What ingredients are typically used to marinate tomatoes?

Typically, tomatoes are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, olive oil, herbs, seasonings, and even a touch of sugar or honey to balance the flavor of the marinade.

What type of tomatoes are best for marinating?

Roma, cherry, grape, Heirloom, or beefsteak tomatoes all hold up well to marinating.

How long do marinated tomatoes need to marinate?

A short marinating time of under an hour can add a quick burst of flavor to tomatoes, but extended marinating, up to 24 hours, can provide the most intense flavor.

Marinated Tomatoes Recipe

Hands On Time:

5 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 50 mins

Yield:

4 cups

Marinated tomatoes takes the flavor of ripe summer tomatoes to new levels. Whether served as a side dish, topping for salads or sandwiches, or as a light appetizer, marinated tomatoes are a quick way of celebrating the vibrant flavors of the season. Consider our mouthwatering marinated tomatoes your quickest way to mealtime bliss.

Note that the tomatoes will need to sit for about an hour and 45 minutes before serving. This time is well spent, giving all those delicious flavors time to expertly meld together.

Learn how to make marinated tomatoes. Want a quick weeknight meal idea? Once the tomatoes are ready, simply toss them with cooked thin spaghetti and small mozzarella balls. Dinner is as simple as that.

Ingredients for Marinated Tomatoes

No matter how you choose to use these tomatoes, their vibrant, savory flavor can improve just about any dish. To make marinated tomatoes, you'll need:

Assorted tomatoes: The base of the dish, adding an assortment of colors, textures, and sweetness levels depending on the variety of tomatoes you choose.
Shallot: Adds a mild, sweet oniony flavor.
Garlic cloves: For a savory depth.
Red wine vinegar: Acidity and tanginess to brighten the tomatoes.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and binds the flavors of the dish.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
Fresh basil and Italian parsley leaves: Offer a fresh, herbaceous flavor and pop of color that complements the flavor of the tomatoes nicely.

Southern Living Marinated Tomatoes ingredients — Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

How To Make Marinated Tomatoes

Making marinated tomatoes couldn't be easier. In fact, making them a couple of hours ahead or even the day before can enhance their flavor even more.

Simply stir to combine all the ingredients listed—with the exception of the herbs. Cover and set aside for 1 hour and 45 minutes, tossing occasionally. This gives all the flavors time to meld and work their way into the tomatoes. Toss in the herbs and serve.

Marinated Tomatoes Variations

To add additional flavor and variety to marinated tomatoes, consider these additions:

Types of tomatoes: Use different colorful varieties, including heirloom tomatoes, cherry or grape tomatoes, or any other types you have on hand.
Vinegar: Swap the red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or apple cider vinegar, if preferred.
Citrus: Add a citrusy touch with lemon, orange, or lime zest or juice.
Sweetness: Add a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes with honey, maple syrup, or agave.
Shallots: Use red, green, or other types of onions in place of the shallots for a more pungent oniony flavor.
Heat: Add a little heat with red pepper flakes or by adding fresh chiles into the mix.
Herbs: In addition to or in the place of the basil and parsley, thyme, oregano, cilantro, sage, or rosemary can also pair nicely with tomatoes.
Spices: Paprika, Italian seasoning, or other spices can be added for additional flavor.

Ways To Use Marinated Tomatoes

These tomatoes are more than just delicious on their own. Toss them into green salads, pasta salads, or grain-based salads for a burst of juiciness and flavor. Use them to top bruschetta, layer them into sandwiches or wraps, spoon them over grilled chicken or fish, or toss them into cooked pasta for a vibrant weeknight meal in minutes.

They even make a delicious pizza topping, or garnish for soups, stews, or chili, or tangy addition to salsa. Mix them into cocktails, or fold into omelets, frittatas, or scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast option. The opportunities to use these brightly-flavored beauties are almost endless.

Can I Make Marinated Tomatoes Ahead?

While these tomatoes should be left to marinate for over an hour before serving, making them ahead can be a great way to get ahead of your meal prep. Prepare and let them marinate in the refrigerator overnight, or for up to four days, in an airtight container or glass jar with a lid.

Note that the longer they sit, the more the tomatoes may begin to break down. It's best to use them within a day or two for the freshest flavor and texture.

What Our Community Members Are Saying

These tomatoes are as versatile to use as they are delicious. But don't just take our word for it:

Charlie Cross commented, "This was such a surprise. I had too many leftover spaghetti noodles and was looking for a good recipe when I found this one. This recipe is delicious. I made the recipe as written and want to thank you for the great recipe. I'll make it again..it's a keeper."

More Fresh Tomato Recipes You'll Love

During the height of tomato season, there's nothing quite as satisfying as finding new and unique ways to incorporate them into your favorite dishes:

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.

Ingredients

2 lbs. assorted tomatoes, roughly chopped
1 small shallot, minced
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup loosely packed Italian parsley leaves

Directions

Combine tomatoes and marinade ingredients:

Gently stir together tomatoes, minced shallot, crushed garlic, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper and set aside for 1 hour and 45 minutes, tossing occasionally.

Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Add herbs and serve:

Stir in basil leaves and Italian parsley leaves. Serve immediately.

Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are typically used to marinate tomatoes?

Typically, tomatoes are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, olive oil, herbs, seasonings, and even a touch of sugar or honey to balance the flavor of the marinade.
What type of tomatoes are best for marinating?

Roma, cherry, grape, Heirloom, or beefsteak tomatoes all hold up well to marinating.
How long do marinated tomatoes need to marinate?

A short marinating time of under an hour can add a quick burst of flavor to tomatoes, but extended marinating, up to 24 hours, can provide the most intense flavor.