Grilled tomatoes are incredibly versatile, requiring minimal prep and just a few ingredients. They cook quickly and develop a deep, savory flavor with a hint of char. This recipe is a great way to use up extra tomatoes, and it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, crusty bread, or as a topping for your favorite summer dishes. They’re also naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Fresh tomatoes (cherry, plum, or beefsteak), halved or sliced
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder or minced garlic (optional)
Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano (optional, for garnish)
Balsamic glaze or vinegar (optional, for finishing)
Directions
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Wash and dry the tomatoes. Cut larger tomatoes into thick slices or halves. Cherry tomatoes can be skewered.
Brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
Place the tomatoes cut side down on the grill. Grill for 2–4 minutes, until grill marks form and the tomatoes begin to soften.
Flip and grill the other side for another 1–2 minutes, depending on size and thickness.
Remove from grill and transfer to a serving platter.
Garnish with fresh herbs and drizzle with balsamic glaze or vinegar if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 10 minutes of prep time and 8 minutes of cook time, totaling 18 minutes.
Variations
Cheesy Grilled Tomatoes: Top with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta after grilling.
Herb Marinated: Toss with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs before grilling for extra flavor.
Stuffed Tomatoes: Scoop out and stuff with breadcrumbs and cheese before grilling for a hearty variation.
Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Smoky Option: Use smoked paprika in the seasoning blend to enhance the grilled flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover grilled tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven at 350°F for about 5–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them overly soft. Grilled tomatoes can also be used cold in salads or pasta dishes.
FAQs
What kind of tomatoes are best for grilling?
Firm varieties like Roma, plum, or beefsteak hold up well on the grill. Cherry tomatoes can also be grilled when skewered.
Should I remove the seeds before grilling?
No, it’s not necessary. The seeds and juices add flavor and moisture during grilling.
Can I grill tomatoes without oil?
Yes, but a light brushing of oil helps prevent sticking and enhances flavor.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes first?
No, the skin becomes soft and flavorful when grilled. Peeling isn’t needed.
How do I keep tomatoes from falling apart on the grill?
Use thicker slices, avoid overcooking, and handle them gently when flipping.
Can I make grilled tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, grilled tomatoes can be made ahead and served warm or at room temperature. They also store well for later use.
What can I serve with grilled tomatoes?
They’re great with grilled meats, pasta, crusty bread, salads, or as a topping for pizza or sandwiches.
Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Absolutely. A stovetop grill pan works just as well for this recipe.
How long should I grill cherry tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes take about 2–3 minutes per side. Skewering them makes flipping easier.
Can I freeze grilled tomatoes?
It’s not recommended as the texture becomes mushy, but they can be blended into sauces or soups if frozen.
Conclusion
Grilled tomatoes are a quick, healthy, and flavorful addition to any meal. Whether served as a simple side or incorporated into your favorite dishes, they offer a burst of smoky sweetness and rich umami that’s hard to beat. With minimal ingredients and endless variations, this easy recipe is a go-to for summer cooking and beyond.
Grilled tomatoes are a smoky, juicy, and slightly caramelized take on a classic ingredient. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re perfect as a side dish, topping, or addition to salads, pastas, or sandwiches. This easy recipe brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes with just a few simple ingredients.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:8 minutes
Total Time:18 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Grilling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
4–6 fresh tomatoes (cherry, plum, or beefsteak), halved or thickly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic (optional)
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or vinegar (optional, for finishing)
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (basil, thyme, or oregano), chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Wash and dry the tomatoes. Halve or slice larger tomatoes into thick rounds. Skewer cherry tomatoes if using.
Brush the cut sides of the tomatoes with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
Place the tomatoes cut side down on the grill. Cook for 2–4 minutes, until grill marks form and tomatoes start to soften.
Flip and grill the other side for 1–2 more minutes, depending on thickness.
Transfer grilled tomatoes to a serving platter.
Garnish with fresh herbs and drizzle with balsamic glaze or vinegar, if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Use firmer tomatoes like Roma or beefsteak to prevent falling apart on the grill.Skewer cherry tomatoes to make grilling and flipping easier.Grilled tomatoes store well and are great in salads, sandwiches, or pasta.Add cheese like feta or Parmesan for a rich variation after grilling.Use a grill pan indoors if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
