When summer arrives and tomatoes are at their sun-ripened peak, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a bowl of Easy Marinated Tomatoes. This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish turns juicy tomato wedges into the ultimate side or snack, capturing the flavors of olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh herbs, and a whisper of garlic. Whether you pile them onto crusty bread or serve them alongside grilled favorites, these marinated tomatoes burst with color, freshness, and the irresistible power to turn every simple meal into something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Easy Marinated Tomatoes is delightfully straightforward, requiring just a handful of wholesome ingredients you probably already have at home. Each one brings something unique—bright acidity, luscious texture, pops of flavor, and a splash of summertime color—to the finished dish.
- Tomatoes: Go for the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find—the natural sweetness is the star of this recipe.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity undertone that helps the marinade cling to every tomato wedge.
- Red wine vinegar: Brings zippy acidity and balances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Garlic: Just two cloves add a sharp, aromatic kick that keeps every bite interesting.
- Fresh basil: Chopped basil enlivens the dish with classic Mediterranean flair; dried basil works in a pinch.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For an added layer of herbaceous brightness that pairs beautifully with tomatoes.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and draws out the tomato juices for a more cohesive salad.
- Black pepper: Grounds the dish with subtle warmth and a hint of earthy spice.
- Sugar (optional): Just a pinch can mellow tartness if your tomatoes are a bit too tangy.
How to Make Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes
Start by cutting your large, ripe tomatoes into inviting wedges. There’s no need to be fussy—chunky wedges hold up beautifully to marinating and show off their juicy centers. Place them in a roomy mixing bowl to give them plenty of space for tossing later.
Step 2: Whisk the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped basil, parsley (if you want a little extra greenery and herbal lift), salt, black pepper, and the pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are on the tart side. Whisk until the mixture looks glossy and slightly emulsified.
Step 3: Marinate the Tomatoes
Pour the zesty marinade right over your tomato wedges. Now, use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss everything together so each piece is well-coated. Take care not to break up the tomatoes too much—you want them to maintain their plump shape while soaking up the vinaigrette.
Step 4: Let the Flavors Mingle
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a plate and let the tomatoes marinate. At room temperature, 30 minutes is long enough for the magic to happen, but for a slightly firmer, cooler salad, slide the bowl into the fridge for up to 2 hours. Give everything a gentle stir once or twice to redistribute the flavorful juices.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Right before serving, give your Easy Marinated Tomatoes one last gentle toss. If your tomatoes have released a lot of liquid, you can lightly strain them or simply use a slotted spoon to serve, ensuring every plate gets plenty of punchy marinade and juicy tomatoes.
How to Serve Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Garnishes
Don’t be shy with garnishes—scatter a few extra torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before serving for vibrant flavor and that wow-factor finish. For extra flair, toss on crumbled feta or delicate shavings of parmesan if you’re feeling a little decadent!
Side Dishes
Easy Marinated Tomatoes pair like a dream with just about any summer spread. You’ll love them alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a platter of antipasto. They’re also delightful spooned over rice, nestled next to roasted potatoes, or as the hero of a simple picnic lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl—spoon your marinated tomatoes onto toasted baguette slices for a bruschetta appetizer, mix them with warm pasta for a light main, or toss them with crisp greens for an instant salad. They also shine as an unexpected topping on avocado toast or tucked into wraps for lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, pop them into an airtight container. These Easy Marinated Tomatoes are best enjoyed within one day, but they’ll keep in the refrigerator up to 2 days before they start to lose their trademark texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this dish; the tomatoes will lose their lovely firmness and the vibrant summer feel that makes Easy Marinated Tomatoes so special. Enjoy them fresh for best results!
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook, no-heat recipe, reheating isn’t necessary. If your tomatoes have gotten too chilled in the fridge, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to bring out the flavors before serving.
FAQs
Can I use cherry or grape tomatoes instead of large tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry or grape tomatoes make a fun, bite-sized version of Easy Marinated Tomatoes. Just halve them before marinating so they soak up all the delicious flavors.
What kind of vinegar can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar, try white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for a sweeter undertone. Each will give the marinade its own unique twist.
Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Definitely! If you only have dried basil or parsley, use about one-third the amount called for fresh. Dried herbs are more potent, so a little goes a long way in Easy Marinated Tomatoes.
Can I add other vegetables to the marinade?
Yes! Red onion slices, thinly shaved fennel, or even some bell pepper strips can be tossed in for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure everything gets coated in that magical marinade.
How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too watery?
If your tomatoes are especially juicy, give them a gentle strain before serving, or use a slotted spoon to serve. This keeps your plate neat and the flavors nice and concentrated.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to fall in love with a dish as simple and satisfying as Easy Marinated Tomatoes. I hope this recipe invites you to celebrate the best of summer produce and enjoy effortless, flavorful eating with friends and family. Give it a try—you’ll be reaching for seconds before you know it!
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Easy Marinated Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (includes marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Easy Marinated Tomatoes are a simple and flavorful dish perfect for summer. Fresh tomatoes are tossed in a tangy dressing with herbs and garlic, creating a refreshing side or topping for salads and bruschetta.
Ingredients
Tomatoes:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Tomatoes: Place the tomato wedges in a large mixing bowl.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and sugar if using.
- Marinate: Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and gently toss to coat evenly. Cover and let marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Serve as a side dish, salad topping, or bruschetta starter.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add thinly sliced red onion or crumbled feta to the marinade.
- If tomatoes are very juicy, strain slightly before serving to prevent excess liquid.
- Best enjoyed the same day for peak freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
