There’s nothing quite like a juicy, sun-ripened tomato in the summertime. But let’s be honest, a simple tomato salad can sometimes end up a bit… watery. That’s where this recipe for Simple Marinated Tomatoes comes in! This isn’t just another tomato salad; it’s a vibrant, flavorful explosion that stays perfectly delicious, without the dreaded watery bottom. The secret? A simple salting trick that elevates this humble dish to a whole new level. Get ready to taste the difference!
Why You’ll Love This Simple Marinated Tomatoes Recipe
This recipe transforms ordinary tomatoes into something extraordinary. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to it:
- Intense Flavor: The marinade perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- No More Watery Salad: Say goodbye to that diluted flavor! Our secret step eliminates excess moisture.
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep time makes this perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Versatile: A fantastic side dish, topping for grilled meats, or even a light lunch.
- Fresh & Healthy: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, it’s a guilt-free pleasure.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Simple Marinated Tomatoes
The beauty of this Simple Marinated Tomatoes recipe lies in its simplicity. We’re using fresh, high-quality ingredients that work together to create a bright and flavorful dish. Think of it as a symphony of summer flavors, with each element playing a crucial role. The star, of course, is the tomatoes, so choose wisely!
- 3-4 medium-large tomatoes: Look for ripe, but firm, tomatoes. Heirloom varieties, beefsteak, or even Roma tomatoes work well. The key is to select tomatoes with a good balance of sweetness and acidity.
- 1/4 medium red onion: The red onion adds a sharp, pungent bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes. Thinly slicing is key to ensure it doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste: Salt is essential for drawing out the tomato’s excess moisture, as well as enhancing its natural sweetness.
The dressing is where the magic truly happens, bringing all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic provides a pungent, aromatic base for the dressing. Mincing it finely ensures it distributes evenly and doesn’t overwhelm the other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or mixed Italian herbs: Dried oregano adds a warm, earthy depth. If you prefer, a mixed Italian herb blend works just as well.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: These add a subtle nutty flavor and a delightful textural contrast.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Choose a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: The red wine vinegar provides a tangy acidity that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the olive oil.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste: Black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the dressing. Freshly ground is always best!
Crafting Your Simple Marinated Tomatoes: Step-by-Step
Making these Simple Marinated Tomatoes is incredibly easy. The key to success is the salting technique, which prevents a watery salad. Don’t skip this step – it truly makes all the difference!
- Draw Out Excess Moisture: Arrange the sliced tomatoes in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or tray. Sprinkle them evenly with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Now, patience! Let them sit for at least 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This is where the magic happens. The salt draws out the excess moisture from the tomatoes, concentrating their flavor and preventing a watery salad. Think of it as a little spa day for your tomatoes!
- Prepare the Flavorful Dressing: While the tomatoes are draining, it’s time to whip up the dressing. Thinly slice the red onion. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried herbs, sesame seeds, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and black pepper. Give it a taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. The dressing should be well-balanced, with a good mix of acidity, sweetness, and herbaceousness. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Blot and Arrange: After their salting session, gently blot the drained tomatoes with a paper towel to remove any remaining surface moisture. This further helps prevent a watery salad. Now, arrange the tomatoes artfully on a serving plate. Presentation matters!
- Add the Red Onion: Scatter the thinly sliced red onion over the tomatoes. The red onion adds a pop of color and a sharp, pungent flavor.
- Drizzle with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the tomatoes and onions. Make sure every slice gets a generous coating of the flavorful marinade.
- Serve and Enjoy (Soon!): Serve immediately or let sit for 10-15 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld. Don’t let it sit for longer than 30 minutes, as it can still lead to some juicing, even with the salting. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of your Simple Marinated Tomatoes!
Tips for Perfect Simple Marinated Tomatoes Every Time
Want to take your Simple Marinated Tomatoes to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure success:
- Choose Ripe, but Firm, Tomatoes: Overripe tomatoes will be too soft and mushy, while underripe tomatoes will lack flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Salting Step: This is crucial for preventing a watery salad.
- Thinly Slice the Red Onion: This prevents it from overpowering the other flavors.
- Use Good-Quality Olive Oil: The olive oil is a key component of the dressing, so choose a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to adjust the salt, pepper, and vinegar to your liking.
- Serve Soon After Marinating: While marinating for a short time enhances the flavors, letting it sit for too long can lead to some juicing.
What to Serve With Simple Marinated Tomatoes
These Simple Marinated Tomatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. They’re a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They also make a delicious topping for bruschetta or crostini. For a light and refreshing lunch, serve them with some fresh mozzarella and basil. You could also toss them with pasta for a simple and flavorful meal. They would be an amazing accompaniment to our savory sausage and bread bake, adding a light fresh touch.
Your Simple Marinated Tomatoes Questions Answered (FAQ)
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! While this recipe works great with standard tomatoes, feel free to experiment with different varieties like heirloom tomatoes, cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered), or Roma tomatoes. Each type will offer a slightly different flavor and texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While the salting process helps prevent a watery salad, it’s best to serve this dish within 30 minutes of marinating. The flavors will meld beautifully, but letting it sit for too long can still lead to some juicing.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables to this salad! Cucumber, bell peppers, or even avocado would be delicious additions. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
While red wine vinegar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other types of vinegar like balsamic vinegar or white balsamic vinegar. Keep in mind that each type of vinegar will impart a slightly different flavor. Balsamic vinegar, for example, will add a touch of sweetness.
Enjoy Your Homemade Simple Marinated Tomatoes!
There you have it! A simple, yet incredibly flavorful recipe for Simple Marinated Tomatoes that’s guaranteed to become a summer staple. The key to success is the salting technique, which prevents a watery salad and concentrates the tomato’s natural sweetness. So, grab some fresh tomatoes, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a burst of summer flavor in every bite. We would love to see your version of the recipe! Share your photos and comments below!