Dessert

Marinated Tomatoes with Herbs and Balsamic Recipe

Name: Marinated Tomatoes with Herbs and Balsamic Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: PT-492789H47M17S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound grape or cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 to 2 cloves garlic, grated; 1 tablespoon finely chopped basil; 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme; Dash of crushed red pepper flakes; Kosher salt, to taste

ByJack Voss March 20, 2026March 20, 2026

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Introduction

Marinated tomatoes are a simple and flavorful dish perfect for a quick snack or a vibrant addition to salads and appetizers. This recipe combines fresh herbs, garlic, and tangy vinegars to bring out the natural sweetness of grape or cherry tomatoes.

A bowl filled with a colorful mix of halved cherry tomatoes in red, yellow, and dark purple shades, all coated in a glossy herb dressing sprinkled with small green leaves and bits of seasoning. The bowl is white with rope handles on each side. Around the bowl, there are golden grilled bread slices with clear grill marks, a wooden bowl holding fresh herbs and garlic cloves, a glass jar of olive oil, and a pink drink with lemon slices, all set on a white marbled surface. A wooden spoon rests inside the tomato mix in the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 to 2 cloves garlic, grated
1 tablespoon finely chopped basil
1/2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme
Dash of crushed red pepper flakes
Kosher salt, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, olive oil, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, grated garlic, basil, parsley, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Stir gently until all ingredients are well mixed.
Step 2: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir the tomatoes once or twice while marinating. If marinating for longer than 2 hours, place the bowl in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Mix in some finely chopped red onion or shallot for added depth.
For a sweeter marinade, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup.
Serve chilled or at room temperature depending on preference.

Storage

Store marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. Avoid storing them for too long to maintain the tomatoes’ fresh texture.

How to Serve

A rustic deep round bowl filled with a colorful mix of halved cherry tomatoes in red, yellow, and dark purple shades, all coated with a shiny green herb dressing. The top layer includes visible fresh green basil leaves and finely chopped herbs, while a wooden spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. Surrounding the bowl are golden grilled bread slices with crisp grill marks and a small white bowl on the upper right holding fresh thyme sprigs and garlic cloves. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface with a pink drink with lemon slices at the top left and a glass of yellow liquid next to the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute grape or cherry tomatoes with small Roma or plum tomatoes, but be sure to cut them into smaller pieces to help them marinate evenly.

How long can I marinate the tomatoes?

For best taste, marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can leave them up to 2 hours at room temperature, but if you want to marinate longer, refrigerate them after 2 hours to keep them fresh.