Charred Heirloom Tomatoes With Fresh Herbs

The scent of woodsmoke and ripe tomatoes always takes me back to late summer evenings at my grandmother’s farm. We’d gather around the old brick barbeque, the air thick with the buzzing of cicadas, and she’d grill up whatever the garden had to offer. These charred tomatoes, bursting with sweetness and the earthy aroma of fresh herbs, capture that feeling perfectly – simple ingredients transformed into something truly special by the magic of fire. I can almost hear her laughter echoing as I prepare this dish, a delicious memory rekindled with every bite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 6 large tomatoes, about 10 ounces each, heirloom is best, cored and cut horizontally in half
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, divided
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, divided
• 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Rimmed baking sheet
• Barbeque grill
• Grill brush

Instructions

1. Preheat your barbeque grill to medium-high heat. This is crucial for achieving that beautiful char.
2. Arrange the tomato halves, cut side up, on a rimmed baking sheet. This makes them easy to transport to the grill.
3. Season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy – the seasoning will penetrate the tomato flesh as it cooks.
4. Sprinkle the tomatoes with 1 1/2 tablespoons of fresh oregano and 1 1/2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves, distributing them evenly across the cut surfaces.
5. Drizzle the tomatoes with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Make sure each half gets a good coating of oil, which will help them char nicely and prevent sticking.
6. Clean your grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush. This ensures good contact between the tomatoes and the heat.
7. Brush the grill grates with the remaining olive oil to prevent the tomatoes from sticking.
8. Carefully place the tomato halves, cut side up, on the hot grill rack.
9. Cook the tomatoes until the bottoms are nicely charred, about 3-4 minutes. Watch them carefully to prevent burning. The goal is a deep, smoky char that adds depth of flavor.
10. Using tongs, carefully turn the tomatoes over and grill them just to sear the rounded side, about 1 minute. This step adds another layer of texture and flavor.
11. Transfer the charred tomatoes to a serving platter, arranging them cut side up.
12. Sprinkle the cooked tomatoes with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of fresh oregano and 1/2 tablespoon of fresh thyme.
13. Drizzle with more olive oil, if desired. A final drizzle of good quality olive oil adds richness and shine.
14. Serve the charred heirloom tomatoes warm.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Choosing Your Tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes are ideal for this recipe because of their diverse flavors and colors, but any ripe, flavorful tomato will work well. Roma tomatoes might require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the grill. Overcrowding can lower the grill temperature and prevent proper charring.
• Adjust Cooking Time: The cooking time may vary depending on the heat of your grill and the size of your tomatoes. Keep a close eye on them and adjust the time accordingly.
• Add a Touch of Acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar after grilling can brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the olive oil.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The tomatoes can be seasoned and oiled up to an hour in advance and kept at room temperature. Add the fresh herbs right before grilling for the best flavor.
• Fix for Uneven Charring: If some tomatoes char faster than others, move them to a cooler part of the grill or remove them entirely while the others finish cooking.
• Enhance the Smoke: Add wood chips (such as hickory or applewood) to your grill for an even smokier flavor. Soak the chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the coals or smoker box.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the charred heirloom tomatoes warm as a side dish, appetizer, or as part of a larger antipasto platter. They are delicious on their own, but also pair well with grilled meats, fish, or pasta. Try serving them with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful juices.

Leftover tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh, as the texture will soften slightly upon refrigeration.

These tomatoes are not suitable for long-term freezing, as the high water content will cause them to become mushy when thawed.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	120 kcal	6%
Total Fat	9g	14%
Saturated Fat	1.3g	7%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	7g	2%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Sugars	4g
Protein	1.5g	3%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Different Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or chives. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the charred tomatoes for a richer flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of extra olive oil for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic to the olive oil before drizzling it over the tomatoes for a garlicky flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: While fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.

Q: What if I don’t have a barbeque grill?
A: You can also char the tomatoes under a broiler or in a hot cast-iron skillet. Broil for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tops are charred. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side.

Q: How do I know when the tomatoes are done?
A: The tomatoes are done when the bottoms are nicely charred and the flesh is slightly softened. Avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy.

Q: Can I use cherry tomatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes, cherry tomatoes can be used. Toss them with the herbs and oil, then grill them in a grill basket or on skewers.

Q: What can I serve with these charred tomatoes?
A: These tomatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many dishes. Consider grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They are also delicious as a topping for bruschetta or pasta.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own delicious memories around the grill. The simple combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and the smoky char of the barbeque is truly magical. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to create your own unique version. Share your creations with friends and family, and let the flavors of summer shine! I’d love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you add to this classic dish.