Name: Marinated Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ripe tomatoes; ½ white onion; ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 clove garlic; 1 tsp Fresh Parsley; 1 tsp fresh basil; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper

Experience the fresh and robust flavors of marinated tomatoes with this simple yet delightful recipe. Perfect for summer salads or as a savory side dish, these marinated tomatoes are infused with aromatic herbs and a tangy dressing that highlight the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes.

Photos of Marinated Tomatoes Recipe

If you don't commonly keep red wine vinegar or fresh basil in your pantry, these are essential for this recipe. Make sure to check your local supermarket for these items to ensure you get the authentic and vibrant flavors intended.

Ingredients for Marinated Tomatoes Recipe

Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the star of this dish, providing juicy and sweet flavors.

White onion: Adds a mild, slightly sweet crunch that complements the tomatoes.

Olive oil: Used to create a rich and smooth marinade that binds the flavors together.

Red wine vinegar: Provides a tangy and slightly fruity acidity to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic depth to the marinade.

Fresh parsley: Offers a bright and slightly peppery flavor, enhancing the overall freshness.

Fresh basil: Imparts a sweet and slightly peppery taste, essential for an authentic Mediterranean touch.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and earthy flavor to the dish.

One reader, Genna Gipson says:

This marinated tomatoes recipe is a game-changer! The flavors meld beautifully, and the fresh herbs add a delightful touch. Perfect for a summer side dish or a light snack. Highly recommend!

Genna Gipson

Techniques for Perfect Marinated Tomatoes

How to wash tomatoes: Rinse the tomatoes under cool running water, gently rubbing them to remove any dirt or residue. How to slice tomatoes: Use a sharp knife to cut the tomatoes into ¼-inch thick slices. How to whisk ingredients: Combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper in a bowl and whisk until well blended. How to marinate: Place the tomato slices in a shallow bowl or a freezer bag, pour the whisked mixture over them, and ensure they are evenly coated. Marinate for about 2 hours or up to 2 days, turning occasionally. How to discard garlic: Before serving, remove the garlic clove from the marinated tomatoes.

How To Make Marinated Tomatoes

The zesty vinaigrette dressing brings out the delicious summer flavors in the marinated tomatoes that are a great add-on for salads, sandwiches, or burgers.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Marinate Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbripe tomatoes
½white onion,sliced
¼cupolive oil
2tbspred wine vinegar
1clovegarlic,sliced
1tspfresh parsley
1tspfresh basil
½tspsalt,or to taste
½tspblack pepper

Instructions

Wash tomatoes and slice ¼-inch thick.
Whisk remaining ingredients and pour over tomatoes in a shallow bowl or a freezer bag.
Marinate for about 2 hours or up to 2 days turning occasionally. Discard garlic before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 149.59kcal
Fat: 13.76g
Saturated Fat: 1.91g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.89g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.52g
Carbohydrates: 6.39g
Fiber: 1.75g
Sugar: 3.66g
Protein: 1.27g
Sodium: 298.23mg
Calcium: 19.31mg
Potassium: 304.59mg
Iron: 0.52mg
Vitamin A: 49.37µg
Vitamin C: 17.40mg

Pro Tip for Marinating Tomatoes

To enhance the flavor of the marinated tomatoes, consider using a mix of different tomato varieties such as heirloom, cherry, and grape tomatoes. This will add a range of textures and flavors to the dish. Additionally, lightly scoring the skin of the tomatoes before marinating can help the marinade penetrate more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful outcome.

Time-Saving Tips for Marinated Tomatoes Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the tomatoes and onion ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use a food processor: Mince the garlic and herbs quickly using a food processor.

Batch marinate: Double or triple the marinade recipe and store it in the fridge for future use.

Quick whisking: Use an immersion blender to mix the olive oil and red wine vinegar quickly.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out the salt and black pepper in advance to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Marinated Tomatoes Recipe

ripe tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweeter and can add a different texture to the dish.
white onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onions have a milder flavor and add a pop of color.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a neutral flavor.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other ingredients.
fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, citrusy flavor that can add a different dimension to the dish.
fresh basil - Substitute with oregano: Oregano has a robust, earthy flavor that can stand in for basil.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor along with the saltiness.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different heat profile and can be used similarly.

Presentation Ideas for Marinated Tomatoes

Select heirloom tomatoes: Choose a variety of ripe tomatoes in different colors and shapes to add visual appeal and complexity to the dish.
Slice uniformly: Cut the tomatoes into precise ¼-inch thick slices to ensure even marination and a professional presentation.
Use a mandoline for onions: Slice the white onion thinly using a mandoline for consistent, paper-thin slices that will blend seamlessly with the tomatoes.
Create a balanced marinade: Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, finely chopped fresh parsley, and fresh basil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Marinate in a shallow dish: Arrange the tomato and onion slices in a single layer in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring each slice is well-coated.
Turn occasionally: Marinate for about 2 hours or up to 2 days, turning the slices occasionally to ensure even absorption of flavors.
Remove garlic before serving: Discard the garlic clove before plating to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors of the tomatoes and onions.
Plate with finesse: Arrange the marinated tomato and onion slices in a fan or circular pattern on a pristine white plate to highlight their vibrant colors.
Garnish elegantly: Add a sprig of fresh basil or a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley on top for a touch of elegance and a burst of fresh flavor.
Drizzle with extra marinade: Just before serving, lightly drizzle some of the remaining marinade over the plated tomatoes for added flavor and a glossy finish.

Essential Tools for Making Marinated Tomatoes

Knife: For slicing the tomatoes and chopping the garlic, parsley, and basil.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the tomatoes, onion, and herbs.
Mixing bowl: To whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Whisk: For thoroughly mixing the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Shallow bowl: To marinate the tomatoes in the mixture.
Freezer bag: An alternative to the shallow bowl for marinating the tomatoes.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring the olive oil and red wine vinegar.
Measuring spoons: For measuring the salt, pepper, parsley, and basil.
Garlic press: Optional, but useful for mincing the garlic clove.

Storing and Freezing Marinated Tomatoes

Storing in the refrigerator: transfer the marinated tomatoes to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making them even more delicious.
Freezing: while it's not recommended to freeze marinated tomatoes as they can become mushy and lose their texture, you can freeze them for up to 2 months if needed. To freeze, transfer the tomatoes and marinade to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. When ready to use, thaw the tomatoes in the refrigerator overnight and use within 2-3 days.
Serving: before serving, allow the marinated tomatoes to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to enhance their flavor. If desired, you can remove the garlic clove and add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of freshness.
Pro tip: to intensify the flavors even more, let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before refrigerating. This will help the olive oil and vinegar penetrate the tomatoes more effectively.

Interesting Fact About Marinated Tomatoes

A random fact about this marinated tomatoes recipe is that the red wine vinegar not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps to preserve the tomatoes by lowering their pH, which inhibits the growth of bacteria.

Is Making Marinated Tomatoes at Home Cost-Effective?

This marinated tomatoes recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like tomatoes, white onion, and olive oil, the overall cost remains low. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5-$7 USD, making it an affordable yet flavorful addition to any meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and minimal preparation time further enhance its value. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Are Marinated Tomatoes Healthy?

This marinated tomatoes recipe is relatively healthy, as it primarily consists of nutritious ingredients like tomatoes, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant. The olive oil in the marinade provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the red wine vinegar adds a tangy flavor and may help lower blood sugar levels.

However, there are a few aspects of this recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of olive oil to lower the overall calorie and fat content
Use a low-sodium salt or reduce the amount of salt to minimize sodium intake
Add more fresh herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to increase the antioxidant content and flavor profile

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate other colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals
Serve the marinated tomatoes over a bed of leafy greens, like spinach or arugula, to add fiber and create a more substantial salad
Use the marinated tomatoes as a topping for grilled chicken or fish to add flavor and nutrition to lean proteins
Experiment with different vinegars, such as balsamic or apple cider vinegar, to change up the flavor profile and potential health benefits

Editor's Opinion on This Marinated Tomatoes Recipe

This marinated tomatoes recipe is a delightful way to enhance the natural sweetness and acidity of ripe tomatoes. The combination of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant and aromatic marinade. The inclusion of garlic adds a subtle depth of flavor, while the onions provide a nice crunch. Marinating for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but extending it up to 2 days will intensify the taste. This dish is perfect as a refreshing side or a topping for bruschetta. Simple yet sophisticated, it’s a must-try for any tomato lover.

Enhance Your Marinated Tomatoes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Imagine the smoky char of grilled asparagus mingling with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of citrus that perfectly complements the marinated tomatoes.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Picture golden-brown potatoes roasted to perfection, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan. These crispy delights offer a savory contrast to the tangy marinated tomatoes, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Herbed Couscous Salad: Herbed Couscous Salad: Envision a light and fluffy couscous salad adorned with a medley of fresh herbs, diced vegetables, and a hint of lemon juice. This refreshing side dish adds a touch of Mediterranean flair, enhancing the vibrant flavors of the marinated tomatoes.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Picture juicy, sweet melon slices enveloped in delicate, salty prosciutto. This elegant appetizer brings a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making it a sophisticated companion to the marinated tomatoes.

Chilled Cucumber Soup: Chilled Cucumber Soup: Imagine a cool, creamy cucumber soup with a hint of dill and a touch of yogurt. This refreshing and light side dish provides a soothing counterpoint to the bold, tangy notes of the marinated tomatoes, creating a perfect summer pairing.

Similar Recipes to Marinated Tomatoes

Caprese Salad: Caprese Salad is a classic Italian appetizer that showcases the simple yet delicious combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction for an elegant touch.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a delightful appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. It's a perfect way to start any meal with a burst of fresh flavors.

Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes: Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes are bite-sized delights filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices. These little gems are perfect for parties and gatherings.

Tomato Basil Soup: Tomato Basil Soup is a comforting bowl of goodness made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a heartwarming meal.

Greek Salad: Greek Salad is a vibrant mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese. Tossed in a lemon-oregano dressing, it's a refreshing and healthy option.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Marinated Tomatoes

Main Courses:

Grilled Chicken with Marinated Tomatoes: Elevate your grilled chicken by pairing it with these marinated tomatoes. The juicy tomatoes and aromatic herbs will complement the smoky flavor of the chicken perfectly. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal. The marinated tomatoes add a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the chicken, making each bite a delightful experience.

Pasta Primavera with Marinated Tomatoes: Transform your pasta primavera by incorporating these marinated tomatoes. The tangy vinegar and fresh herbs in the marinade will enhance the natural flavors of the seasonal vegetables. Toss the marinated tomatoes with al dente pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a vibrant and satisfying dish. This combination offers a refreshing twist on a classic favorite, perfect for a light yet fulfilling dinner.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Imagine layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers nestled between rich, creamy mascarpone cheese and dusted with a generous amount of cocoa powder. This Italian classic is perfect for those who love a balance of coffee and sweetness. The mascarpone mixture is often enhanced with a hint of rum or coffee liqueur, adding depth to each bite. Serve chilled and let your guests savor the luxurious layers of this delightful treat.

Pavlova: Envision a crisp meringue shell with a marshmallow-like center, topped with a medley of fresh fruits and a dollop of whipped cream. This light and airy dessert is named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova and is a showstopper at any gathering. The meringue base provides a delightful contrast to the juicy fruits, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Perfect for a summer evening, this treat is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why trust this Marinated Tomatoes Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it uses fresh, simple ingredients to enhance the natural flavors of ripe tomatoes. The combination of olive oil and red wine vinegar creates a perfect balance of richness and acidity. Fresh parsley and basil add a burst of herbaceousness, while garlic infuses a subtle depth. Marinating for up to two days allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making this dish both versatile and delicious.

Have you tried this marinated tomatoes recipe? Share your experience and any variations in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the tomatoes?

You can marinate the tomatoes for about 2 hours or up to 2 days. Just remember to turn them occasionally to ensure they soak up all the flavors.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs if you don't have fresh ones. Just keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount.

What type of tomatoes work best for this recipe?

Any ripe tomatoes will work, but I prefer using heirloom or Roma tomatoes because they have great flavor and texture.

Do I need to refrigerate the marinated tomatoes?

Yes, it's best to refrigerate the marinated tomatoes to keep them fresh and safe to eat. Just take them out a bit before serving to let them come to room temperature.

Can I add other vegetables to the marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some olives to the marinade for extra flavor and variety.