Blue Cheese Broiled Tomatoes: A Quick & Flavorful Delight

I still remember the first time I had something similar to these broiled tomatoes. I was visiting a small farm in Sonoma, California, and the farmer’s wife whipped up a batch using tomatoes straight from the vine. The tangy blue cheese against the sweet, slightly acidic tomatoes was a revelation. We ate them warm, right there in the sunshine, with a hunk of crusty bread. It was simple, rustic, and utterly perfect, and this recipe captures that very essence.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 minute
• Total Time: 6 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 large tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 dash pepper
• 1 cup soft breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese

Equipment Needed

• Broiler rack
• Sharp knife
• Small bowl
• Fork

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the tomatoes. Cut the stems off and then slice each tomato in half horizontally, creating two thick slices.
2. Place the tomato slices on the broiler rack, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This allows for optimal heat distribution.
3. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Sprinkle a small amount of the spice mixture over each tomato slice. The sugar will caramelize beautifully under the broiler, while the basil, salt, and pepper will enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes.
5. In another small bowl, add the soft breadcrumbs to the melted butter. Toss lightly with a fork until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. The butter will help the breadcrumbs brown and create a delicious, crispy topping.
6. Add the crumbled blue cheese to the breadcrumb mixture and toss again lightly. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the texture of the blue cheese.
7. Spoon the breadcrumb and blue cheese mixture generously onto each tomato slice. Ensure that each slice is evenly covered.
8. Carefully slip the rack with the tomato slices under the broiler. Keep a close eye on them, as they will brown quickly.
9. Broil until the breadcrumbs are nicely browned, approximately 1 minute. The exact time will depend on the strength of your broiler, so watch carefully to prevent burning. The cheese should be melty and the tomatoes heated through.
10. Serve immediately. These blue cheese broiled tomatoes are best enjoyed while they are still warm and the topping is crispy.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Tomato Selection: Use ripe, but still firm, tomatoes for the best results. Overripe tomatoes will become too soft under the broiler. Beefsteak or Roma tomatoes are excellent choices.
• Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you don’t have soft breadcrumbs on hand, you can use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them under the broiler, as they can brown quickly.
• Blue Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of blue cheese to find your favorite flavor profile. Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or Stilton would all work well. A milder blue cheese will provide a subtle tang, while a stronger one will offer a more pronounced flavor.
• Broiler Awareness: Broilers vary greatly in intensity. Keep a very close eye on the tomatoes once they are under the broiler. You may need to adjust the rack position or broiling time to prevent burning.
• Garlic Infusion: Infuse the melted butter with a clove of minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Simply sauté the garlic in the butter over low heat for a minute or two before adding the breadcrumbs.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the tomato slices, the spice mixture, and the breadcrumb topping ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble just before broiling for the freshest flavor and texture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Blue Cheese Broiled Tomatoes immediately as a delightful appetizer, a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish, or even as a light meal with a simple salad and crusty bread. Their rich flavor pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red.

Leftovers are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While the texture of the topping may soften slightly, the flavor will still be delicious. To reheat, you can place them back under the broiler for a minute or two, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. They are best consumed within 2-3 days. It’s not recommended to freeze them.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	136.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	79g	58%
Total Fat	8.8 g	13%
Saturated Fat	5.3 g	26%
Cholesterol	21.6 mg	7%
Sodium	359.2 mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	12 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	9%
Sugars	6.2 g	24%
Protein	4 g	8%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary in place of the basil. Fresh herbs will add a vibrant flavor.
• Cheese Swap: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try using crumbled feta, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture for a little heat.
• Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: A drizzle of balsamic glaze after broiling adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the rich flavors.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
A: While fresh tomatoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, you could use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and adjust the broiling time accordingly.

Q: Can I prepare the tomatoes in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the tomato slices and topping in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before broiling.

Q: How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too watery?
A: Using firm, ripe tomatoes and broiling them quickly will help prevent them from becoming too watery. You can also sprinkle a little salt on the tomato slices before adding the topping to draw out excess moisture.

Q: Can I bake these instead of broiling them?
A: Yes, you can bake these at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the tomatoes are heated through.

Q: What can I serve with these broiled tomatoes?
A: These tomatoes are delicious as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal. They pair well with grilled meats, fish, salads, and crusty bread.

Final Thoughts

These Blue Cheese Broiled Tomatoes are a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients combined in a way that elevates them to something truly special. They’re quick enough for a weeknight treat and elegant enough to serve to guests. So, give this recipe a try and let the burst of flavors transport you to a sun-drenched farm, even if just for a moment. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and herbs to create your own signature version. And, most importantly, share your culinary creation with friends and family!