One Simple Thing
Because sometimes, a single good idea is all you need.
As June stretches into long evenings and warm breezes, I’ve been relying on recipes that require little effort— just good ingredients and a little time.
This week’s One Simple Thing is something that lives on my counter or in my fridge all summer long: This week’s “One Simple Thing” is something I’ve been keeping in my fridge on repeat lately—marinated summer tomatoes.
🍅 Marinated Summer Tomatoes
Not really a recipe, and yet—magical. A handful of ripe tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, a splash of vinegar or lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Add some herbs like a sprig of thyme, oregano, or fresh basil if you have them. Garlic, if you like.
Let them sit. That’s it. The longer they rest, the more vibrant and juicy they become.
They’re not fussy. Just sliced or halved tomatoes. The kind of recipe that’s more about instinct than instructions.
Let them sit for 2-3 hours at minimum, covered in the fridge, and they’ll reward you by growing more flavorful by the hour. Make in small batches with fresh tomatoes (like sliced beefsteak) or halved cherry tomatoes, as I’m doing today.
Ways I Use Marinated Tomatoes:
Spooned over thick toast with a crumble of feta or goat cheese
With Avocado Toast
Tossed into pasta with fresh basil and grated Parmesan
Tucked into grain bowls with chickpeas or grilled chicken
Spooned over grilled chicken or shrimp
Layered with mozzarella or burrata for a no-fuss summer starter
Or simply eaten, straight from the bowl (or jar)
It’s one simple thing… but it makes everything taste more like summer.
If you make them, I’d love to hear how you use them—and if you’d like to see more of these weekly “One Simple Thing” posts going forward, let me know below!
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P.S. If tomatoes are on your mind too…
Here are a few more reader favorites from the 31Daily summer kitchen:
– World’s Best Pasta Sauce – Slow-simmered and simply delicious
– Quick Roasted Tomatoes with Herbs – Enhances tomato’s natural sweetness
– Classically French Tian Provençal – The easiest summer appetizer
Here’s to the simple things,
Stephanie