Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Marinated Roma Tomatoes?
They are ripe Roma tomatoes infused with garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, lemon juice, and fragrant herbs like basil or oregano.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need 5 Roma tomatoes, 1-2 garlic cloves, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried basil or oregano, and the juice of one lemon.
How should I prepare the Roma tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be washed and sliced according to your preference, either thin or thick.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use finely chopped fresh basil or oregano; use slightly less than the amount of dried herbs called for.
Should I use both basil and oregano?
No, the recipe recommends using either basil or oregano, but not both at the same time.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for 1 to 2 minced garlic cloves depending on your flavor preference.
What type of olive oil is best?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor profile.
How long should the tomatoes marinate?
They should sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Why do the tomatoes need to sit in the salt?
The salt draws out the natural juices from the tomatoes, which creates a flavorful dressing when combined with the oil and lemon.
Should I stir the tomatoes while they marinate?
Yes, stirring occasionally ensures that all tomato slices are evenly coated and marinated.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, you should taste the mixture occasionally and add more salt or herbs to fit your personal palate.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 42 calories.
What is the fat content of this dish?
There is approximately 2.5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content?
This recipe provides 1 gram of protein per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a Caprese salad?
Yes, you can layer these marinated tomatoes with buffalo mozzarella for a classic Caprese flavor.
Can I use these tomatoes for bruschetta?
Yes, they make an excellent topping for grilled bruschetta.
How can I use the leftover marinade for chicken?
You can marinate sliced chicken breasts in the leftover liquid overnight and then grill them.
Can I use this recipe to make pasta?
Yes, you can boil the marinade and tomatoes in a skillet for 1-2 minutes and then toss with cooked penne pasta.
How do I refresh the marinade for a new batch?
Simply add more fresh sliced tomatoes to the leftover marinade and let them sit for about 20 minutes.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
It is typically served at room temperature or chilled as a fresh salad or side dish.
Do I need a separate salad dressing?
No, these tomatoes can be served atop a green salad without needing additional dressing because of the marinade.
Is the lemon juice essential?
The lemon juice provides the necessary acidity to balance the olive oil and highlight the tomato flavors.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 primary ingredients in this recipe.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe, featuring fresh vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes, allowing it to sit for at least 30 minutes is required, and it can be prepared shortly before a meal.
What are common tags for this recipe?
Common tags include caprese salad, marinated tomatoes, italian recipe, and fresh salad.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe specifically recommends Roma tomatoes for their texture and flavor.
Is there any cholesterol in this dish?
Based on the nutritional data provided, the cholesterol content is not listed, but the ingredients are naturally cholesterol-free.
What is the serving size?
The specific serving size is not specified, but the recipe uses 5 tomatoes for the total yield.