Imagine a dish that captures the very essence of summer. This Marinated Tomato Salad is just that: juicy, ripe tomatoes infused with the earthy flavors of olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and a splash of vinegar. This recipe draws inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, where simple ingredients are elevated through thoughtful seasoning and time. In this case, the magic happens as the tomatoes marinate, soaking up every ounce of flavor from the dressing.
This salad is perfect for everything from casual picnics to elegant dinners, bringing a burst of color and taste to the table. It’s especially wonderful when tomatoes are at their peak, as their natural sweetness and juiciness are highlighted by the marinade. Whether served on its own, alongside grilled meats, or even on toasted bread as a bruschetta topping, this Marinated Tomato Salad is bound to become a summer favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Simple: With minimal chopping and a straightforward marinade, this recipe is ideal for even the busiest days.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The acidity of vinegar balances the richness of olive oil, enhancing the sweetness of the tomatoes. The herbs add an extra layer of freshness, making this a delightful side dish.
- Healthy and Wholesome: This salad is full of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, all packed in a deliciously light package.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinated Tomatoes
- Fresh Tomatoes: 1.5 pounds, sliced (use a variety for color and texture, such as beefsteak, heirloom, cherry, or Roma)
- Red Onion: 1/3 cup, finely sliced or diced (adds a bit of sharpness to balance the tomatoes)
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced (infuses the marinade with subtle warmth)
- Fresh Basil: 2 teaspoons, chopped (adds a sweet, peppery flavor)
- Fresh Parsley: 2 teaspoons, chopped (for a bright, clean taste)
- Fresh Dill: 1 teaspoon, chopped (optional, but adds a lovely tang)
- Olive Oil: 6 tablespoons, extra virgin for the best flavor
- Red Wine Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (balances the oil and enhances the tomato flavor)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, but a generous pinch helps bring out the natural juices in the tomatoes.
How to Make Marinated Tomato Salad:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Tomatoes and Onion
Start by slicing the tomatoes to about 1/3-inch thickness. For cherry tomatoes, simply cut them in halves. Arrange the tomato slices in a shallow dish or a large bowl. Scatter the chopped red onion over the tomatoes. - Create the Flavorful Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add in the freshly chopped basil, parsley, and dill (if using), and whisk again until well combined. The mixture should have a fragrant, herbaceous aroma with a slight tang from the vinegar. - Marinate the Tomatoes
Pour the marinade evenly over the tomatoes and onions. Gently toss everything together to ensure that each tomato slice is well coated with the marinade. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate the salad overnight, allowing the tomatoes to soak up every bit of the marinade. - Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. Transfer it to a serving platter or keep it in the original dish, letting the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and herbs shine. You can serve this Marinated Tomato Salad as a side dish with grilled meats, a refreshing topping for bruschetta, or a light and healthy addition to any meal.
Helpful Tips:
- Tomato Varieties Matter: While any ripe tomatoes work, mixing types like heirlooms, cherry, and plum tomatoes will add color, texture, and depth to the salad.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: This salad tastes best when given a couple of hours to marinate. The vinegar helps to break down the tomatoes slightly, allowing them to absorb the marinade and intensify in flavor.
- Add Cheese for Creaminess: Crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes and herbs, adding creaminess to every bite. Add cheese just before serving for the best texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil, parsley, and dill provide the best flavors, but if you only have dried herbs on hand, use about 1/3 of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2 hours (or overnight for enhanced flavor)
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approximation):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 2g Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this salad tastes better when marinated for a few hours or even overnight. Just cover and refrigerate it until ready to serve.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to add thinly sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even olives for added texture and flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the tomatoes will continue to soften as they marinate, so they may become juicier over time.
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes! Balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, or sherry vinegar all work well in this salad. Each will bring its own unique flavor, so feel free to experiment with your favorite.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this Marinated Tomato Salad, here are a few other light, fresh recipes you’ll love:
Conclusion
This Marinated Tomato Salad is a simple but incredibly flavorful dish that beautifully showcases the season’s best tomatoes. It’s the kind of recipe that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor—perfect for those hot summer days when you crave something fresh and light. The juicy tomatoes absorb the marinade, making each bite a burst of tangy, herby goodness. Whether you’re serving this at a barbecue, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a quick lunch, it’s a salad that adds a touch of summer magic to every meal.
Print
Marinated Tomato Salad Recipe
Description
Imagine a dish that captures the very essence of summer. This Marinated Tomato Salad is just that: juicy, ripe tomatoes infused with the earthy flavors of olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and a splash of vinegar. This recipe draws inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, where simple ingredients are elevated through thoughtful seasoning and time. In this case, the magic happens as the tomatoes marinate, soaking up every ounce of flavor from the dressing.
This salad is perfect for everything from casual picnics to elegant dinners, bringing a burst of color and taste to the table. It’s especially wonderful when tomatoes are at their peak, as their natural sweetness and juiciness are highlighted by the marinade. Whether served on its own, alongside grilled meats, or even on toasted bread as a bruschetta topping, this Marinated Tomato Salad is bound to become a summer favorite.
Ingredients
For the Marinated Tomatoes
- Fresh Tomatoes: 1.5 pounds, sliced (use a variety for color and texture, such as beefsteak, heirloom, cherry, or Roma)
- Red Onion: 1/3 cup, finely sliced or diced (adds a bit of sharpness to balance the tomatoes)
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced (infuses the marinade with subtle warmth)
- Fresh Basil: 2 teaspoons, chopped (adds a sweet, peppery flavor)
- Fresh Parsley: 2 teaspoons, chopped (for a bright, clean taste)
- Fresh Dill: 1 teaspoon, chopped (optional, but adds a lovely tang)
- Olive Oil: 6 tablespoons, extra virgin for the best flavor
- Red Wine Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (balances the oil and enhances the tomato flavor)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, but a generous pinch helps bring out the natural juices in the tomatoes.
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes and Onion
Start by slicing the tomatoes to about 1/3-inch thickness. For cherry tomatoes, simply cut them in halves. Arrange the tomato slices in a shallow dish or a large bowl. Scatter the chopped red onion over the tomatoes. - Create the Flavorful Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add in the freshly chopped basil, parsley, and dill (if using), and whisk again until well combined. The mixture should have a fragrant, herbaceous aroma with a slight tang from the vinegar. - Marinate the Tomatoes
Pour the marinade evenly over the tomatoes and onions. Gently toss everything together to ensure that each tomato slice is well coated with the marinade. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate the salad overnight, allowing the tomatoes to soak up every bit of the marinade. - Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. Transfer it to a serving platter or keep it in the original dish, letting the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and herbs shine. You can serve this Marinated Tomato Salad as a side dish with grilled meats, a refreshing topping for bruschetta, or a light and healthy addition to any meal.