What To Know
- A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper is all you need to enhance the natural flavor of the tomatoes.
- A light drizzle of olive oil will help prevent the tomatoes from sticking to the grill and add a touch of richness.
- For a more gentle approach, use indirect heat by moving the tomatoes to a cooler part of the grill or placing them on a grill rack over a drip pan.
Summer is the time for juicy, flavorful tomatoes, and heirloom varieties are a true delight. Their unique shapes, colors, and textures add a touch of artistry to any dish. But did you know that grilling can elevate these gems to a whole new level of deliciousness?
Grilling concentrates the sweetness and enhances the natural flavors of heirloom tomatoes, creating a burst of summery goodness in every bite. This blog post will guide you through the art of grilling heirloom tomatoes, sharing tips and tricks to ensure you achieve perfectly charred, succulent results.
Choosing the Right Tomatoes
The first step to grilling heirloom tomatoes is selecting the perfect specimens. Here’s what to look for:
- Ripe and Firm: Choose tomatoes that are ripe but still firm to the touch. Avoid tomatoes that are overly soft or have blemishes.
- Variety Matters: Experiment with different heirloom varieties. Some popular options include:
- Brandywine: Known for their deep red color, sweet flavor, and meaty texture.
- Green Zebra: Striking green and yellow stripes, with a slightly tangy and sweet flavor.
- Black Krim: Dark, almost black exterior with a rich, earthy flavor.
- Yellow Pear: Smaller, pear-shaped tomatoes with a bright yellow hue and a sweet, fruity flavor.
- Size and Shape: Choose tomatoes of various sizes and shapes for visual appeal. Smaller tomatoes are perfect for skewers, while larger ones can be grilled on their own.
Preparing the Tomatoes for Grilling
Once you’ve chosen your heirloom tomatoes, it’s time to prepare them for grilling.
- Washing and Drying: Gently wash the tomatoes under cool running water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Halving or Slicing: Depending on the size of your tomatoes, you can either halve them or slice them into thick rounds.
- Seasoning: A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper is all you need to enhance the natural flavor of the tomatoes. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Optional: Drizzle with Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil will help prevent the tomatoes from sticking to the grill and add a touch of richness.
Grilling Techniques for Perfection
Now comes the fun part – grilling the tomatoes! Here are some techniques to ensure they’re cooked to perfection:
- Direct Heat: For a quick grilling experience, use direct heat over medium-high heat. Place the tomatoes on the grill, cut side down, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they develop grill marks and soften slightly.
- Indirect Heat: For a more gentle approach, use indirect heat by moving the tomatoes to a cooler part of the grill or placing them on a grill rack over a drip pan. This method takes a little longer (around 10-15 minutes) but results in a more evenly cooked tomato.
- Skewers: If you’re using smaller tomatoes, thread them onto skewers with other ingredients like mozzarella balls, basil leaves, or bread cubes. Grill them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Signs of Perfect Grilled Tomatoes
How do you know when your heirloom tomatoes are grilled to perfection? Look for these signs:
- Charred Grill Marks: The tomatoes should have beautiful grill marks on the cut side.
- Softness: The tomatoes will have softened slightly, but they shouldn’t be mushy.
- Sweetened Flavor: The grilling process will have concentrated the sweetness and enhanced the natural flavors of the tomatoes.
Serving Your Grilled Heirloom Tomatoes
Grilled heirloom tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:
- Simple Salads: Toss them with fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil for a simple yet elegant salad.
- Caprese Skewers: Combine grilled tomatoes with mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a classic Caprese skewer.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Elevate your grilled cheese by adding slices of grilled tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and flavor.
- Pasta Dishes: Add grilled tomatoes to your favorite pasta dishes for a touch of summery goodness.
- Pizza Toppings: Use grilled tomatoes as a unique topping for your homemade pizza.
Beyond the Grill: Creative Ways to Use Grilled Tomatoes
Don’t limit yourself to traditional uses! Grilled heirloom tomatoes can be incorporated into many other dishes.
- Tomato Jam: Blend grilled tomatoes with sugar, lemon juice, and spices to create a delicious and unique jam.
- Tomato Salsa: Combine grilled tomatoes with onions, cilantro, lime juice, and spices for a flavorful salsa.
- Tomato Bruschetta: Top toasted bread with grilled tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple and satisfying appetizer.
- Soup Base: Use grilled tomatoes as a base for a flavorful tomato soup.
- Tomato Relish: Chop grilled tomatoes and combine them with other ingredients like onions, peppers, and spices for a vibrant relish.
The Art of Simplicity: Enjoying the Flavor
Grilling heirloom tomatoes is a celebration of simplicity and the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Embrace the natural sweetness and vibrant colors of these summer gems, and let the grilling process enhance their flavor.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I grill tomatoes on a gas grill?
A: Absolutely! Gas grills work well for grilling tomatoes. Just make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat before placing the tomatoes on the grill.
Q: How long should I grill heirloom tomatoes?
A: Grilling time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your tomatoes. Generally, you can expect to grill them for 3-5 minutes on direct heat or 10-15 minutes on indirect heat.
Q: What other vegetables can I grill alongside heirloom tomatoes?
A: Heirloom tomatoes pair beautifully with other summer vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, peppers, and onions. You can also grill corn on the cob or asparagus.
Q: Can I freeze grilled tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze grilled tomatoes. To do so, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before using.
Q: What are some tips for preventing tomatoes from bursting while grilling?
A: To prevent tomatoes from bursting, try scoring an “X” on the bottom of each tomato before grilling. This will allow steam to escape during the cooking process. You can also use a grilling basket to prevent the tomatoes from rolling around on the grill.
