Classic Summer Tomato Herb Marinade
This easy and refreshing marinade combines fresh summer tomatoes with aromatic herbs, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Perfect for enhancing the flavor of various dishes as a side or topping.
Equipment
- medium-sized bowl
- small bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes a mix of varieties like cherry, grape, Roma, or larger slicing, cut into bite-sized pieces
Marinade
- 1/4 cup fresh basil finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley flat-leaf Italian preferred, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground, or to taste
- red pepper flakes Pinch, Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and prepare the tomatoes, halving cherry or grape tomatoes and coring and cutting larger ones into 1/2 to 1-inch pieces; place all chopped tomatoes in a medium-sized bowl.
Make the Marinade
- Finely chop the fresh basil, parsley, and oregano, then mince the garlic cloves.
Combine Ingredients
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and black pepper, adding red pepper flakes if desired.
Marinate the Tomatoes
- Pour the marinade over the tomatoes, gently tossing until evenly coated.
Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, 1-2 hours (up to 4 hours), stirring occasionally; serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Notes
This marinade is versatile; consider adding a splash of balsamic glaze for extra depth. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavors will be, but avoid marinating for more than 4 hours to maintain tomato texture.