Step 1

First marinated the tomatoes. Quarter your cherry tomatoes and mince garlic. Using the flat side of your knife, smash peeled garlic and mince into a paste. Season with a pinch of salt and add to a bowl with your veggies.

Step 2

Add olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, basil, Italian seasoning, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix to coat the tomatoes and allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes (or longer if needed/desired), sitring occasionally. Feel free to adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3

Let's get our salad on! Toss together marinated tomatoes (along with the marinade -- hello DIY dressing!) lettuce, and optional croutons. Craving cheese? Feta, Parmesan, and Mozzarella cheese all make fantastic salad toppers here! Have fun with it and add all your favorite salad mix-ins!