If your garden is overflowing with fresh tomatoes, this Easy Marinated Tomatoes recipe is a delicious way to enjoy every bite. Made with juicy Roma tomatoes, fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice, this simple side dish is light, refreshing, and packed with fresh flavor.
With just a handful of ingredients and a little time to marinate, you'll have a versatile dish that's perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, burgers, or even spooned over toasted bread.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 10 minutes.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for summer gatherings and cookouts.
- Great way to use garden-fresh tomatoes.
- Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
- Tastes even better after marinating.
Ingredients for Easy Marinated Tomatoes
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges or thick slices
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, if tomatoes are slightly tart)
How to Make Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Wash and dry the tomatoes. Slice large tomatoes into wedges or thick slices. If using cherry or grape tomatoes, simply cut them in half.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, garlic, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and honey if using.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Gently fold the tomatoes into the marinade until they're evenly coated.
Step 4: Marinate
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, allow the tomatoes to marinate for 2 to 4 hours, stirring once or twice.
Step 5: Serve
Bring the tomatoes to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Spoon extra marinade over the tomatoes for maximum flavor.
Tips for the Best Easy Marinated Tomatoes
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the sweetest flavor.
- Mix different tomato varieties for beautiful color and texture.
- Fresh herbs make all the difference.
- Don't skip bringing the tomatoes back to room temperature before serving.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking apart softer tomatoes.
Variations
Add Mozzarella
Turn this into a Caprese-inspired salad by adding fresh mozzarella pearls.
Make It Mediterranean
Mix in sliced cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
Add Onions
Thinly sliced red onions add wonderful crunch and a mild bite.
Spice It Up
Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
What to Serve with Easy Marinated Tomatoes
These flavorful tomatoes pair well with:
Storage
Store leftover marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep in mind that tomatoes naturally soften as they sit, making them even better for spooning over grilled meats, pasta, or toasted bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do marinated tomatoes need to be refrigerated?
Yes. Because they contain fresh garlic and herbs, they should always be stored in the refrigerator.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. They're actually best when made several hours ahead so the flavors have time to blend.
What are the best tomatoes to use?
Roma tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, vine-ripened tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or grape tomatoes all work beautifully.
Can I freeze marinated tomatoes?
Freezing isn't recommended since the tomatoes become very soft after thawing.
Recipe Notes
- Fresh basil and parsley provide the brightest flavor.
- Use high-quality olive oil since it's one of the main ingredients.
- A splash of balsamic vinegar adds depth without overpowering the tomatoes.
- This recipe is easy to double for parties and potlucks.
More Fresh Tomato Recipes You'll Love
Final Thoughts
When tomatoes are at their peak, there's no better way to enjoy them than with a simple marinade that lets their natural sweetness shine. This Marinated Tomatoes recipe is effortless, colorful, and bursting with fresh summer flavor. Keep a bowl in the refrigerator for easy lunches, backyard cookouts, or an impressive side dish that comes together in minutes.
Once you try these juicy marinated tomatoes, they'll become one of your favorite ways to celebrate tomato season.
Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Make these easy marinated tomatoes with fresh Roma tomatoes, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. A simple summer side dish ready to chill and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh Roma tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Wash the Roma tomatoes, remove the stems, and chop them into bite-sized chunks.
- Place the tomatoes in a medium mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes.
- Add the lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
- Gently toss until all of the tomatoes are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Stir gently before serving and enjoy chilled or slightly at room temperature.
Notes
Flat-leaf parsley has a fresher, brighter flavor than curly parsley and is recommended for this recipe.
Roma tomatoes hold their shape well, but any ripe, firm tomato can be substituted.
For even more flavor, prepare the tomatoes the night before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 87Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 147mgCarbohydrates: 6gFiber: 2gSugar: 3gProtein: 1g