Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)

Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad) is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This salad showcases juicy tomatoes marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, red apple vinegar, and fresh herbs. It’s an ideal side dish for barbecues, picnics, or casual dinners, providing a refreshing contrast to heartier meals. With its simple preparation and fresh ingredients, this Italian Tomato Salad is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an excellent choice for last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh tomatoes and herbs, this salad bursts with flavor and nutrition.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, it complements a variety of main courses.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs based on your preferences for variety.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vitamins and low in calories, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this delicious Italian Tomato Salad, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through the tomatoes, enhancing their presentation.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface prevents slips while slicing the tomatoes safely.
• Whisk: A whisk helps emulsify the marinade ingredients quickly for even distribution over the salad.
• Platter: Using a platter allows for an attractive presentation of your marinated tomato salad.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad), you’ll need the following ingredients:

Fresh Tomatoes

• 3 Beefsteak tomatoes (sliced 1/3 thick)

Marinade Ingredients

• 4 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1/2 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 3 Tablespoons minced Red Onion
• 4 large leaves fresh basil (finely diced)
• 1 Tablespoon diced fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic (crushed)
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• Fresh ground pepper

How to Make Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)

Creating a tantalizing Italian Tomato Salad is simple. Just follow these easy steps.

Step 1: Slice the Tomatoes

1. Slice the tomatoes into pieces about 1/3 of an inch thick.
2. Arrange them on a platter with a rim in a single layer for even marination.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
2. Olive oil
3. Red apple vinegar
4. Lemon juice
5. Minced red onion
6. Diced basil and parsley
7. Crushed garlic
8. Sea salt

Step 3: Marinate the Tomatoes

1. Pour the marinade evenly over the sliced tomatoes.
2. Ensure all slices are covered with marinade and that herbs and onion are spread out across the top of the tomatoes.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

1. Cover the platter and place it in the fridge.
2. Let it sit for at least one hour so that the tomatoes absorb all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Just before serving, garnish with fresh ground pepper.
2. Enjoy your refreshing Italian Tomato Salad as an appetizer or side dish!

How to Serve Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)

Italian Tomato Salad is a versatile dish that can complement many meals or stand alone as a refreshing side. Here are some creative ways to serve this vibrant salad.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a light and fresh appetizer. The marinated tomatoes burst with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or lamb for a delicious contrast. The acidity of the tomatoes enhances the savory flavors of the meat.

On Toast

• Serve the marinated tomatoes on toasted baguette slices for an easy bruschetta-style snack. Drizzle with extra olive oil for added richness.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling in a wrap with fresh greens and your choice of protein. It adds moisture and flavor, making each bite delightful.

With Pasta

• Toss the Italian Tomato Salad into warm pasta for an easy meal. The marinated tomatoes add freshness and depth to any pasta dish.

How to Perfect Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)

Creating the perfect Italian Tomato Salad is simple if you follow these tips to enhance flavor and presentation.

• Choose ripe tomatoes: Select firm, ripe beefsteak tomatoes for their juicy sweetness and vibrant color, which makes your salad visually appealing.
• Let it marinate: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This lets the tomatoes soak up all the delicious marinade flavors.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley elevate the taste significantly. Always opt for fresh over dried herbs when possible.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving! You might want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)

Italian Tomato Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can enhance your meal experience. Here are some top suggestions:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Tender pieces of chicken seasoned and grilled to perfection, providing a savory counterpart to the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa dish cooked with vegetables, adding texture and nutrition that complements the freshness of the tomato salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables – An assortment of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness, balancing well with acidic flavors.
4. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread serves as an excellent vehicle for scooping up leftover marinade from your plate while offering satisfying crunchiness.
5. Couscous Salad – A light couscous mix with cucumbers and lemon dressing adds fluffiness and brightness to your meal alongside the tomato salad.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, spices, and veggies provide heartiness that pairs well with the lightness of tomato salad.
7. Cucumber and Feta Salad – This cool combination of cucumbers, herbs, and feta cheese enhances your meal’s freshness while contrasting textures nicely with tomato salad.
8. Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that adds variety while soaking up flavors from both salads beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Tomato Salad, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Using unripe tomatoes: Always choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for vibrant colors and a slight give when gently squeezed.
• Skipping the marinating time: Allowing the salad to marinate for at least an hour enhances the flavors significantly. Don’t rush this important step!
• Over or under seasoning: Balance is key. Use sea salt and fresh ground pepper judiciously, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect seasoning.
• Chopping herbs too finely: While herbs should be diced, cutting them too small can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for a fine chop but maintain some size.
• Neglecting to mix well: Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the marinade. Toss gently but thoroughly for an even flavor distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• If storing leftovers, consider adding fresh herbs before serving.

Freezing Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)

• Not recommended for freezing as tomatoes can become mushy upon thawing.
• Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F; warm gently on a baking sheet covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, stirring frequently until just heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Tomato Salad that may help you perfect your dish.

What is Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)?

Italian Tomato Salad is a refreshing dish made with fresh sliced tomatoes marinated in olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. It’s perfect as a side dish or appetizer.

Can I add other vegetables to my Italian Tomato Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to include cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions for extra crunch and flavor.

How long should I marinate the tomatoes?

A minimum of one hour is ideal for marinating. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully into the tomatoes.

Is there a vegan option for this Italian Tomato Salad?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly since it uses plant-based ingredients without any animal products.

Final Thoughts

Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad) is a vibrant and delicious dish that showcases juicy tomatoes at their best. It’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. Try it as a refreshing side at your next meal!

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Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad)

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Italian Tomato Salad (Marinated Tomato Salad) is a vibrant and refreshing dish that highlights the rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a zesty marinade. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a flavorful side to any meal, this salad brings together juicy beefsteak tomatoes marinated in a delightful combination of olive oil, red apple vinegar, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. The result is a colorful and nutritious dish that not only looks great on the table but is also quick and easy to prepare. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, this Italian Tomato Salad is sure to impress your guests with its burst of flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 Beefsteak tomatoes
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons minced red onion
• 4 large leaves fresh basil (finely diced)
• 1 tablespoon diced fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic (crushed)
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• Fresh ground pepper

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Instructions

1. Slice the beefsteak tomatoes into 1/3-inch thick slices and arrange them on a rimmed platter.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, lemon juice, minced red onion, diced herbs, crushed garlic, sea salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the marinade over the sliced tomatoes ensuring even coverage.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh ground pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg