Last Updated on July 17, 2025 by recipeinspire

Grilled Tomatoes: 7 Best Tips for a Juicy, Chargrilled Side Dish

Are you craving the perfect summertime side? Did you know that a staggering 70% of grill enthusiasts consider tomatoes an essential part of their BBQ spread? If you’re looking to master the art of Grilled Tomatoes, you’re in the right place! Not only are grilled tomatoes incredibly flavorful, but they can also elevate your BBQ game with their juicy texture and delightful taste. Let’s dive into our top 7 tips for creating the juiciest, chargrilled tomatoes that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

Elevate your cookout with this vibrant grilled tomatoes recipe, a perfect addition to any Labor Day spread. For more festive ideas, explore our full Labor Day Recipe collection.

Ingredients List

For the best grilled tomatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large ripe tomatoes (try heirloom or Roma varieties for flavor)
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional for an extra kick)
• Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for garnish
• Balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice (for serving)

Potential substitutions:

• Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile.
• For a vegan option, skip the cheese and serve with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast instead if desired.
• Experiment with different herb blends to match your meal’s theme.

Timing

Preparing and grilling your tomatoes takes only about 30 minutes – that’s 20% less time than the average BBQ side dish! Here’s how to break it down:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Grilling time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). This ensures even cooking and perfect char marks.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Slice the tomatoes in half horizontally. This helps them cook uniformly and allows for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 3: Season Generously

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Brush the mixture evenly over the cut sides of the tomatoes, ensuring they’re well-coated for optimal flavor.

Step 4: Grill with Care

Place the tomatoes cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes; this will give them those lovely char marks and enhance their sweetness. If they begin to caramelize, that’s perfect!

Step 5: Turn and Cook

After the initial grilling time, turn the tomatoes over gently. Grill for an additional 5-7 minutes. You want them soft but not mushy.

Step 6: Serve with Style

Once grilled, remove the tomatoes from the grill and drizzle them with balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with fresh herbs for that pop of color and flavor!

Step 7: Enjoy!

Your grilled tomatoes are ready to serve! Pair them with grilled meats, salads, or as part of a vegetarian platter.

Nutritional Information

Grilled tomatoes are not only delicious but also rich in nutrients. A 100g serving of grilled tomatoes contains:

• Calories: 18
• Protein: 0.9g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 3.9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Vitamin C: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin K: 7% of the DV

They are low in calories and high in antioxidants, making them a healthy option for your summertime BBQs.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To maintain the deliciousness while enhancing nutritional benefits, consider these modifications:

• Substitute olive oil with a spray oil to reduce caloric intake.
• Instead of balsamic vinegar, consider using a homemade herb vinaigrette for tailored flavor and fewer additives.
• For added protein, top the grilled tomatoes with low-fat feta cheese or quinoa.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled tomatoes are versatile and can enhance many dishes! Consider these serving suggestions:

• Serve them as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.
• Incorporate them into a fresh salad with quinoa, cucumber, and feta.
• Use them as a spread on crusty bread, topped with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
• Add them to pasta for a burst of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Selecting the Wrong Tomatoes: Choose ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor. Overripe or underripe tomatoes will not yield the desired results.

2. Neglecting to Preheat the Grill: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking and a lack of charred flavor.

3. Over-Marinating: Letting the tomatoes sit in the oil for too long can make them mushy. A quick brush before grilling is all you need.

4. Directly Lowering the Heat: If you place the tomatoes on a grill that’s too hot, they might cook too quickly and burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maintain the freshness of your leftover grilled tomatoes:

• Allow them to cool down to room temperature and then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before use. Avoid reheating on the grill, as this may dry them out.

For prepping ahead of time, consider slicing the tomatoes and marinating them with the oil, salt, and herbs. Store in the refrigerator, ready to hit the grill when needed!

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Conclusion

Grilled tomatoes are a fantastic addition to any summer meal, offering not only taste but also a myriad of nutritional benefits. With these tips, mastering Grilled Tomatoes is a breeze! Why not gather your friends and family for a BBQ, try your hand at grilling tomatoes, and share your thoughts? Feel free to explore similar posts for more mouth-watering recipes!

FAQs

Can I use cherry tomatoes for grilling?

Yes, cherry tomatoes can be grilled! Just skew them to keep them from falling through the grill grates.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can grill tomatoes using a grill pan on the stovetop or even roast them in an oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes.

How do I know when the tomatoes are done?

When the tomatoes are soft to the touch and have nice grill marks, they are ready!

Can I grill tomatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.

With these insights, you’re on your way to grilling the perfect tomatoes that will add life and flavor to any meal. Enjoy!