Easy Marinated Tomatoes

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Imagine walking into a sun-drenched kitchen, where the air is filled with the aroma of ripe tomatoes marinating in a medley of herbs and spices. The vibrant reds and greens dance before your eyes, promising a burst of flavor that could make even the most skeptical taste buds stand up and applaud. classic spaghetti carbonara Yes, my friend, we are about to embark on a culinary adventure featuring marinated tomatoes that will elevate your meals from ordinary to extraordinary.

Now, let me take you down memory lane. Picture this: a lazy summer afternoon spent in my grandmother’s garden, where she would pluck the juiciest tomatoes straight from the vine. She’d toss them into a bowl with olive oil, garlic, and herbs like she was casting a spell. Mediterranean bean salad The result? A dish so delightful that even my picky cousin Timmy couldn’t resist. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or simply craving something fresh for dinner, marinated tomatoes are here to save the day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Marinated tomatoes bring incredible flavors with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy weeknights
  • Their vibrant appearance adds color to any meal, while their versatility allows you to enjoy them in countless dishes
  • Best of all, they can be prepared ahead of time to enhance any gathering!

I once made marinated tomatoes for a potluck, and let’s just say they vanished faster than the last slice of pizza at a party. Buffalo chicken alfredo penne.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ripe Tomatoes: Choose firm yet juicy varieties like Roma or heirloom for maximum flavor.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the marinade.
  • Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves for an aromatic touch that screams summer.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a sweet tanginess that perfectly balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile; avoid the pre-minced stuff if possible!
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; use sea salt for an extra crunch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Cookies Recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing your tomatoes under cool water; this not only cleans them but also gets your kitchen smelling fresh. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Create the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until combined. Let the aromas mingle like old friends catching up.

Toss It All Together: Gently fold in your chopped tomatoes and fresh basil into the marinade. Watch as they soak up all that glorious goodness, it’s like they’re taking a spa day!

Marinate Time!: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to an airtight container. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this is when magic happens as flavors develop beautifully.

Serve & Enjoy!: After marinating, give everything one final gentle toss before serving it as a side dish or topping. Trust me; your friends will be begging for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

With each step completed, you’ve created not just marinated tomatoes but an experience filled with memories and flavors that resonate long after the last bite is gone!

You Must Know

  • Marinated tomatoes bring a burst of flavor to any dish
  • Their vibrant colors and tangy taste can elevate salads, pasta, or even sandwiches, making them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire
  • Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and spices for unique variations

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make marinated tomatoes, start by slicing them evenly. Mix your marinade ingredients while the tomatoes rest to absorb all those delicious flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out fresh herbs based on what you have. Basil, oregano, or even a sprinkle of feta can add unexpected twists to your marinated tomatoes.

Storing & Reheating

Keep marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. They can be served cold or at room temperature without reheating.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; underripe ones can be disappointing
  • Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor absorption
  • Adjust the acidity level by adding more vinegar or citrus juice if desired

Sharing my first batch of marinated tomatoes was a game-changer! Friends asked for the recipe, and I felt like a kitchen rockstar that day. grilled asparagus recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

What types of tomatoes work best for marinating?

Ripe cherry or heirloom tomatoes provide great flavor and texture for marinating.

How long should I let the tomatoes marinate?

Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to fully absorb the marinade flavors.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Cucumbers or bell peppers also make excellent additions to your marinade mix.

Print
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Marinated Tomatoes


  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Marinated tomatoes are a vibrant and flavorful addition to any meal, transforming ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. With juicy ripe tomatoes soaked in a fragrant mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, and garlic, this recipe is simple yet impressive. Perfect for summer gatherings or a fresh side dish, these marinated tomatoes will delight your taste buds and elevate your dining experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Gently fold in the chopped tomatoes and torn basil until well combined.
  4. Cover the bowl or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
  5. Serve as a side dish or topping after giving it a gentle toss.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Marinating
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
  • Calories: 130
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use ripe cherry or heirloom tomatoes for best flavor. Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles. These marinated tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

Tags:

easy appetizers / flavorful sides / fresh ingredients / herb recipes / marinated tomatoes / summer recipes / tomato dishes / vegetable salads

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