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Zesty marinated tomatoes are my year-round secret for adding brightness and punch to the table. This simple yet bold dish lets juicy tomatoes soak up a lively marinade so each bite pops with herby tang. Whether you serve it as a side or spoon it over grilled chicken at your next barbecue these marinated tomatoes channel summer’s ripest flavors any time.
I discovered this recipe on a hot day when the garden was overflowing with tomatoes. After one taste my family started asking for it with everything from toasted bread to steak.
Ingredients
- Fresh tomatoes: ripe and fragrant tomatoes are key for the best flavor look for deeply colored and slightly soft fruits
- Extra virgin olive oil: gives richness and helps carry all the marinated flavors choose a fruity high-quality oil
- Aged balsamic vinegar: adds tangy complexity opt for a syrupy good-quality one if you can
- Fresh basil leaves: infuses the tomatoes with summer scent pick leaves that are bright green and not wilted
- Garlic cloves: minced garlic adds punchy depth make sure to use fresh for the best effect
- Sea salt: brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes try flaky sea salt for a burst of flavor
- Freshly cracked black pepper: delivers just enough gentle heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash and Chop Tomatoes:
- Cut tomatoes into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife for clean cuts that keep juices in the bowl
- Mix the Marinade:
- In a large bowl combine olive oil balsamic vinegar minced garlic sea salt and cracked black pepper. Whisk vigorously for a full minute until the marinade thickens and the oil and vinegar come together into a shiny emulsion
- Toss Tomatoes and Basil:
- Add the chopped tomatoes and fresh basil into the bowl with the marinade. With clean hands or a large spoon gently toss everything until each piece of tomato is coated completely
- Marinate and Chill:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer your tomato mixture to an airtight container. Set in the fridge for at least one hour allowing the tomatoes to soak up all the zesty goodness and develop even more flavor
- Serve and Enjoy:
- To serve arrange the tomatoes and their juices on a platter or spoon into small dishes. Drizzle any leftover marinade from the bottom of the bowl on top for maximum flavor
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Fresh basil is always my favorite part of this dish. Chopping it fills the kitchen with a summery perfume that never fails to remind me of childhood days helping my mom in the garden and tasting tomatoes still warm from the sun.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Marinated tomatoes keep well for up to two days though the flavors deepen by day two. If they release a lot of juice just give everything a gentle toss before serving again.
Easy Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have fresh basil try a sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano. No balsamic vinegar on hand apple cider vinegar makes a nice tangy swap. For a more robust flavor add in a little chopped shallot.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon the tomatoes over grilled chicken or fish for extra lift. Pile them onto warm toasted sourdough or serve alongside creamy burrata cheese for a light lunch. They also make a vibrant topping for grain bowls or salads.
A Bit of History
Marinated tomato salads have roots across the Mediterranean and every region adds its own twist. Growing up it was a go-to in my family’s Italian-inspired meals making fresh produce the star of the show.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry or grape tomatoes work beautifully, bringing a sweeter bite and vibrant presentation to the dish.
- → How long should the tomatoes marinate for best flavor?
It's best to let the tomatoes marinate for at least one hour in the refrigerator, but even longer will deepen the flavors.
- → Can other herbs be used instead of basil?
Yes, try substituting or adding parsley, oregano, or chives to personalize the flavor according to your taste.
- → Is it necessary to peel the tomatoes?
No, there's no need to peel the tomatoes. The skins add texture and hold their shape after marinating.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Enjoy within two days for optimal freshness.