I still remember the first time my Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato recipe saved dinner on a busy weeknight. It was one of those days when I had nothing planned, and the fridge looked a bit bare. But with just a handful of Mediterranean diet ingredients—cherry tomatoes, olives, some olive oil, and a few fresh herbs—I pulled together a dish that tasted fresh, vibrant, and so satisfying. My family was genuinely surprised at how such simple ingredients came together so beautifully. Since then, this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato recipe has become a reliable go-to in my home cooking.
If you’re anything like me, juggling dinners and life on the fly, this dish fits right into real home cooking. It’s perfect when you want something quick, flavorful, and that hits that crave-worthy spot without a fuss. What I love most about this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato is how it embraces straightforward ingredients that you can find just about anywhere. Plus, it’s a great way to infuse your meals with Mediterranean cooking’s wholesome vibes.
This recipe isn’t just for special occasions either. It’s a great example of how olive oil cherry tomato recipes bring out the best in simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a fresh Mediterranean appetizer or a salad that’s easy to throw together, this dish has you covered. And if you enjoy Mediterranean appetizers, or like me, you appreciate recipes that make you feel like you’re sitting at a sunny terrace in the Mediterranean, this one’s especially worth trying.
I’m excited to share this dependable Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato with you—my fellow home cooks. It’s a dish you can count on, every time. Let’s get cooking together and add this recipe to your rotation for easy, tasty meals that won’t let you down.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (sweet and juicy is best, but any variety will work for this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato)
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (you can swap in green olives if that’s what you have on hand—both work well here)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (the key Mediterranean diet ingredient that makes this dish shine)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (adds just enough tang, but if you don’t have it, a squeeze of lemon works in this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (gives a subtle kick without overpowering)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or sprinkle in some fresh herbs if you have them)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
If you’re worried about sourcing Kalamata olives, you’ll find them in the regular grocery aisle near the pickles and preserved veggies. Cherry tomatoes are usually pretty budget-friendly, especially when in season. This Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato uses ingredients you probably have on hand, so it’s great for the pantry-conscious cook. For prep shortcuts, mixing this salad right in a big bowl saves dishes later.
If you have leftovers, store them covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Though, honestly, this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato is best fresh. A little tip: I like adding a bit more olive oil just before serving to keep everything glossy and flavorful.
Let’s Make It Together:
- Start by rinsing your cherry tomatoes and slicing them in half. This step is quick but important to help the tomatoes soak up the flavors in your Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato.
- Pit and slice the olives—if they’re pre-pitted, you’re already halfway there. While slicing, take a moment to smell the olives. Their salty aroma is a sign of delicious Mediterranean cooking to come.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes and olives. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. That garlic adds a subtle layer that really makes this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato pop.
- Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the mixture, followed by the balsamic vinegar. Stir gently to mix all those lovely flavors. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing right about now.
- Give the salad a quick taste. Adjust salt, pepper, or a splash more olive oil if it needs a little extra love. I’ve made this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato many times and sometimes the vinegar gets adjusted depending on how sweet your tomatoes are.
- If you want, let your Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato sit for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature before serving. This lets the flavors blend beautifully. While it rests, you can set the table or prepare a simple side like some crusty bread.
From start to finish, this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato takes about 20 minutes or less. It’s perfect for when you want a good, dependable dish without fuss. And if your salad looks a little different each time, don’t worry—that’s just the natural beauty of fresh Mediterranean diet ingredients.
Quick kitchen tip: If you’re pressed for time, toss everything together and eat it immediately. It’s still full of flavors but letting it sit really turns this olive and cherry tomato salad into something special.
How to Serve & Enjoy:
This Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato shines as a starter on its own or paired with something simple like grilled chicken or fish. I often serve it next to warm pita bread or a light pasta to balance the fresh, tangy flavors. It’s one of those versatile Mediterranean olive oil cherry tomato recipes that feel at home on any table.
For a casual lunch, I love turning this dish into a filling wrap with some crumbled feta and leafy greens. It also works fantastic when you’re pulling together Mediterranean appetizers for a small get-together. Its vibrant colors and bright flavors never fail to impress guests without demanding time or fuss.
Leftovers? They’re great tossed with some cooked grain like quinoa or bulgur for a quick salad the next day. You can even mix in some canned beans as suggested in that fun Facebook group post about Mediterranean dishes with beans—your choice for extra protein.
Seasonally, in the summer, I add fresh basil from the garden to my Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato, while in cooler months, I swap in dried herbs and a little more olive oil to keep it hearty. My friends and family always ask for this dish when they come over because it tastes like a little sunshine, no matter the time of year.
If you love this, your family might also enjoy my Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo for a heartier meal or the cozy Tomato Basil Noodle Soup on chillier nights.
Your Questions Answered:
Can I make this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. The flavors meld nicely overnight, but if you add fresh herbs, keep those separate until right before serving.
What’s a good substitute for Kalamata olives in this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato?
Green olives or Castelvetrano olives are excellent swaps. They offer a slightly different flavor but still keep that olive oil cherry tomato recipe vibe.
How do I adjust this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato for more or fewer people?
It scales beautifully! Just multiply or divide the ingredients. For bigger groups, I usually double everything and serve it family-style.
Can I bake the tomatoes instead of serving this as a salad?
Definitely! Baked cherry tomatoes and feta dishes like this one on Lemon & Olives remind me how roasting brings out deep sweetness in tomatoes while keeping it Mediterranean at heart. Try baking your tomatoes with a bit of olive oil and herbs for a warm twist.
Is this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan. Just watch out for any optional add-ons like feta cheese if you choose to include it.
How long does this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato keep in the fridge?
About 2 days is best. After that, the tomatoes and olives start to lose their freshness. I recommend making just enough for a couple of meals unless you plan on reheating creatively.
Can I add other vegetables to this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato?
Sure! Cucumbers, red onion slices, or even bell peppers can add crunch and color. Just keep in mind it will change texture a bit but still honors the Mediterranean diet ingredients spirit.
For more Mediterranean appetizer ideas, OliveTomato.com has some authentic baked feta and tomato recipes worth trying too.
Final Thoughts:
This Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato has a special spot in my recipe collection because it proves that simple ingredients can deliver a crowd-pleasing, vibrant dish every time. It’s a recipe that fits into busy weeknights, casual dinners, or when you want to impress friends without lots of prep.
My Best Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato Tips:
- Use the best quality olive oil you can find—it really makes a difference.
- Let the salad rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.
- Don’t be afraid to tweak the vinegar and herbs depending on your taste and season.
I’ve tested versions with fresh herbs, with a little crumbled feta, and even tossed in cold pasta to stretch it into a main course. The version everyone asks for most is the classic olive and cherry tomato salad with plenty of good olive oil and just the right touch of vinegar.
I encourage you to make this Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato your own. Play with the ingredients, serve it your way, and share it around your table. I hope you love its fresh, bright flavors as much as my family does. Cooking this dependable dish offers simple satisfaction and a little taste of the Mediterranean right in your kitchen.
If you want more great dinner ideas, do check out my posts on Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo and Tomato Basil Noodle Soup. You might also like the baked cherry tomatoes and feta recipes at Lemon & Olives or OliveTomato.com for a warm twist.
Here’s to tasty meals made with care and a little Mediterranean magic in your kitchen!
Mediterranean Olive Cherry Tomato
A refreshing Mediterranean salad combining the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the briny flavor of olives, perfect as a light appetizer or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mixed Mediterranean olives (kalamata, green), pitted and sliced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes and sliced olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the tomato and olive mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
For added texture, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts on top before serving.