needed—either way, it finishes the dish with fresh aroma and verdant color.
- Sliced red onion or mozzarella balls (optional): Extra slices of red onion add sharpness and crunch, while little mozzarella balls bring creamy richness for an elevated finish.
How to Make Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Step 1: Make the Marinade
Begin by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This simple vinaigrette doesn’t just coat each tomato slice; it transforms them, infusing every bite with savory, tangy goodness and just a kiss of sweetness.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Gently fold your sliced or chopped tomatoes into the marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Be tender here—those gorgeous ripe tomatoes deserve a gentle hand! If you’d like an extra layer of flavor and texture, now’s the time to add some thinly sliced red onion or a few creamy mozzarella balls.
Step 3: Marinate
Allow the Easy Marinated Tomatoes to rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or chill in the fridge for up to two hours if you prefer them colder and even more flavorful. This is when the real magic happens: the tomatoes soak up the savory-sweet marinade, marrying all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Just before serving, shower the tomatoes with fresh chopped basil (or sprinkle with dried, if that’s what you have). This is your moment for flair—the vivid green against those jewel-toned tomatoes makes the dish truly irresistible. Serve the salad cold or at room temperature, spooning up plenty of the zippy vinaigrette with each helping.
How to Serve Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra basil, a crack of fresh black pepper, and a drizzle of your best olive oil make the Easy Marinated Tomatoes look and taste restaurant-worthy. Add a few thinly sliced shallots or a handful of toasted pine nuts for a special touch if you’re feeling creative!
Side Dishes
These tomatoes slide right into summer spreads: pile them next to grilled chicken or fish, spoon over creamy polenta, or tuck them into sandwiches. They’re also dreamy alongside a crusty baguette, where you can soak up every last drop of luscious marinade.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Easy Marinated Tomatoes into a lively bruschetta topping, layer them on a platter with burrata, or toss them with hot pasta for a rustic, no-cook sauce. For a party, skewer tomato slices with mozzarella balls and fresh basil leaves for eye-catching, hand-held bites!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stash any leftover Easy Marinated Tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two days—the flavors actually deepen and meld together, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to.
Freezing
While it’s tempting, freezing Easy Marinated Tomatoes is not recommended. Tomatoes tend to lose their firmness and become watery after freezing and thawing, and the marinade may separate. Enjoy them fresh for the best possible texture and taste.
Reheating
This dish really sings best cold or at room temperature—no reheating necessary! If they’ve been in the fridge, simply let the tomatoes sit out for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off and bring the flavors to life.
FAQs
What type Side Dish
Go for ripe heirloom, vine-ripened, or any flavorful local tomatoes. The juicier and sweeter, the better! Avoid those pale, off-season tomatoes if you can—they just won’t deliver the same magic.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for this recipe?
Definitely! Dried oregano works wonderfully in the marinade, and if you don’t have fresh basil, simply use dried (about 1 teaspoon). The dish will still be fragrant and delicious.
How long do the tomatoes need to marinate?
At least 30 minutes gives the tomatoes plenty of time to soak up the flavors. For even bigger flavor, pop them in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Any longer and the tomatoes may soften too much, but leftover marinated tomatoes are still fantastic the next day.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Absolutely! Easy Marinated Tomatoes are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them perfect for a crowd of mixed dietary needs.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
You sure can. This recipe scales up easily—just use a wide, shallow serving dish or platter so the tomatoes have plenty of room to soak in that luscious marinade. Guests will gobble them up!
Final Thoughts
Give Easy Marinated Tomatoes a try next time you spot juicy tomatoes at the market—they’re proof that simple ingredients can lead to something extraordinary. You’ll fall in love with their vibrant color and sun-kissed flavor, and they’re sure to become a summer favorite at your table.
Print
Easy Marinated Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
These Easy Marinated Tomatoes are a refreshing and flavorful summer side dish or salad topping. Juicy tomatoes are marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs for a simple and delicious dish.
Ingredients
Tomatoes:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced or chopped
Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Optional:
- sliced red onion or mozzarella balls for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate Tomatoes: Add tomatoes to the bowl and toss gently to coat. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally with red onion or mozzarella.
Notes
- Use heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Recipe is versatile as a side dish, salad topping, or served over crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
