Description
A simple yet flavorful Marinated Tomatoes Salad recipe featuring ripe tomatoes marinated in olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes (a mix of heirlooms and cherry tomatoes is lovely)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little warmth)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional, for a bit of bite)
Instructions
- 1. Wash and dry the tomatoes. If using larger tomatoes, cut them into wedges or cubes about 1 inch in size. If using cherry or grape tomatoes, you can halve them or leave them whole depending on their size.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, thinly sliced or minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- 3. Season the marinade generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember that tomatoes will absorb a good amount of salt, so don’t be afraid to be a little robust here.
- 4. Add the prepared tomatoes to the bowl with the marinade. If you’re using red onion, add it now as well. Gently toss to coat all the tomatoes evenly.
- 5. Cover the bowl and let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. For the most intense flavor, I often let it sit on the counter for an hour, giving it a gentle stir occasionally.
- 6. Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and thinly sliced fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Flavors will meld, but texture will soften. This salad is not meant to be reheated. Stir before serving again. Best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: approx. 150-200 (will vary based on exact olive oil/vinegar ratio)
- Sugar: approx. 3-5g
- Sodium: approx. 100-200mg (will vary based on added salt)
- Fat: approx. 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: approx. 5-8g
- Fiber: approx. 1-2g
- Protein: approx. 1g