Grilled Tomato Halves Recipe

Grilled Tomato Halves are the ultimate way to bring out the natural sweetness and juiciness of summer’s star produce. With their smoky flavor, vibrant color, and endless serving possibilities, they might just become your new favorite grilling side!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Grilled Tomato Halves is how the simplest ingredients work together to create something slice-of-summer spectacular. Each element plays a part, from smoky tomatoes to the drizzle of good olive oil and that final shower of basil.

• Firm Roma Tomatoes: Choose perfectly ripe but still firm tomatoes; they hold up best on the grill and soak up all the smoky goodness.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: This coats and protects the tomatoes on the grill, adds flavor, and helps everything cook evenly—don’t be shy!
• Italian Dressing: For zippy, herby brightness once the tomatoes come off the heat; homemade or a good bottled dressing works beautifully.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan or Vegan Parmesan (optional): Take your tomatoes from simple to special with a salty-savory finish…or go dairy-free!
• Fresh Basil Leaves: The bold, peppery aroma is the best final touch for both color and freshness.
• Sea Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.

Variations

This recipe is endlessly adaptable—think of Grilled Tomato Halves as a canvas for your favorite flavors or dietary needs! Try swapping, adding, or tweaking ingredients to make it your own.

• Balsamic Bliss: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze instead of Italian dressing for a sweet-tangy twist.
• Herb Lover’s Dream: Sprinkle chopped thyme, oregano, or chives over the finished tomatoes for even more fresh flavor.
• Plant-Based: Use vegan Parmesan or skip the cheese entirely for a fully plant-based, dairy-free dish.
• Kicked-Up Crunch: Add toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts on top before serving for texture and extra nuttiness.

How to Make Grilled Tomato Halves

Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes

Slice your roma tomatoes in half lengthwise. This shape creates flat surfaces that are less likely to roll around on the grill and develop those beautiful, deep grill marks. Lay them out cut-side up on a tray so you’re ready to season.

Step 2: Season Generously

Drizzle the cut sides of each tomato half generously with extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Give them a few minutes to absorb those flavors—they’ll reward you with even more juiciness on the grill!

Step 3: Get Grilling

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the tomatoes cut side down and don’t fuss with them—after 4 to 6 minutes you’ll see gorgeous grill marks. Flip and grill the skin side for another 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender but still holding together.

Step 4: Dress & Serve

Transfer the grilled tomato halves to a serving platter. Drizzle with Italian dressing while warm, season again if you wish, and add a shower of fresh Parmesan (or vegan Parmesan). Finish with torn fresh basil leaves so every bite is a sunburst.

How to Serve Grilled Tomato Halves

Garnishes

Finish your Grilled Tomato Halves with ribbons of fresh basil, a sprinkling of coarse sea salt, and, if you like, a generous dusting of Parmesan or vegan cheese. Fresh herbs like oregano or chives add a pretty, aromatic touch, too!

Side Dishes

These beauties shine next to grilled chicken, fish, or steak, but also make a flavorful companion for quinoa bowls, warm pasta salads, or even creamy polenta. Toss them atop fresh greens for a hearty, smoky salad that wows every time.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer Grilled Tomato Halves on rustic bread with pesto for an easy bruschetta, or arrange them over a big platter of grilled vegetables for a dramatic, colorful centerpiece. For a playful appetizer, skewer them with mozzarella balls and basil for summer caprese kebabs!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Grilled Tomato Halves cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days; they’ll release delicious juices—perfect for tossing with pasta or grains!

Freezing

While fresh grilled tomatoes are best enjoyed right away, you can freeze them if needed. Place cooled, grilled halves on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. They’re delicious blended into soups or sauces after thawing, though their texture will soften.

Reheating

To reheat, arrange leftover tomatoes cut-side up in a baking dish and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave gently, but for best flavor and texture, oven warming brings them back to life!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about Grilled Tomato Halves—sweet, smoky, and bursting with flavor, they’re summer on a plate. Give them a try at your next cookout or weeknight dinner, and don’t be surprised when everyone starts asking for your “secret” recipe!

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