Recipe: Marinated Tomatoes with Green Onions

Recipe: Marinated Tomatoes with Green Onions

Marinated tomatoes with green onions are a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the tanginess of marinated tomatoes and the crisp freshness of green onions. This recipe is perfect for adding a zesty twist to your meals or enjoying as a snack on its own. The marination process infuses the tomatoes with rich flavors, making them a delightful accompaniment to any meal.

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish at a barbecue or pairing them with a salad, these marinated tomatoes with green onions are sure to be a hit. The best part is that they’re easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 bunch of green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, like basil or parsley)

Equipment:

• Jar or airtight container
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the Tomatoes
   Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them into wedges or rounds, depending on your preference. You can remove the seeds if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving them in adds more flavor.

2. Chop the Green Onions
   Wash and chop the green onions into small pieces, making sure to use both the green and white parts for added flavor.

3. Mince the Garlic
   Peel and mince the garlic cloves finely. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. Combine the Liquids
   In a mixing bowl, combine the white vinegar, water, olive oil, sugar, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and salt. This marinade will give the tomatoes a tangy and savory flavor.

2. Add the Oregano (Optional)
   If you like a bit of extra flavor, add the dried oregano to the marinade. This herb complements the tomatoes and green onions beautifully, but it’s optional if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.

Step 3: Marinate the Tomatoes

1. Layer the Tomatoes and Green Onions
   Place the sliced tomatoes and chopped green onions into a jar or airtight container. Layer them to ensure the marinade will coat every piece evenly.

2. Pour the Marinade Over the Tomatoes
   Once the tomatoes and onions are arranged in the jar, pour the marinade over the top. Make sure all the tomatoes are submerged in the liquid. If needed, gently press the tomatoes down to fit more tightly in the jar.

3. Seal the Jar
   Close the jar tightly and shake gently to ensure the marinade is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Refrigerate and Serve

1. Chill the Tomatoes
   Place the jar in the refrigerator and allow the tomatoes to marinate for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. The longer the tomatoes marinate, the more intense the flavors will be.

2. Serve
   Once marinated, serve the tomatoes as a side dish, snack, or topping for salads, sandwiches, or even pasta dishes. The combination of the tangy tomatoes, savory garlic, and fresh green onions makes for a refreshing and delicious treat.

Tips and Variations

1. Add Spices
   If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced chili pepper to the marinade. This will give your marinated tomatoes a subtle heat that complements the tanginess of the vinegar.

2. Make It Sweet
   For a sweeter version, increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons or add a drizzle of honey. This will give the tomatoes a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

3. Use Fresh Herbs
   Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme for additional flavor. You can add these herbs directly into the jar, or sprinkle them on top when serving.

4. Try Other Vegetables
   This marinade works well with other vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or even carrots. Feel free to experiment by adding other veggies to your jar.

Health Benefits

1. Tomatoes
   Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium.

2. Green Onions
   Green onions (also known as scallions) are low in calories and rich in vitamin K, which supports bone health. They also contain antioxidants that promote immune health.

3. Olive Oil
   Olive oil is high in healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. It also contains antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress.

Conclusion

Marinated tomatoes with green onions are a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tangy, savory marinade combined with the fresh crunch of green onions creates a delightful flavor that pairs well with a wide variety of meals. Whether served as a side dish, snack, or topping, these marinated tomatoes will add a burst of freshness and flavor to your table.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and fresh in every bite!