If you’re looking for a bright, fresh marinade that instantly brings summer flavors to your table, this Fresh Mint & Tomato Marinade is one to keep on hand. The combination of sweet crushed tomatoes, fragrant mint, fresh garlic, and rich extra virgin olive oil creates a versatile marinade that’s equally delicious with chicken, lamb, pork, seafood, or even grilled vegetables.
The fresh herbs and garlic infuse every bite with bold Mediterranean-inspired flavor while the tomatoes help keep meats tender and juicy. Make a batch ahead of time and let your favorite protein soak up all that fresh goodness before grilling or roasting.
Allow enough marinating time so the herbs and garlic can fully infuse the meat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh, vibrant flavors
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for grilling season
- Great for chicken, lamb, pork, seafood, or vegetables
- Easy to prepare in just minutes
Ingredients
- 1 large can crushed tomatoes
- 1 whole head garlic, peeled
- 1 large handful fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup water (more if needed for desired consistency)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Place the garlic, mint, salt, and pepper into a food processor, blender, or mortar and pestle. Blend or crush until a fragrant paste forms.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and water. Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Pour the marinade over your favorite meat or vegetables, coating evenly.
- Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
- Cook as desired by grilling, roasting, or pan-searing.
Serving Ideas
This marinade pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled chicken breasts
- Lamb chops
- Pork tenderloin
- Shrimp or firm white fish
- Grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers
- Warm crusty bread served alongside grilled meats
Tips for Success
- Use fresh mint for the brightest flavor.
- Allow enough marinating time so the herbs and garlic can fully infuse the meat.
- Reserve a small portion of the marinade before adding raw meat if you’d like to use it as a finishing sauce.
Try These Flavor Variations
Fresh Mint & Tomato Marinade
This version is perfect for lamb, chicken, and grilled vegetables.
Puree together:
- Crushed tomatoes
- Fresh mint
- Garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil
- A dash of vinegar of choice
Lemon Herb Marinade
This lighter marinade is excellent for seafood, chicken, and fresh summer vegetables.
Blend together:
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh parsley
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
Storage
Store unused marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If it has been used with raw meat, discard any remaining marinade after cooking.
Fresh Mint & Tomato Marinade
Ingredients
- 1 large can crushed tomatoes
- 1 head garlic, peeled
- 1 large handful fresh mint
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Dash of vinegar of choice
- ¼ cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Blend or crush the garlic, mint, salt, and pepper into a paste.
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Add the tomatoes, olive oil, and water.
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Blend until smooth.
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Pour over meat or vegetables and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
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Cook by grilling, roasting, or pan-searing until done.
