Grilled Tomatoes With Oregano
Grilled tomatoes with oregano offer a simple yet flavorful side dish, highlighting the sweetness of ripe tomatoes complemented by aromatic oregano. Perfect for summer barbecues or light lunches, this dish's smoky, herb-infused notes appeal to vegetable lovers and those seeking healthy, easy-to-make recipes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler.
- Core the tomatoes and slice them in half.
- Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Arrange the tomato halves in the dish, cut side up.
- Sprinkle each tomato half with about 1/2 teaspoon oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle about 1 teaspoon oil over each half.
- Broil for about 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. If fresh oregano isn't available, dried oregano can be substituted, but use about a third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. To add a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before broiling. For a twist, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese on top before serving, which complements the tomatoes well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve grilled tomatoes warm as a side dish or atop crusty bread for an appetizer. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making them a perfect complement to Mediterranean recipes. For a complete meal, serve alongside a light Zucchini Tomato Bake or a refreshing Gazpacho.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover grilled tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them under a broiler for a couple of minutes until warmed through, or microwave them for 30 seconds. They can also be used in salads, like a refreshing Parsley Salad, or blended into soups.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Tomatoes With Oregano contains roughly 339 calories, with 12g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (190% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1784mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other herbs instead of oregano?
Absolutely! While oregano is traditional, fresh basil or thyme can also enhance the flavor of grilled tomatoes. Adjust the quantity to taste, as different herbs have varying intensities. Experimenting with different herbs can provide a unique twist to this simple dish.
How do I know when the tomatoes are done broiling?
The tomatoes are ready when they are slightly charred and softened, typically after about 5 minutes under the broiler. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. The goal is to achieve a nice caramelization while maintaining the tomato's juiciness.
Can I grill tomatoes on an outdoor grill instead?
Yes, grilling tomatoes outdoors adds a lovely smoky flavor. Simply place the tomato halves cut side up on a medium heat grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and develop grill marks. Use a grill basket for smaller pieces to prevent them from falling through the grates.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).