Best Marinated Tomatoes Salad
This Best Marinated Tomatoes Salad is a fresh, no-cook side dish made with ripe tomatoes, red onion, and a simple olive oil vinaigrette. Bursting with bright, tangy flavor and fresh herbs, this easy tomato salad recipe is perfect for summer BBQs, weeknight dinners, and make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 4 –5 large ripe tomatoes or 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- Marinade / Flavor Base
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of sugar optional
- Pantry Staples
- Extra salt to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables
- Wash and dry tomatoes.
- Slice large tomatoes into wedges or thick slices (halve cherry tomatoes).
- Thinly slice red onion.
- Chop fresh basil and parsley.
- Combine Tomatoes & Onion
- Place tomatoes and onion in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
- Marinate
- Pour marinade over tomatoes and onion.
- Gently toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle fresh basil and parsley over the top.
- Rest
- Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve at room temperature.
Notes
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Do not skip marinating time—it enhances sweetness and texture.
- Serve at room temperature for maximum taste.
- Drain excess liquid if salad becomes too watery.
- Best enjoyed within 1–2 days.