Marinated Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

This marinated cherry tomatoes recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes. Combined with fresh parsley, minced garlic, and your favorite Italian dressing, these tangy and herbaceous tomatoes are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or salad topping. Ready in just 10 minutes of prep and enhanced with hours of marination, these marinated tomatoes are bursting with flavor. Ideal for summer BBQs, potlucks, or a healthy snack, this recipe is simple, versatile, and incredibly refreshing!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs cherry tomatoes*
• 1/2 bunch fresh parsley (about 1/2 cup finely chopped)
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2–2 cups light Italian dressing

---

Instructions

1. Rinse the cherry tomatoes thoroughly and cut them in half.
2. Place the halved tomatoes into a large glass mixing bowl or a quart-sized glass jar with a lid.
3. Add the chopped parsley and minced garlic to the tomatoes.
4. Pour 1 1/2 to 2 cups of Italian dressing over the tomato mixture, just enough to barely cover the tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cover the bowl or seal the jar and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 2–4 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For even more flavor, refrigerate the marinated tomatoes overnight.
6. Before serving, give the tomatoes a gentle stir. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

---

Tips

• Tomato Selection: Use sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Grape tomatoes can be substituted if cherry tomatoes aren’t available.
• Marinating Time: For the richest flavor, marinate the tomatoes overnight in the refrigerator.
• Dressings: Choose a high-quality Italian dressing for optimal flavor. Homemade Italian dressing works beautifully if you prefer to make it from scratch.
• Storage: Store marinated tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Variations and Substitutions

• Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh basil, dill, or cilantro to change the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Add roasted garlic instead of raw for a milder, sweeter taste.
• Dressing Options: Try balsamic vinaigrette, red wine vinaigrette, or lemon-herb dressing as an alternative to Italian dressing.
• Additions: Enhance the dish with ingredients like diced mozzarella, olives, or capers for extra texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of tomato? Yes, you can use grape tomatoes or even diced Roma tomatoes if cherry tomatoes aren’t available. Ensure the pieces are bite-sized for even marinating.
• How long can I store marinated tomatoes? Marinated cherry tomatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.
• Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh? Fresh parsley is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried parsley in a pinch—just reduce the amount to 1–2 tablespoons.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Serve these marinated cherry tomatoes as a refreshing side for grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables.
• Appetizer: Pair with crackers, crostini, or toasted baguette slices for a quick and easy appetizer.
• Salads: Toss the marinated tomatoes into mixed greens, pasta salad, or quinoa for added flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Marinated Cherry Tomatoes recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, zesty Italian dressing, fresh herbs, and garlic creates a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and enhances any meal with its vibrant, tangy taste. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!