Marinated Tomato Salad Recipe
One of the most wonderful vegetables of summer is undoubtedly the tomato. Especially when they’re sun-ripened, beautifully fragrant, and bursting with juice… This recipe is perfect for those who want to put such tomatoes in the spotlight. Unlike classic tomato salads, marinated tomato salad enhances the flavor severalfold by letting the tomatoes soak in an aromatic dressing. When served chilled, it feels less like a salad and more like a refreshing mezze that completes the table.
This recipe stands out with both its simplicity and sophisticated flavor. It’s ideal for anyone looking to create maximum taste with minimal ingredients. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories.
Marinated Tomato Salad at a Glance
Prep Time: Up to 10 minutes
Resting Time: At least 2 hours (the longer, the better)
Nutritional Info: Low calorie, high in fiber, packed with antioxidants
What Does Marinating Bring to the Salad?
Marinating isn’t just for meat. When vegetables are marinated with the right ingredients, they soften while releasing and blending their flavors. In this recipe, balsamic vinegar and lemon juice pair beautifully with the tomato’s natural sweetness. Olive oil serves as both a carrier and a flavor enhancer. Red onion and fresh herbs deepen the aroma. After chilling in the fridge for a few hours, all these flavors and aromas meld together, resulting in something truly special.
Tips
• Choose ripe but not overly soft tomatoes—they should hold their shape and carry the dressing without falling apart.
• You can substitute pomegranate molasses for balsamic vinegar, but the flavor profile will change. Balsamic provides the characteristic acidity and subtle sweetness of this dish.
• Instead of fresh coriander, you can use dill or basil, but for coriander lovers, this version is exceptional.
• The longer the marination, the deeper the flavor. Two to three hours is ideal, but it can also be prepared a day in advance and served the next day.
• Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to better enjoy the aroma of the olive oil.
What to Serve with Marinated Tomato Salad?
• A refreshing side to grilled meat, chicken, or fish dishes.
• The star of a summer table full of cold mezze—when served this way, you can crumble some tangy, high-quality white cheese over the top.
• Pairs beautifully with olive oil dishes and legume salads, offering a colorful and satisfying plate.
• Works perfectly in vegan or vegetarian menus alongside a protein-rich legume dish.
Enjoy…
Ingredients
- 3 medium tomatoes,
- 1/4 red onion,
- A handful of parsley,
- A handful of fresh mint,
- A handful of fresh coriander,
- 1 tsp isot (Urfa chili flakes),
- Juice of 1/4 lemon,
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar,
- 2 tbsp olive oil,
- Salt.
Preparation
- Slice the tomatoes into rounds and arrange on a serving plate,
- Finely chop the onion,
- Chop the herbs,
- In a bowl, combine the onion, herbs, isot, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and salt,
- Spoon the mixture over the tomatoes and spread evenly with the back of a spoon,
- Cover and refrigerate for a few hours to marinate.
Enjoy…