Description

Easy Marinated Tomatoes is a fresh and flavorful side dish featuring ripe tomato slices marinated in a tangy mixture of olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and herbs. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for summer meals, adding a vibrant burst of color and taste to any table. Ideal for quick preparation with no cooking required, it highlights the natural sweetness and juiciness of tomatoes enhanced by aromatic basil and parsley.

Ingredients

Scale

Tomatoes

4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds

Marinade

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Herbs

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Prepare Tomatoes: Begin by slicing the large ripe tomatoes into thick, even rounds and place them carefully in a shallow dish or bowl to lay the foundation for the marinade.
Make Marinade: In a separate small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired, ensuring a smooth and balanced dressing.
Combine: Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the tomato slices, making sure each slice is well coated with the flavorful mixture for optimal taste absorption.
Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh torn or chopped basil leaves along with chopped parsley over the top of the marinated tomatoes to infuse fresh herbaceous notes.
Marinate and Chill: Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours, allowing the tomatoes to soak up the marinade and develop rich flavors.
Serve: Remove from the refrigerator and serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or as a vibrant topping for your favorite meals.

Notes

For added flavor, try using heirloom or cherry tomatoes which offer unique sweetness and texture variations.
You can add thinly sliced red onions to introduce a mild pungency and crunchy contrast.
A splash of balsamic vinegar can be used in place of red wine vinegar for a sweeter, richer marinade.