Bursting with vibrant summer flavors, this recipe for Marinated Tomatoes with Basil and Balsamic Vinegar is a quick and easy way to elevate your mealtime spread. Featuring juicy cherry or heirloom tomatoes tossed with fragrant fresh basil, garlic, and a tangy-sweet balsamic dressing, this no-cook dish comes together in just 10 minutes. A hint of honey adds a delicate touch of sweetness, balancing the robust flavors of the balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Allow the tomatoes to marinate and soak up the flavors for a salad that's fresh, aromatic, and irresistible. Perfect as a side dish, a topping for crusty bread, or a light addition to any summer picnic, this versatile recipe highlights seasonal produce at its best while being vegetarian, gluten-free, and full of Mediterranean charm.
Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel, then slice them in halves and transfer them into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince or grate them. Add the garlic to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Tear the fresh basil leaves into small pieces with your hands (avoid cutting them with a knife to preserve their natural flavor and aroma). Add the torn basil to the tomatoes.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and basil, gently tossing everything together to evenly coat.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a more intense flavor, refrigerate the mixture for up to 2 hours but let it come back to room temperature before serving.
Serve the marinated tomatoes as a side dish, salad, or topping for crusty bread. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for presentation.
Calories |
509 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.1 g | 55% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.0 g | 30% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 327 mg | 14% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.3 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.0 g | 25% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.3 g | ||
| Protein | 5.7 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 98 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 1334 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.