Endlessly Adaptable Grilled Tomatoes
Look for firm but ripe beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes to risk them falling apart on the grill.
Serves4
Prep5 minutes
Cook4 minutes
If you have never grilled tomatoes before, you are in for a treat. They can be made quickly before you start grilling your main dish for a mouthwatering summer appetizer, or you can throw them on the grill while your grilled meats are resting for a quick seasonal side dish. Grilling them not only highlights the beauty of this summer produce, but it also captures the incredible flavor that comes from the grill.
With so few ingredients, be sure to choose the very best. This is the time to reach for your favorite high-quality olive oil and those fancy Maldon sea salt flakes. Along with some freshly ground black pepper and your favorite fresh herbs (I love oregano here), you have an effortless dish you will keep coming back to all summer long.
What Do Grilled Tomatoes Taste Like?
Grilled tomatoes taste like the perfect combination of the garden-fresh flavors of summer with the smoky char that comes from outdoor grilling.
How Long Should Tomatoes Be Cooked?
Grilled tomatoes should be cooked for about 4 minutes with the cut-side down over direct heat on a grill. The time will vary depending on the ripeness of the tomato, so watch them carefully. You want to grill the tomatoes long enough that they soften slightly, but not so long that they become mushy. Remember that firmer tomatoes hold up better to the grilling process than ones that are on the riper side.
How to Serve Grilled Tomatoes
Grilled tomatoes can be served as an appetizer or side dish to accompany your favorite grilled fare. This recipe calls for fresh oregano, but feel free to substitute basil, thyme, or your choice fresh herbs. Or add sliced fresh mozzarella and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a caprese-style twist on grilled tomatoes.
Grilled Tomatoes Recipe
Look for firm but ripe beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes to risk them falling apart on the grill.
Prep time 5 minutes
Cook time 4 minutes
Serves 4
Nutritional Info
Ingredients
- 4
firm beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon
olive oil, plus more for finishing
- 1 tablespoon
fresh oregano leaves
- 1 teaspoon
flaky salt, or 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon
freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Heat an outdoor grill for direct, high heat. Meanwhile, cut 4 beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes horizontally in half, leaving the stem on one side, and gently scoop out the watery pulp and seeds.
When the grill is ready, scrape the grill grates clean if needed. Brush or drizzle the cut side of the tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Place the tomatoes cut-side down on the grill. Grill uncovered until the tomatoes have softened slightly and grill marks form on the bottom, about 4 minutes.
Transfer cut-side up to a serving platter. Drizzle with more olive oil. Top with 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, 1 teaspoon flaky salt or 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
Recipe Notes
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.