Brighten any meal with Marinated Tomatoes! Sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, zesty red grape vinegar, garlic, and olive oil create a simple, refreshing side. Easy recipe & nutrition.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
Scale
1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red grape vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the tomatoes. Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Depending on their size, you can leave them whole or halve them for quicker marinating. Place the prepared tomatoes into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the aromatics and herbs. Mince the garlic cloves very finely, or use a garlic press. Finely chop the fresh basil leaves. Add both the minced garlic and chopped basil to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Step 3: Whisk the marinade ingredients. In a separate small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the sugar and salt have dissolved.
Step 4: Combine and coat. Pour the whisked marinade mixture over the tomatoes, garlic, and basil in the medium bowl. Gently toss everything together using a spoon or spatula, ensuring that all the tomatoes are evenly coated with the marinade.
Step 5: Chill and allow flavors to meld. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours, to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld. Stir once or twice during the marinating period if desired.
Step 6: Serve. Remove the marinated tomatoes from the refrigerator and give them a final gentle stir. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish, a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Keep these vibrant marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though they're truly at their peak deliciousness within the first 24 hours.
These beauties are meant to be a refreshing, chilled delight; please don't reheat them, as their fresh texture and bright flavors are best enjoyed straight from the fridge.
Elevate your next meal by serving these jewel-toned tomatoes over grilled halloumi cheese, alongside a simple pasta, or even gently folded into a fresh omelet.
For the most delicious results, ensure your sugar and salt are completely dissolved in the marinade before adding to the tomatoes; this guarantees a perfectly balanced flavor in every bite.