Name: Easy Marinated Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 medium tomatoes, sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste

This Easy Marinated Tomatoes recipe is a fresh, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and vibrant dish that will elevate your table. The marinated tomatoes burst with the bright flavors of herbs, garlic, and olive oil, making them an irresistible addition to any plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how easy this recipe is to throw together. The combination of ripe tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs makes for a vibrant, savory bite that’s both refreshing and flavorful. The best part? It takes hardly any time to prepare, and the longer the tomatoes marinate, the more the flavors develop. It’s one of those dishes that gets better over time and works wonderfully as a side, topping for bread, or even a quick snack.

Ingredients

4 medium tomatoes, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by slicing the tomatoes into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Arrange the sliced tomatoes in a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the tomatoes, making sure to coat them evenly.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid, and let the tomatoes marinate for at least 30 minutes. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become.
Once ready, give the tomatoes a quick toss and serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator for later.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish. It takes around 10 minutes of active prep time and about 30 minutes to marinate. If you want to allow for longer marination, you can leave the tomatoes for up to 2 hours or overnight for an even more intense flavor.

Variations

Add fresh herbs: If you have basil, parsley, or thyme on hand, feel free to toss them into the marinade for extra flavor.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Cheese: Crumbled feta or shaved parmesan can be sprinkled on top for added creaminess and richness.
Balsamic vinegar: Substitute the red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor.

Storage/Reheating

The marinated tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as they sit. However, if you plan to keep them for longer, it’s best to eat them within the first 24 hours for the freshest taste. No reheating is necessary – they’re best served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the tomatoes?

I usually let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, I recommend marinating them for about 1 to 2 hours. The longer they sit, the more the flavors meld.

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, I’ve used cherry or grape tomatoes in this recipe before, and they work wonderfully! Just make sure to adjust the marinating time based on their size.

What can I serve marinated tomatoes with?

These marinated tomatoes are perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, pasta, or on top of toasted bread as an appetizer. They can also be added to salads or used in wraps and sandwiches.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! I love making this ahead of time because the flavors continue to develop. You can store the marinated tomatoes in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! It’s a light and fresh option perfect for anyone following a plant-based diet.

Conclusion

This Easy Marinated Tomatoes recipe is a quick, simple, and flavorful dish that I often turn to when I need something fresh and tasty. With just a few ingredients, it transfo