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Fresh Marinated Tomatoes Salad Recipe

marinated tomatoes salad recipe - featured image

A simple, flavorful marinated tomato salad that lets ripe tomatoes shine with a bright herb and garlic marinade. Perfect for summer gatherings, this easy side dish comes together in minutes and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ripe tomatoes (about 68 medium, mixed varieties)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 small shallot, thinly sliced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh mozzarella pearls (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash tomatoes, pat dry, and cut out stem cores. Slice into wedges or chunks (about 1-2 inches). Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper over tomatoes. Toss gently and let sit for 5 minutes to draw out juices.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped basil, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and sliced shallot. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Pour marinade over salted tomatoes. Toss gently to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or lid and let marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for best texture).
  5. Before serving, stir and taste. Adjust salt, vinegar, or oil as needed. Add optional balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes, or mozzarella pearls if desired.
  6. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra basil or flaky sea salt. Serve immediately or within 1 hour.

Notes

Don’t over-marinate; 30 minutes to 2 hours is ideal. Use a mix of tomato varieties for best texture and flavor. Let minced garlic sit in olive oil for a few minutes to mellow. Save leftover marinade for dressings or drizzling. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; best within 24 hours. Do not freeze.

Nutrition

Keywords: marinated tomatoes, tomato salad, summer salad, easy side dish, fresh tomato recipe, vegan, gluten-free