Description

This fresh marinated tomato salad is packed with juicy ripe tomatoes, garlic, fresh herbs, and a tangy olive oil dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful. Perfect as a side dish for grilled chicken, steak, seafood, or served with crusty bread. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor becomes!

 Ingredients

For the Salad

• 5–6 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 3 green onions, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey (optional)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Slice them into thick rounds about ½ inch thick. Arrange the slices neatly on a serving plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Mixture

In a medium bowl combine:

• Chopped green onions
• Fresh parsley
• Minced garlic

Mix everything together.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Add to the herb mixture:

• Olive oil
• Vinegar
• Lemon juice
• Honey
• Dijon mustard
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Oregano
• Chili flakes

Whisk until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.

Step 4: Assemble

Spoon the herb dressing generously over every tomato slice, making sure each slice is coated evenly.

Step 5: Marinate

Cover the plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This allows the tomatoes to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Spoon extra dressing from the plate over the tomatoes before serving.

 Tips

•  Use vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor.
•  Fresh parsley can be replaced with fresh basil or cilantro.
•  Add more garlic if you enjoy a stronger garlic flavor.
•  Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the richest taste.
•  Do not refrigerate overnight if using very soft tomatoes, as they may become mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Prepare it up to 4 hours in advance for even better flavor.

What tomatoes work best?

Roma, vine-ripened, heirloom, or beefsteak tomatoes all work wonderfully.

Can I use dried herbs?

Fresh herbs are recommended, but you can substitute with about one-third the amount of dried herbs.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

What can I serve it with?

It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, roasted vegetables, pasta, sandwiches, or toasted artisan bread.

 Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Servings: 4

• Calories: 155
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg

This simple marinated tomato salad is fresh, colorful, and full of bright Mediterranean-inspired flavors, making it a perfect side dish for summer meals or everyday dinners.