Herbed Tomatoes
Herbed Tomatoes are a fresh, flavorful dish featuring ripe tomatoes infused with herbs and vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches, salads, or side dishes in Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the tomatoes and cut them crosswise in half.
- Place the tomatoes in a deep bowl, sprinkling each layer with salt, black pepper, and herbs (parsley, chives, tarragon vinegar).
- Combine salad oil and tarragon vinegar and pour over the tomatoes.
- Cover and chill for an hour or more, basting often.
- Drain the tomatoes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use ripe, seasonal tomatoes. If you can't find fresh chives, green onions can make a suitable substitute. To enhance the taste, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. This dish can also be served warm, making it a versatile side. Pairing it with a crusty bread will elevate the experience, perfect for enjoying with Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These herbed tomatoes are delightful served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They also make a refreshing topping for bruschetta or can be blended into a salad for a burst of flavor. Pair with Zesty Salad or serve as part of a light lunch with Homemade Hummus for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to preserve the tomatoes' texture, or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may make the tomatoes mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Tomatoes contains roughly 68 calories, with 5g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 640mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
While fresh tomatoes are recommended for their flavor and texture, canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch. Choose whole canned tomatoes and drain them well before proceeding with the recipe. However, the dish's freshness will be enhanced with ripe, seasonal tomatoes.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it contains no animal products. Ensure that the salad oil and vinegar used are also free from any animal-derived ingredients. Enjoy it as a light, healthy dish that complements a variety of vegan recipes.
What other herbs can I use in this dish?
Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or dill to customize the flavor profile. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preference, and consider combining different herbs for a unique twist that suits your palate.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).