Marinated Tomatoes

Marinated tomatoes are a vibrant and flavorful side dish that enhances any meal. With their juicy, fresh taste, they make a perfect complement to grilled meats, sandwiches, or salads. This easy recipe highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes by marinating them in olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. Enjoy marinated tomatoes at your next BBQ, picnic, or family dinner for a delightful burst of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Pairing: Marinated tomatoes pair well with various dishes, whether you’re serving grilled chicken, fish, or even a vegetarian platter.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using ripe tomatoes and herbs ensures a bright and refreshing flavor that elevates every bite.
• Make Ahead: Prepare this dish in advance! Marinate the tomatoes for up to two days to develop an even richer taste.
• Healthy Option: With low calories and healthy fats from olive oil, this side is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make marinated tomatoes successfully, you’ll need a few simple tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large plate
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large plate: Ideal for arranging sliced tomatoes beautifully for serving.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the marinade ingredients effectively.
• Whisk: Ensures that all marinade components blend together seamlessly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Tomatoes

• 1 pound ripe tomato
• ½ red onion
• 1 garlic clove

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar (balsamic vinegar will also work)
• ½ lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
• Sea salt to taste
• Freshly ground pepper

How to Make Marinated Tomatoes

Step 1: Select Fresh Tomatoes

Start with the freshest juiciest tomatoes. Tomatoes from the farmer’s market or your garden are best. You can use any ripe tomato like cherry, beefsteak, heirloom, or roma varieties.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

• For cherry tomatoes, cut them into halves or quarters.
• Slice heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes into 1/3 inch thick slices.

Arrange all sliced tomatoes on a large plate.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar, and ½ lemon juice.
2. Add finely diced ½ red onion and minced 1 garlic clove.
3. Stir in chopped 1 teaspoon fresh basil, 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, sea salt, and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
4. Whisk everything thoroughly until well blended.

Step 4: Marinate the Tomatoes

Pour the marinade over the arranged sliced tomatoes:
– Spread it evenly across all slices.

Cover and let the tomatoes marinate for at least 2 hours before serving:
– Toss occasionally to ensure an even soak.
– Refrigerate for up to 2 days for maximum tenderness—though best consumed within 8 hours.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your marinated tomatoes alongside your favorite meal. The leftover marinade can be reused in soups or stews or drizzled over salads as dressing for added flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Marinated Tomatoes

Marinated tomatoes are a versatile dish that can complement various meals. The bright flavors make them an excellent addition to many dishes, enhancing both taste and presentation.

As a Standalone Salad

• Enjoy marinated tomatoes on their own as a refreshing salad. The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten up any meal.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair marinated tomatoes with grilled chicken or turkey for a delicious contrast. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the meat.

In Sandwiches or Wraps

• Add marinated tomatoes to sandwiches or wraps for an extra burst of flavor. They work especially well with grilled vegetables and spreads.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include marinated tomatoes on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and nuts. This creates an appealing visual display and offers guests various flavors.

Tossed in Pasta

• Mix marinated tomatoes into pasta dishes for added freshness. They can be used cold or warm, depending on your preference.

As a Topping for Bruschetta

• Use marinated tomatoes as a topping for bruschetta. Simply spoon them onto toasted bread slices for a quick appetizer.

How to Perfect Marinated Tomatoes

To create the best marinated tomatoes, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose the right tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes from local markets or your garden for maximum flavor.

• Let them marinate: Allow at least 2 hours for the flavors to meld, but overnight is even better for more intense taste.

• Use fresh herbs: Incorporate fresh basil and parsley instead of dried herbs to enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Balance acidity: Adjust the vinegar and lemon juice according to your taste preference; this will affect the overall tanginess of the dish.

• Don’t skimp on seasoning: Sea salt and freshly ground pepper elevate the dish—taste as you go!

• Experiment with variations: Try adding ingredients like capers or olives for additional layers of flavor in your marinade.

Best Side Dishes for Marinated Tomatoes

Marinated tomatoes pair beautifully with various side dishes, making them easy to incorporate into any meal plan. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables
   Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement marinated tomatoes well while adding depth to your meal.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with herbs and lemon pairs nicely with marinated tomatoes, creating a hearty dish.

3. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes provide a satisfying texture that balances out the softness of marinated tomatoes.

4. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent vessel for enjoying leftover marinade from the tomatoes.

5. Couscous with Herbs
   Lightly seasoned couscous tossed with fresh herbs creates a delightful base that highlights the flavors of marinated tomatoes.

6. Greek Salad
   A classic Greek salad featuring cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese complements the freshness of marinated tomatoes wonderfully.

7. Hummus Platter
   Serve marinated tomatoes alongside hummus and pita chips for a delightful appetizer spread.

8. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf infused with spices provides a mild backdrop that allows marinated tomatoes to shine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing marinated tomatoes, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to be aware of:

• Bold Tomatoes: Using under-ripe or overripe tomatoes can ruin the flavor. Always choose fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best taste.
• Bold Skipping the Marinade Time: Not marinating long enough diminishes the flavor. Aim for at least 2 hours, but let them sit longer if possible for a deeper taste.
• Bold Overloading on Salt: Adding too much salt can overpower the dish. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste after marinating.
• Bold Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs lack the vibrant flavor of fresh ones. Use fresh basil and parsley for maximum impact in your marinade.
• Bold Neglecting to Toss: Failing to flip the tomatoes during marination leads to uneven flavor distribution. Remember to toss them occasionally for even marination.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store marinated tomatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure excess marinade is included for added flavor retention.

Freezing Marinated Tomatoes

• Freezing is not recommended as it can alter texture.
• If you must freeze, consider only freezing the marinade separately.
• Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating Marinated Tomatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tomatoes on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté gently over low heat in a non-stick pan until just heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Marinated Tomatoes?

Marinated tomatoes are fresh tomatoes soaked in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, enhancing their natural flavor and making them a delicious side dish.

How Long Should I Marinate Tomatoes?

For optimal flavor, let your marinated tomatoes sit for at least 2 hours. However, they can marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?

Absolutely! Heirloom, cherry, beefsteak, or roma tomatoes all work well. Choose what’s freshest for the best results.

How Do I Customize My Marinated Tomatoes?

Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add ingredients like olives or feta cheese for unique flavors that suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Marinated tomatoes are a versatile side that pairs beautifully with many dishes. Their bright flavors and refreshing essence make them perfect for summer BBQs or cozy dinners alike. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables!

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Marinated Tomatoes

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Experience the burst of flavor that marinated tomatoes bring to your meals with this simple and delightful recipe. Perfect for adding a fresh twist to grilled meats, sandwiches, or salads, these vibrant tomatoes are marinated in a blend of olive oil, vinegar, and aromatic herbs. With just a few minutes of preparation, you can create a delicious side dish that enhances any dining experience. Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or family dinners, marinated tomatoes are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition, making them a healthy choice that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ripe tomatoes
• ½ red onion
• 1 garlic clove
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
• ½ lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
• Sea salt to taste
• Freshly ground pepper

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Instructions

1. Choose fresh, juicy tomatoes from your local market.
2. Prepare the tomatoes by slicing them into halves or quarters.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, lemon juice, diced red onion, minced garlic, basil, parsley, sea salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the marinade over the sliced tomatoes and cover them. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Marinating
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately ½ cup (120g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg