The first time I grilled heirloom tomatoes, I almost ate them all before they made it to the table. Four large tomatoes, sliced thick, seasoned with salt and pepper, and grilled two to three minutes per side over medium-high heat until grill marks appear. Topped with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and olive oil. Finished with fresh basil leaves.
Grilling concentrates the flavour of heirloom tomatoes in a way that raw slicing cannot. The heat caramelises the natural sugars, and the smoky char contrasts with the sweet, acidic flesh. The Parmesan and garlic topping melts slightly on the warm slices and tastes like the best bruschetta you have ever had, minus the bread. We keep making these on repeat every time heirloom tomatoes show up at the market.
Tips for Making Grilled Heirloom Tomatoes
Use thick slices so they hold together on the grill
Slice the tomatoes at least half an inch thick. Thin slices fall apart on the grill and drop through the grates.
Heirloom tomatoes are softer than regular tomatoes. Handle them gently when flipping. A wide spatula helps.
Add the Parmesan topping after grilling
Mix the grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and olive oil in a small bowl. Spoon it onto the warm tomato slices after they come off the grill.
The residual heat softens the cheese and warms the garlic without cooking it. Add the basil leaves on top just before serving.
Grilled Heirloom Tomatoes with Parmesan and Garlic Topping
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2-6
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Savor the taste of summer with these grilled heirloom tomatoes topped with a savory parmesan and garlic mixture, perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main.
Ingredients
- 4 large heirloom tomatoes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Slice the heirloom tomatoes into thick slices.
- In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- Season the tomato slices with salt and pepper.
- Place the tomato slices on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
- Remove from the grill and top each slice with the Parmesan and garlic mixture.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
These tomatoes are a great vegetarian option for a cookout. They pair well with creamy pasta and sautéed zucchini. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled steak. Use any variety of small heirloom tomatoes you prefer. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tomato slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 15
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of heirloom tomatoes?
Any variety. Red, yellow, purple, striped. Larger tomatoes are easier to slice and grill. Smaller varieties tend to be juicier and may fall apart more easily.
Can I use regular tomatoes?
Yes, but heirloom tomatoes have a sweeter, more complex flavour. Beefsteak tomatoes are the closest substitute in size and texture.
What do I serve these with?
Alongside grilled steak, with pasta, or on their own as an appetiser. They pair well with anything you would normally put a fresh tomato next to.
