Marinated tomatoes with basil and garlic are a simple, flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. The fresh tomatoes soak up the aromatic basil and garlic, making them an excellent appetizer, side dish, or even a topping for bruschetta. This dish brings together the rich, juicy flavor of ripe tomatoes with the fragrant essence of basil and the bold kick of garlic, all wrapped in a delicious marinade.
This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. Whether you’re having a casual family meal or entertaining guests, marinated tomatoes with basil and garlic will add a burst of fresh flavor to your table. Let’s dive into the process!
Wash the Tomatoes
Rinse the tomatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or residues. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Slice the Tomatoes
Slice the tomatoes into thick wedges or rounds, depending on your preference. If you’re using Roma tomatoes, you can cut them into halves or quarters for a more rustic look.
Set Aside
Place the sliced tomatoes in a large bowl and set them aside while you prepare the marinade.
Prepare the Garlic and Basil
Thinly slice the garlic cloves and tear or chop the fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can crush the garlic with the side of a knife to release more aroma.
Combine the Marinade Ingredients
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar), salt, pepper, sugar (if using), and oregano. Whisk everything together until well combined. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the vinegar and tomatoes, but you can skip it if you prefer a tangier taste.
Add Garlic and Basil
Add the sliced garlic and basil leaves to the bowl with the tomatoes. Gently toss them together to distribute the garlic and basil evenly throughout the tomatoes.
Pour the Marinade Over the Tomatoes
Drizzle the prepared marinade over the tomatoes. Use a spoon or your hands to gently toss the tomatoes, ensuring that each slice is coated with the marinade and infused with the garlic and basil flavors.
Let the Tomatoes Marinate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the tomatoes and marinade to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably 3-4 hours or overnight for the best flavor. The longer they marinate, the more the tomatoes will absorb the flavors.
Serve
Once the tomatoes have marinated, serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or topping for bruschetta. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or fresh salads.
Garnish
If desired, garnish the marinated tomatoes with extra fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil before serving to add extra richness and color.
Add Other Herbs
Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for different flavor profiles. Each herb will add its own unique touch to the marinade.
Add Cheese
Crumbled feta, mozzarella balls, or shaved Parmesan can be added to the marinated tomatoes just before serving for added richness and flavor.
Make It Spicy
If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the marinade. This will infuse the tomatoes with a subtle heat that complements the garlic and basil.
Serve with Bread
For a more substantial dish, serve the marinated tomatoes on top of toasted crusty bread. Drizzle some extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple yet delicious appetizer.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and antioxidants like lycopene. They are known to support heart health, skin health, and help reduce inflammation.
Basil
Basil is full of essential oils and antioxidants, providing anti-inflammatory benefits and helping to boost your immune system.
Garlic
Garlic is well-known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps with digestion and supports heart health.
If you have any leftovers, store the marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or at room temperature. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become.
Marinated tomatoes with basil and garlic are a simple, delicious way to enhance the flavor of fresh tomatoes. The combination of tangy vinegar, fragrant basil, and aromatic garlic creates a beautiful balance of flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or topping, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to impress your guests. Try it today and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
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