Delicious Marinated Tomato Salad 🍅🌿

Fresh, juicy, and full of Mediterranean charm, this marinated tomato salad is simplicity at its finest.
When tomatoes are in season, there’s nothing better than letting their natural sweetness shine through with just a few well-chosen ingredients. This Marinated Tomato Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with bold, summery flavors—from tangy vinegar to aromatic garlic and herbs. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, piling it on crusty bread, or adding a little cheese or avocado to elevate it into a main, this dish is all about sunshine in a bowl!
Ingredients
- 4–5 ripe tomatoes (heirloom, cherry, or Roma), sliced or chopped
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh mozzarella balls or crumbled feta
- Sliced avocado
- Cucumber slices for extra crunch
Instructions
1️⃣ Combine the Base:
Place your juicy tomatoes and thinly sliced red onions in a large mixing bowl.
2️⃣ Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, sugar or honey (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper.
3️⃣ Toss It Together:
Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and onions. Gently toss everything to coat without breaking up the tomatoes too much.
4️⃣ Let It Soak:
Allow the salad to marinate for 15–30 minutes at room temperature. This gives the flavors time to mingle and deepen.
5️⃣ Add Fresh Herbs & Extras:
Just before serving, sprinkle in your chopped basil or parsley. Add cheese, avocado, or cucumber if desired.
Serving Tips & Ideas
- Best Served: Slightly chilled or at room temperature
- Pair With: Grilled meats, roasted fish, or pasta
- Bonus Use: Spoon over toasted baguette slices for a quick and easy bruschetta-style appetizer
- Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day
Serves: 4–6
Calories: ~100–130 kcal per serving
This tomato salad is the very definition of a warm-weather classic—vibrant, unfussy, and packed with flavor. It’s one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making on repeat all summer long!
Want a Mediterranean twist with olives and capers? Just say the word!