Name: Marinated Cherry Tomato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 16 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes (halved or quartered); 1 clove garlic (finely grated); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice; 1 pinch dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 2 teaspoons fresh basil (minced); 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (minced)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Marinated tomatoes are a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a fresh side or topping. This simple recipe combines juicy tomatoes with garlic, herbs, and a tangy dressing that enhances their natural sweetness.

A white bowl filled with cut cherry tomatoes, vibrant red and glossy, mixed with small green basil leaves and chopped herbs, showing a fresh and juicy texture. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, partially covered by the tomatoes. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, next to a few pieces of light brown bread with a soft texture. In the background, there is a white bowl filled with finely chopped green herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes (halved or quartered)
1 clove garlic (finely grated)

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice

1 pinch dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

2 teaspoons fresh basil (minced)
2 teaspoons fresh parsley (minced)

Instructions

Step 1: Place the tomatoes in a bowl. Add the grated garlic, olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and fresh herbs.

Step 2: Toss everything gently until the tomatoes are well coated with the marinade.
Step 3: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Remove the tomatoes from the fridge and let them come to room temperature before serving.

Step 5: Serve as a side dish or use as a topping for salads and grilled breads.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of colorful cherry tomatoes for a more visually appealing dish.
Substitute fresh oregano for dried if you have it on hand for a brighter herb flavor.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top before serving for added sweetness and depth.

Storage

Store marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to return to room temperature before serving, as chilly tomatoes can mute the flavors. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the marinade.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with bright red grape tomatoes cut in halves forms the main layer, mixed with small green basil leaves and a few traces of seasoning visible on the tomatoes’ shiny, juicy surfaces. A single slice of light brown bread rests against the inside edge of the bowl. A silver spoon lies inside the bowl at the bottom, angled towards the front. The bowl sits on a light wooden cutting board, which is placed on a white marbled surface. Around the bowl, there are three slices of the same light brown bread and some crumbs scattered near a small white bowl filled with dried green herbs on the upper left side. On the lower left is a red and white striped cloth, and on the right edge of the image is a small clear glass container with golden olive oil. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, small tomatoes like cherry or grape work best because they hold their shape well. You can also use diced larger tomatoes, but the texture will be softer.

How long can marinated tomatoes be stored?

For best flavor and texture, consume within 3 days refrigerated. After this, the tomatoes may become too soft and lose their freshness.