Marinated cherry tomatoes have become my go-to for a burst of fresh flavor, especially when summer produce is at its peak. I still remember the first time I tried them at a friend’s barbecue; the tomatoes were glossy, bursting with sweetness, and had this incredible tangy kick that I just couldn’t get enough of. They were so much more vibrant than plain old tomatoes! Wondering what are marinated cherry tomatoes? They’re simply fresh cherry tomatoes that have been bathed in a zesty mixture of olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and garlic, transforming them into little jewels of deliciousness. This simple preparation method intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a delightful savory depth. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Marinated Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with these incredibly easy marinated cherry tomatoes! They’re a game-changer for busy cooks.
- Incredibly Quick Prep: You can have these ready in under 15 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous meals.
- Effortless Elegance: These easy marinated cherry tomatoes look and taste impressive with minimal effort.
- Bursting with Freshness: Experience the vibrant, juicy taste of summer in every bite.
- Super Versatile: They’re not just for salads; think pasta dishes, sandwiches, or a delightful appetizer.
- Healthy & Delicious: Packed with flavor, these quick marinated cherry tomatoes are a guilt-free way to add zest to your plate.
- No Cooking Required: Perfect for warm weather when you don’t want to turn on the stove.
- Simple Yet Flavorful: The combination of ingredients creates a complex taste profile from basic pantry staples.
Ingredients for Simple Marinated Cherry Tomatoes
To make this fantastic Marinated cherry tomatoes recipe, you’ll need a few fresh ingredients. The star, of course, is the cherry tomato itself – I like using about 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved, so they can really soak up that delicious marinade. For the marinade, I always reach for good quality 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; it’s the base for that rich, smooth texture. A splash of 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or balsamic!) adds a lovely tang that balances the sweetness. Don’t forget 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced for a gentle bite, and plenty of fresh herbs like 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley. A simple seasoning of 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper ties it all together. This simple combination is what makes these Olive oil marinated cherry tomatoes so incredibly delicious and versatile.
How to Make Marinated Cherry Tomatoes
Learning how to marinate cherry tomatoes is super simple and yields amazing results! It’s the perfect way to transform simple ingredients into something truly special. Follow these steps for your own homemade batch.
- Step 1: Start by giving your tomatoes a good rinse under cool water. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel – this is important so the marinade adheres properly. Once dry, slice 3 cups cherry tomatoes in half. You’ll notice how vibrant and plump they are! Place all the halved tomatoes into a medium-sized bowl.
- Step 2: Now, let’s whip up that irresistible marinade. In a separate small bowl, combine all the wet and dry ingredients. Whisk together 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar. Add the thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh basil, and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a touch of sweetness, stir in 1 teaspoon honey, or for extra zip, add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. This blend creates the perfect base for your garlic marinated cherry tomatoes.
- Step 3: Pour that glorious marinade over the halved tomatoes in the bowl. Gently toss everything together with a spoon or your hands, making sure each tomato half is coated. You’ll start to smell the wonderful aroma of garlic and herbs already! Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Step 4: Now comes the waiting game, but it’s worth it! Refrigerate the bowl for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial for the flavors to meld and deepen, allowing the tomatoes to absorb all that deliciousness. For an even more intense flavor, you can let them marinate for up to 3 hours.
- Step 5: Before serving your beautiful marinated cherry tomatoes recipe, give them another gentle toss. This helps redistribute the flavorful oil and vinegar mixture. Taste a tomato – you’ll be amazed at how bright and juicy they are!
Pro Tips for the Best Marinated Cherry Tomatoes
Want to elevate your marinated cherry tomatoes from good to absolutely sensational? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be wowing your friends and family in no time!
- Tomato Choice Matters: Always opt for firm, ripe cherry tomatoes. Avoid any that are bruised or overly soft, as they can become mushy during marinating.
- Don’t Skimp on Chill Time: While you can serve these after 30 minutes, letting them marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight, allows the flavors to truly meld and deepen beautifully.
- Gentle Toss is Key: After marinating, be sure to toss them gently. Over-stirring can bruise the tomatoes and break them down, affecting the texture.
- Room Temperature is Best: For the most vibrant flavor and best texture, bring your marinated cherry tomatoes to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
What’s the secret to perfect Marinated Cherry Tomatoes?
The real secret to achieving the best marinated cherry tomatoes is allowing adequate time for the flavors to meld. A longer marinating period, even overnight, lets the tomatoes absorb the tangy vinegar and aromatic garlic and herbs. For more tips on flavor infusion, check out these easy homemade seasoning mix recipes.
Can I make Marinated Cherry Tomatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These are fantastic for meal prep. You can make them up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually get even better! For other make-ahead meal ideas, explore these cold lunch ideas for adults.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Marinated Cherry Tomatoes?
A common pitfall is using underripe or mushy tomatoes. Another mistake is not letting them marinate long enough; this prevents the flavors from fully developing. Lastly, always dry your tomatoes thoroughly after washing!
Best Ways to Serve Marinated Cherry Tomatoes
These flavorful little gems are incredibly versatile! They are perfect as a vibrant marinated cherry tomatoes appetizer served with crusty bread or crackers. Imagine a platter of these alongside some cheese and olives – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! For a lighter meal, they are fantastic piled onto a bed of mixed greens as a stunning marinated cherry tomatoes for salad. The bright, zesty dressing acts as a built-in vinaigrette, making it a complete dish. I also love spooning them over grilled chicken or fish, or tossing them into pasta for an instant flavor upgrade. They truly elevate any dish they touch! Try them with grilled chicken strips for a delicious pairing.
Nutrition Facts for Marinated Cherry Tomatoes
When you whip up this delightful dish, you’re not just adding amazing flavor, but also keeping things healthy! Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (which is about 1/2 cup of these juicy wonders):
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you add optional ingredients like cheese or honey. For more information on healthy eating, consider these foods to eat less of to stay healthy.
How to Store and Reheat Marinated Cherry Tomatoes
Properly storing your delicious marinated cherry tomatoes is key to enjoying them for days. Once they’ve cooled down a bit after marinating, transfer them to an airtight container. I find that glass containers work best for this. When it comes to marinated cherry tomatoes storage, they’ll stay wonderfully fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually tend to deepen and improve with a little time! While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for longer storage, up to 3 months, though the texture might be slightly softer upon thawing. To reheat, simply let them come to room temperature on the counter for about 20-30 minutes before serving. For frozen tomatoes, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first.
Variations of Marinated Cherry Tomatoes You Can Try
While the classic recipe is fantastic, there are so many fun ways to switch things up! I love experimenting to create different flavor profiles. For a vibrant twist, try making herb marinated cherry tomatoes by adding fresh dill, chives, or even a sprig of rosemary along with the basil and parsley. These variations are wonderful for adding a unique touch to any meal.
If you’re craving that classic Mediterranean taste, go for Italian marinated cherry tomatoes. This version often includes capers, a touch of oregano, and perhaps some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor. For a spicier kick, simply increase the red pepper flakes or add a minced jalapeño. You can also make a heartier version by adding marinated olives or artichoke hearts. These simple tweaks allow you to customize your tomatoes to perfectly match your meal or mood! Consider pairing them with a tomato garlic salad for a complementary dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marinated Cherry Tomatoes
Why marinate cherry tomatoes?
Marinating cherry tomatoes transforms their flavor and texture, making them incredibly delicious. The process allows the tomatoes to absorb the savory marinade, infusing them with herbs, garlic, and a bright tang from the vinegar. It intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a juicy, tender quality that plain tomatoes just don’t have. It’s a simple way to elevate a basic ingredient into something truly special.
What kind of vinegar should I use for marinated cherry tomatoes?
You have a few great options! Red wine vinegar is a classic choice for its crisp, fruity bite that complements the tomatoes perfectly. Balsamic vinegar adds a deeper, sweeter, and slightly more complex flavor profile. Apple cider vinegar can also work for a milder tang. Whichever vinegar marinated cherry tomatoes you choose, a little goes a long way to add that essential brightness.
Can I freeze marinated cherry tomatoes?
While you can freeze them, I don’t highly recommend it if you want to maintain the best texture. Freezing and thawing can make the tomatoes a bit mushy. They are best enjoyed fresh within 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator. If you do need to freeze them for longer storage, ensure they are well-drained and stored in airtight containers, keeping in mind the texture change upon thawing.
Are marinated cherry tomatoes healthy?
Yes, they are! Marinated cherry tomatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the tomatoes themselves. The primary ingredients are healthy fats from olive oil and the natural goodness of fresh produce. They are low in calories and carbohydrates, making them a fantastic healthy addition to salads, sides, or appetizers. Just be mindful of added sugars or excessive salt if you’re watching sodium intake.
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Marinated Cherry Tomatoes: 15-Min Flavor Burst
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Marinated cherry tomatoes are glossy, juicy, and full of summer flavor. This quick, no-cook recipe combines ripe cherry tomatoes with olive oil, herbs, and a splash of vinegar for a bright, zesty dish that elevates everything from salads to sandwiches and pasta. Fresh, healthy, and ready in minutes!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Fresh thyme or oregano sprigs (optional)
- Crumbled feta or mozzarella balls for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Wash, dry, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Place them in a medium bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add honey or mustard if using.
- Pour the marinade over the tomatoes and toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 3 hours.
- Toss again before serving. Enjoy as a side dish, salad topper, or spooned over toast, pasta, or grilled meats.
Notes
- Use firm, ripe tomatoes for best results.
- Adjust vinegar and olive oil to taste for balanced flavor.
- Chill at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Store in an airtight container and enjoy within 4 days.
- Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook, Marinated
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Marinated Cherry Tomatoes, Tomato Salad, Summer Side Dish, Fresh Tomato Recipes, Easy Appetizers, Mediterranean Salad, Vegan Recipes, Healthy Side Dishes
