This 5-ingredient + 10 minute Marinated Tomato Recipe is the best way to turn your humble tomatoes into a 5-star salad or side-dish! Featuring plump, juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic and fresh herbs steeped in a tangy vinaigrette! This quick, no-cook tomato recipe is sure to become a spring and summer staple!Recipe can be scaled up or down by using the slider if you hover your mouse over the number of Servings.
1poundCherry or Grape Tomatoes – halved or quartered, depending upon size (SEE NOTES)
2large Shallot – finely chopped (about 1/3 cup)
1-2TBSFinely Chopped Fresh Herbs- basil, flat-leaf parsley, or combination!
Instructions
Mix marinade: In a glass measure or small mixing bowl, combine the garlic, oil, both vinegars, lemon juice and Italian seasoning. Season with ¼ teaspoon salt and a generous pinch of freshly-ground black pepper. Whisk to thoroughly combine and emulsify. Set aside.
Combine veggies + herbs: Place the tomatoes, shallots, and fresh herbs in a large, shallow mixing bowl.
Add marinade: Pour the marinade over the tomato mixture. Toss gently to thoroughly coat all the tomatoes in the Italian marinade. Arrange tomatoes so they are fully submerged in the liquid.
Marinate (optional but recommended!): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let sit on the kitchen counter at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, preferably at least 1-2 hours, giving the tomatoes a stir once or twice. To marinate the tomatoes for longer than 2 hours, store in the refrigerator!
Adjust to taste: If the tomatoes taste like they are missing something, add a pinch of flaky salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice! If the tomato salad tastes dull, add more herbs and a pinch of salt! If the tomatoes are too acidic, add a bit more sweet balsamic vinegar or a generous pinch of sugar, agave, or honey. (Tip: Whether you need to add an acid, salt, sweetner, or more herbs will depend upon the variety and freshness of your tomatoes. It's very important you adjust the recipe to make the most out of YOUR tomatoes.)
Serve: Enjoy marinated tomatoes as a light summer salad, salad topper or side dish!
Notes
Tomatoes: You can use any variety of tomatoes you love! Fresh heirlooms are delicious in this recipe if they are in season!
Variations:
Add mozzarella pearls for marinated caprese salad!
Add English cucumber and sliced onions for a fresh tomato salad!
Add large crispy shards of salty bacon and serve over butter lettuce leaves for a delicious twist on the BLT!
Flavor boost: Add a splash of bloody Mary mix or V8 juice!
Serving suggestions:
Spooned over focaccia or softly toasted baguette as an easy Italian appetizer.
Make bruschetta - don’t forget the balsamic!
Use the tomatoes as a flavorful salad topper!
Try it over grains, such as orzo or quinoa!
Serve as a side dish with fish, chicken, or sizzling steaks hot off the grill!
Stir tomatoes into your favorite cooked and cooled pasta salad!
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Bring them back to room temperature before serving for best results.
Yield: Recipe yield approximately 3 cups.
Nutritional information is an estimate based upon 3 cups (1/2 cup per serving). Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.