Marinated cherry tomatoes are a fresh, tangy, and flavorful side dish made by soaking sweet cherry tomatoes in a zesty blend of oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Perfect as a snack, salad topper, or bruschetta base.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Full of bright, zesty flavor
- Great make-ahead option for parties
- Healthy and naturally vegan
- Versatile and pairs well with many dishes
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- Olive oil
- Red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or chives)
- Salt and black pepper
- Optional: red onion, sugar, lemon juice, chili flakes
Directions
- Prepare tomatoes: Rinse and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Mix marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add a pinch of sugar or lemon juice if desired.
- Combine: Toss the tomatoes with the marinade. Add red onion or chili flakes if using.
- Marinate: Let sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours or refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to overnight) for deeper flavor. Stir occasionally.
- Serve: Bring to room temperature before serving. Use as a side, in salads, or on toast.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Marinate time: 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor)
- Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- With burrata: Add balsamic and fresh basil, serve over burrata
- Spicy version: Include red chili flakes or minced jalapeño
- Mediterranean style: Add olives, oregano, and cucumbers
- Oil-free: Skip the oil and use lemon juice or vinegar for a lighter version
- Peel tomatoes: For a refined touch, blanch and peel before marinating
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Freezing not recommended: Tomatoes lose their texture
- To serve: Stir and bring to room temperature; add fresh herbs if needed
FAQs
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry?
Yes, grape tomatoes work just as well.
How long do marinated tomatoes last?
Up to 5 days in the fridge, but best flavor is within 2–3 days.
What vinegar works best?
Red wine vinegar is classic, but balsamic or apple cider vinegar also work well.
Can I skip the oil?
Yes, you can use all vinegar or lemon juice for a lighter version.
Are they spicy?
Not unless you add chili flakes or hot peppers.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and it tastes even better the next day.
What goes well with marinated cherry tomatoes?
Grilled meats, pasta, bruschetta, salads, and cheese boards.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
Not necessary, but you can for a smoother texture.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, feta, mozzarella, or burrata pair beautifully.
Can I use dried herbs?
Fresh is best, but dried herbs work in a pinch—use about half the amount.
Conclusion
Marinated cherry tomatoes are a simple, flavorful addition to any table. With minimal prep and endless serving possibilities, they’re a perfect way to enjoy summer’s sweetest tomatoes. Make a batch and enjoy the zesty burst of freshness!
Print
Marinated Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 10 mins (+30 mins marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Side
- Method: No‑cook, marinate
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Juicy cherry tomatoes marinated in a tangy-herb vinaigrette—easy, colorful, and perfect as a side, appetizer, or salad topper.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or left whole depending on size
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp fresh oregano or thyme, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place the tomatoes in a medium bowl.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours) to let flavors meld.
- Stir again before serving, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve as a side dish, appetizer (with skewers or toothpicks), or use as a topping for bruschetta, grilled meats, or salad greens.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe, firm cherry tomatoes for the best texture and sweetness.
- Customize herbs according to your preference—fresh basil and oregano are especially tasty.
- For extra brightness, stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeño.
- Before serving, drizzle a little more olive oil or a splash of vinegar if needed to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg