Easy Marinated Tomatoes Recipe
If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that practically screams summer, look no further than these Easy Marinated Tomatoes. This recipe takes just minutes to pull together but delivers a punch of juicy, herby goodness that’s perfect for everything from backyard barbecues to lazy lunches. Each bite bursts with the tang of red wine vinegar, the mellow richness of olive oil, and the aromatic lift of fresh herbs. Whether you serve them as a show-stopping side or piled high on toasted bread, Easy Marinated Tomatoes turn simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about Easy Marinated Tomatoes is how the magic comes from just a handful of everyday ingredients. Each one has a role to play, from adding juicy texture to giving a bright, savory kick. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a little tip for each to help you get the most flavor out of every bite:
- Tomatoes: Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes—heirloom, Roma, or even cherry tomatoes for a colorful twist!
- Olive Oil: Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and silky texture.
- Red Wine Vinegar: This adds a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the marinade a wonderful aromatic depth—don’t skip it!
- Sugar: Just a teaspoon helps round out the acidity and brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Dried Oregano: Dried oregano infuses the mixture with classic Mediterranean notes.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out the juices and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Black Pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and a little kick to the marinade.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional): For a burst of color and freshness, sprinkle with chopped herbs before serving.
How to Make Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade looks cohesive. The aroma alone will have you dreaming of Mediterranean summers!
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes
Now, gently add your sliced or chopped tomatoes to the bowl. Whether you’re using big, juicy heirlooms or a mix of colorful cherry tomatoes, make sure they’re evenly coated in that flavorful marinade. Give them a careful toss with a spoon or your hands—whatever feels right!
Step 3: Marinate
Cover the bowl and let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you prefer to make them ahead, you can pop the bowl in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. This gives the tomatoes time to soak up all those wonderful flavors and release their juices, creating a delicious dressing in the process.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
Just before serving, give your Easy Marinated Tomatoes a gentle stir to redistribute the marinade. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top. Serve them straight from the bowl or transfer to a platter for a gorgeous presentation!
How to Serve Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Garnishes
A generous handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley on top not only adds a pop of color but also brings an extra layer of herbal freshness to your Easy Marinated Tomatoes. A pinch of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of really good olive oil can take this dish right over the top.
Side Dishes
These tomatoes are a natural sidekick to almost any grilled protein—think chicken, fish, or tofu. They’re also fantastic spooned over a simple green salad or as a juicy addition to a Mediterranean mezze spread. Don’t forget a hunk of crusty bread to mop up those delicious juices!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Easy Marinated Tomatoes over toasted baguette slices for a quick bruschetta, or layer them on top of creamy ricotta for a swoon-worthy appetizer. For a fresh twist, toss them with cooked pasta or pile them onto grain bowls for a burst of bright flavor and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), simply cover the bowl tightly and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as they sit, making for an even more delicious snack the next day. Just be sure to enjoy within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
While Easy Marinated Tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them if you need to. Keep in mind that the texture will change—frozen and thawed tomatoes tend to soften quite a bit, so they’re best used in cooked dishes like sauces or soups rather than salads.
Reheating
Since this recipe is a no-cook wonder, there’s really no need to reheat. If you’ve chilled your tomatoes and want to bring them back to room temperature, just let them sit out for about 15 minutes before serving for the fullest flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! While I love big, juicy beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes for their flavor and color, cherry or grape tomatoes work beautifully too. Just cut them in half and follow the recipe as written for a burst of sweetness in every bite.
What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, try using white wine vinegar or even a splash of balsamic for a deeper, slightly sweeter flavor. Lemon juice is another fresh, zesty option that brightens up the tomatoes.
How far ahead can I make Easy Marinated Tomatoes?
You can marinate the tomatoes up to 2 hours ahead for the freshest taste. If you need to prep further in advance, assemble the marinade and slice the tomatoes, but keep them separate until closer to serving time for best texture.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! Easy Marinated Tomatoes are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them a perfect fit for a wide variety of diets and gatherings. Just double check any accompaniments if you’re serving alongside bread or crackers.
How do I keep the tomatoes from getting mushy?
The key is to use ripe but firm tomatoes and not marinate them for too long. If you’re prepping ahead, wait to add the tomatoes to the marinade until closer to serving time, and use a gentle hand when tossing them together.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to add a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your next meal, these Easy Marinated Tomatoes are calling your name. They’re simple, endlessly adaptable, and always the first thing to disappear at the table. I hope you love them as much as I do!
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Easy Marinated Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make Mediterranean side dish featuring ripe tomatoes marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Perfect as a salad topper, side dish, or served over toasted bread for a light summer treat.
Ingredients
Tomatoes
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes (sliced or chopped)
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create the flavorful marinade.
- Add the tomatoes: Place the sliced or chopped tomatoes into the bowl with the marinade and gently toss to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the mixture.
- Marinate the tomatoes: Cover the bowl and let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. Alternatively, refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a cooler dish with more intense flavor.
- Serve and garnish: Before serving, stir the tomatoes gently once more. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a burst of herbal freshness if desired.
Notes
- This dish works wonderfully as a side or as a fresh topping for salads and grilled dishes.
- Try using heirloom or cherry tomatoes for added color and a richer flavor profile.
- Can be served over toasted rustic bread to make a light appetizer or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
