Grilled Tomatoes
Juicy, smoky, and slightly sweet, these grilled tomatoes are the perfect summer side dish. A hint of garlic and herbs brings out their natural flavor, making them a simple yet elegant addition to any barbecue.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 375-450°F (190-230°C)
- a.Clean the grates thoroughly and lightly oil them with a high-smoke-point oil to prevent sticking.
- 2
Wash the tomatoes and slice them in half horizontally
- a.In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Brush the herb oil mixture generously over the cut sides of each tomato half.
- 4
Place the tomato halves cut-side down directly on the preheated grill grates
- a.Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until you see distinct grill marks and the tomatoes begin to soften.
- 5
Using tongs, carefully flip the tomatoes
- a.Grill for another 3-4 minutes on the skin side until they are tender and heated through, but still hold their shape.
- 6
Remove the tomatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter
- a.Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose firm, ripe tomatoes. Overly soft tomatoes will become mushy and fall apart on the grill.
- 2For smaller tomatoes like cherry or grape, skewer them or use a grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates.
- 3Do not press down on the tomatoes while grilling, as this will release their juices and make them dry.
- 4Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the tomatoes from sticking.
- 5Leftovers are delicious chopped and added to salads, pasta sauces, or omelets.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheesy
In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the cut side of the tomatoes with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese and let it melt slightly.
Balsamic GlazeBalsamic Glaze
After grilling, drizzle the tomatoes with a quality balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
SpicySpicy
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture for a gentle kick of heat.
HerbaceousHerbaceous
Substitute oregano with other herbs like fresh thyme, rosemary, or a mix of Italian herbs.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lycopene
Tomatoes are one of the best natural sources of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases. Cooking tomatoes, as in grilling, can make lycopene more available for your body to absorb.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The use of extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Low-Calorie & Hydrating
Tomatoes are naturally low in calories and high in water content, making this dish a light, hydrating, and flavorful side that won't weigh you down.
Boosts Vitamin Intake
This simple dish is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, which are essential for a strong immune system, healthy skin, and good vision.
Frequently asked questions
Firm, fleshy tomatoes work best as they hold their shape well. Roma, Beefsteak, and on-the-vine tomatoes are excellent choices. Avoid overly ripe or soft tomatoes.