Name: Marinated Tomato Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 4 large ripe tomatoes hard to the touch; 2 garlic cloves pressed; 1/4 small white onion finely diced (or red or yellow); 1/2 small bunch fresh dill basil, parsley, or cilantro; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Kosher salt and black pepper to taste

This Marinated Tomato Salad is a celebration of summer produce—juicy, firm tomatoes bathed in a garlic-herb vinaigrette with a touch of honey.

It’s incredibly simple to make, yet the flavors are bold, bright, and deeply satisfying.

Whether you serve it as a side dish or spoon it over crusty bread, this chilled tomato salad is a warm-weather favorite you’ll make on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with fresh seasonal flavor

Easy to prepare in under 15 minutes

Marinated for extra depth and complexity

Naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly

A stunning side dish for summer meals

Ingredient Highlights

Ripe tomatoes: Use firm, just-ripe tomatoes for best texture and flavor

Garlic: Pressed or finely chopped, it adds bold savory notes

Onion: White, red, or yellow onion offers a mild bite

Fresh herbs: Dill, basil, parsley, or cilantro bring an aromatic lift

Olive oil: Use good quality extra-virgin olive oil for richness

Balsamic vinegar: Adds tang and depth

Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the acidity

Kosher salt & black pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance every element

Pro Tips Before You Start

Choose tomatoes that are firm but ripe—not mushy or underripe

Slice all tomatoes evenly to ensure they marinate consistently

Use fresh herbs (not dried) for the best flavor and presentation

Chill the salad at least 1 hour to let flavors meld

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving

How to Make Marinated Tomato Salad

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Slice the tomatoes into 1/3-inch thick rounds.

Finely chop the garlic, onion, and fresh herbs of your choice (dill, basil, parsley, or cilantro).

Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine chopped garlic, onion, herbs, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey.

Stir well to create a fragrant vinaigrette.

Step 3: Arrange the Tomatoes
Lay the sliced tomatoes in a shallow dish or platter.

Season with Kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Marinate
Spoon the garlic-herb marinade evenly over the tomatoes.

Cover the platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 5: Serve
Remove from the fridge, let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, then serve chilled.

Pair with grilled meats, fresh mozzarella, or toasted bread.

What to Serve It With

Grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp

Crusty bread or garlic toast

Fresh mozzarella or burrata

Couscous, quinoa, or lentil bowls

Part of an antipasto spread

Variations & Substitutions

Use cherry or heirloom tomatoes for variety

Swap honey for maple syrup or agave

Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness

Include thinly sliced cucumbers or radishes

Sprinkle with feta or shaved parmesan for extra richness

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days

Best served cold or at room temperature

Do not freeze—tomatoes will lose texture

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor and appearance.

Dried herbs won’t offer the same freshness.

Is this salad vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better after marinating for a few hours in the fridge.

What type of tomatoes work best?
Any firm, ripe tomatoes—Roma, vine-ripened, heirloom—just make sure they’re not too soft.

Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Try crumbled feta, mozzarella balls, or even blue cheese for a flavor boost.

Is this salad good for meal prep?
It’s best eaten fresh, but can be prepped in advance and enjoyed within 1–2 days.

Does this salad need to be tossed?
No need to toss—simply spoon the marinade over and let the flavors soak in.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about juicy tomatoes soaking in a garlicky herb marinade—it’s simple, rustic, and perfect for sunny days.

I always come back to this Marinated Tomato Salad when I want a fresh, easy dish that feels elegant and effortless.