Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a burst of fresh flavors? Look no further than our Marinated Tomatoes with Spinach! This vibrant Italian-inspired dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing treat for your taste buds. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this refreshing side that combines juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp spinach, all enveloped in a savory balsamic marinade. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal, this recipe will leave your guests asking for seconds. Dive into the details and discover how to create this delightful dish that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Carefully slice each cherry tomato in half using a sharp knife, ensuring even and clean cuts.
- Rinse the fresh spinach leaves and gently pat them dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended and create a smooth marinade.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the marinade and gently toss to ensure each tomato is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Let the tomatoes marinate at room temperature for approximately 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and infuse.
- Place the fresh spinach leaves on a serving platter or individual plates as a base.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the marinated tomatoes from the bowl and arrange them over the spinach leaves.
- Drizzle any remaining marinade over the tomatoes and spinach for additional flavor.
- Serve immediately at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light salad.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for tomatoes that are firm and vibrant in color.
- Marinating Time: Allow the tomatoes to marinate for at least 5-7 minutes, but if you have time, letting them sit for 15-30 minutes can enhance the flavors even more.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach for the best texture and taste. If you can, buy organic spinach to avoid pesticides.
- Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to add your favorite herbs, like fresh basil or thyme, for an extra layer of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick!
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a light appetizer with crusty bread to soak up the delicious marinade.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within a day or two for the best quality.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
