20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes are like summer’s sweet kiss on your taste buds, bursting with juicy goodness that dances on your palate. Picture this: you’re outside, the sun is shining, and the smoky aroma of grilled tomatoes wafts through the air, promising a flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with everything from grilled meats to fresh salads. sun-dried tomato spaghetti recipe.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. Every summer, my grandma would host family barbecues where these vibrant little beauties took center stage. As a child, I remember sneaking bites off the grill while trying to avoid the watchful eye of my grandma, who had a sixth sense for mischief. These tomatoes always brought laughter and joy to our gatherings, making them a must-have at any summer feast!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Their flavor profile combines sweetness with a hint of smokiness that elevates any dish.
- The vibrant colors make your plate pop, turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as a side dish or topping for burgers and sandwiches.
Ingredients for 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Tomatoes: Choose ripe tomatoes for maximum sweetness; heirloom varieties add great flavor and color.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and to help the spices stick.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness with savory notes. garlic butter parmesan rigatoni.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper for best results.
- Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness that beautifully compliments grilled tomatoes.
How to Make 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, get those coals glowing red; if gas, just turn it on and let it heat up while you prep the tomatoes.
Step 2: Slice the Tomatoes
Cut your fresh tomatoes in half lengthwise. You want them sturdy enough to hold up on the grill but soft enough to soak in all that deliciousness.
Step 3: Season the Halves
In a bowl, drizzle olive oil over the tomato halves. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper generously—don’t be shy! These flavors will infuse into every bite.
Step 4: Grill Time
Place the seasoned tomato halves cut-side down on the grill. Grill for about 5 minutes until they develop beautiful char marks—this is when magic happens!
Step 5: Flip and Add Balsamic
Carefully flip each tomato half over using tongs. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over them and close the grill lid. Let them cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender but not mushy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer your grilled tomatoes onto a platter for serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature—perfect for picnics or BBQs!
Add these delightful grilled tomatoes as a side dish or let them shine as a topping on your favorite burgers or salads! You’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear—just like that summer sunshine!
You Must Know
- This delightful 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes recipe transforms ordinary tomatoes into a burst of flavor.
- With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your meals in no time.
- Perfect for adding to salads, pastas, or enjoying straight off the grill!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your grill and slicing the tomatoes in half. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill cut side down first for about 5-7 minutes, then flip for another 5 minutes to achieve that perfect char.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment! Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic kick. A sprinkle of feta cheese or balsamic glaze makes these grilled tomatoes even more irresistible. You can even swap in different vegetables for variety.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on a skillet over low heat or pop them back on the grill briefly to enjoy their smoky flavor again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; they’re sweeter and juicier.
- Make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the tomatoes to avoid steaming.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each tomato space to get that nice char.
Sometimes I serve these grilled tomatoes at family gatherings, and I swear they disappear faster than my cousin can tell his famous dad jokes. They’re always a hit!
FAQs :
What are the best tomatoes for grilling?
When making 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes, choose tomatoes that are firm and meaty. Varieties such as Roma, beefsteak, or vine-ripened tomatoes hold up well on the grill. These types have fewer seeds and thicker flesh, ensuring they don’t fall apart during cooking. Look for bright color and a slight give when you press them gently. The flavor intensifies when grilled, making your dish even more delicious.
How do I prepare tomatoes for grilling?
To prepare tomatoes for 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes, start by washing them thoroughly. Cut them in half or into thick slices, depending on your preference. For larger varieties like beefsteak, cutting them into quarters can also work well. blueberry tart for dessert Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides and season with salt and pepper. This preparation helps enhance their natural sweetness while preventing them from sticking to the grill.
Can I use other vegetables with grilled tomatoes?
Absolutely! Incorporating other vegetables will elevate your 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes. Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn on the cob. These veggies complement grilled tomatoes beautifully and create a colorful side dish. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the size and type of vegetables you use to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
How should I serve grilled tomatoes?
You can serve your 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes in various ways! They make a fantastic side dish for meats like chicken or steak. You can also toss them into salads or pasta dishes for added flavor. chicken gyros with grilled veggies For a light meal, pair them with crusty bread and fresh herbs for a delightful bruschetta-style appetizer.
Conclusion for 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes :
In conclusion, 20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes offer a quick and delicious way to enjoy this vibrant summer fruit. By selecting the right variety of tomatoes and preparing them properly, you’ll achieve fantastic flavor and texture on the grill. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables to enhance your dish further. Whether served as a side or incorporated into other meals, grilled tomatoes are sure to impress family and friends alike!
20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
20-Minute Grilled Tomatoes are a vibrant, smoky side dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Juicy and bursting with flavor, these grilled tomatoes complement a variety of meals, from barbecued meats to fresh salads. Made with just five simple ingredients, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Elevate your dining experience in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes (heirloom or beefsteak)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Slice tomatoes in half lengthwise.
- Drizzle olive oil over cut sides; season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill cut-side down for 5-7 minutes until charred.
- Flip tomatoes, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and grill for another 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tomato halves (100g)
- Calories: 76
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg