Marinated cherry tomatoes with balsamic vinegar are like a summer garden party in your mouth. Picture this: juicy, sun-kissed tomatoes bathed in a rich, tangy balsamic marinade that dances on your taste buds. great side dish for barbecues It’s a sensory experience that combines sweetness and acidity, with a splash of vibrant color that could make rainbows jealous.
Every time I whip up marinated cherry tomatoes with balsamic vinegar, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s backyard, where we’d feast on fresh veggies right from the vine. The laughter, the aroma of herbs wafting through the air, and those delightful bites of tomato goodness always made me feel at home. tasty avocado toast variation perfect salad dressing This recipe is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even just as a snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Trust me; it’s an explosion of flavor you won’t want to miss!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The marinated cherry tomatoes with balsamic vinegar are incredibly easy to make and require minimal prep time
- Their sweet-tart flavor profile makes them irresistible and a great addition to any dish
- The vibrant colors elevate any meal presentation, making it visually stunning
- These tomatoes are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or as toppings for salads, sandwiches, or even pasta dishes
I remember making marinated cherry tomatoes with my best friend during one lazy summer afternoon. We ended up eating the whole batch before dinner even started!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose firm and bright ones; these little gems are the stars of the show.
Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for high-quality aged balsamic for deeper flavor; it brings out the sweetness in the tomatoes.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness; it balances beautifully with the acidity.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Adding fragrant basil enhances the flavor and provides a pop of color.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key; use good sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for depth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all your ingredients on a clean workspace, ensuring everything is fresh and ready for action.
Prep the Tomatoes: Rinse your cherry tomatoes under cold water and pat them dry gently with a paper towel. Inspect them closely; any bruised ones won’t be invited to this party.
Create the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar and olive oil—about two tablespoons of each should do nicely. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to awaken those flavors. For more inspiration, check out this creamy chicken marsala pasta recipe.
Add Flavorful Herbs: Tear fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and toss them into the bowl with the marinade. This step infuses lovely herbal notes into your mixture.
Toss It All Together: Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes until they’re well-coated in that beautiful balsamic mixture. Make sure every little tomato gets its fair share!
Chill Before Serving: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into an airtight container. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this allows flavors to mingle beautifully.
And there you have it! Marinated cherry tomatoes with balsamic vinegar are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. add flavor to your salads Enjoy them as an appetizer or toss them into salads or pastas for an added burst of flavor!
You Must Know
- Marinated cherry tomatoes with balsamic vinegar are a delightful way to elevate any dish
- Their vibrant colors and sweet-tangy flavor can transform a simple salad or pasta into a gourmet experience
- They also make for perfect snacks on their own!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your cherry tomatoes for at least 30 minutes to enhance their flavor. Then, serve them chilled or at room temperature for the best taste experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your marinade by adding herbs like basil or oregano, or even some garlic for an extra kick. Experimenting is key! For more inspiration, check out this savory garlic cauliflower recipe recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store marinated cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. No reheating needed; enjoy them cold!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for optimal flavor; they’re sweeter and juicier than older varieties
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor infusion if time allows
- Pair with fresh mozzarella for a delicious caprese twist that will impress your guests
One summer, I made marinated cherry tomatoes for a picnic, and everyone kept asking for the recipe. It was such a hit that I ended up giving it away multiple times!
FAQ
How long should I marinate cherry tomatoes with balsamic vinegar?
Marinate cherry tomatoes for at least 30 minutes to achieve maximum flavor absorption.
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine or apple cider vinegar if desired.
What dishes pair well with marinated cherry tomatoes?
They complement salads, pastas, bruschetta, and even grilled meats beautifully!
Marinated Cherry Tomatoes with Balsamic Vinegar
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Elevate your summer gatherings with these marinated cherry tomatoes, bursting with flavor and freshness. Juicy cherry tomatoes are soaked in a tangy balsamic marinade, creating a delightful sweet-tart experience that pairs beautifully with salads, sandwiches, or as a standalone snack. Perfect for picnics or barbecues, this dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also adds a vibrant touch to any meal presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (about 300g)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 10 fresh basil leaves, torn
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water and pat them dry.
- In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar and olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
- Add torn basil leaves to the marinade and stir gently.
- Fold in the cherry tomatoes until well coated.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 68
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 4mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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