Marinated Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Bright, juicy cherry tomatoes marinated in a blend of herbs and spices create a fresh and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. This simple recipe transforms everyday tomatoes into a delicious side or appetizer bursting with vibrant taste. Whether you want a quick snack, a salad addition, or a topping for grilled meats, marinated cherry tomatoes offer versatility and ease.
The marinade enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while adding depth through garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs. This no cook recipe is quick to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully after just a short time. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a bright, healthy dish that complements a variety of foods.
Why You Need This Recipe
This marinated cherry tomatoes recipe is a quick and easy way to add fresh, vibrant flavor to your meals. It takes simple ingredients and turns them into a tasty side or topping that brightens any dish.
It is versatile enough to use as a salad ingredient, a snack, or a complement to grilled meats and cheeses. Plus, it requires minimal prep and no cooking, making it perfect for busy days or last minute gatherings. This recipe brings freshness and flavor to your table with very little effort.
Ingredients
Here are the fresh and flavorful ingredients you’ll need for this easy Marinated Cherry Tomatoes recipe, along with their calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry tomatoes | 2 cups (300 g) | 60 |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | 360 |
| Fresh basil (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | 2 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 9 |
| Red wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon | 3 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 3 |
Estimated Total Calories: 437 calories
How to Prepare
Start by washing the cherry tomatoes and cutting any larger ones in half to ensure even marination. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together to create the marinade.
Add the cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil to the bowl and gently toss until all the tomatoes are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, let it marinate for 2 hours or overnight. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a flavorful side or topping.
Pro Tips
Use ripe, firm cherry tomatoes for the best texture and flavor. Overripe tomatoes can become mushy when marinated.
Allow enough marinating time at least 30 minutes to let the flavors fully develop. Overnight marinating will deepen the taste even more.
For added depth, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinade. Always use fresh herbs like basil for a bright, vibrant flavor. Lastly, store the marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to three days.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Marinated cherry tomatoes pair wonderfully with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices for a simple appetizer. They also complement grilled chicken, fish, or steak by adding a fresh, tangy burst of flavor.
For salads, toss them with mixed greens, feta cheese, and olives to create a Mediterranean inspired dish. You can also use these tomatoes as a topping for pasta, bruschetta, or even creamy cheeses like burrata for an elegant touch. Fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan can add an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Marinated cherry tomatoes are a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while adding a fresh, tangy twist through the marinade.
Quick to prepare and versatile in use, these marinated tomatoes work perfectly as a side dish, appetizer, or topping. Keep this recipe handy for a delicious way to brighten your table with minimal effort.
