Skillet-grilled Plum Tomatoes
Skillet-grilled Plum Tomatoes Recipe with Olive Oil and Herbs
Introduction
Skillet-grilled plum tomatoes are a simple and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or even as a light main course. The combination of fresh tomatoes with herbs and spices creates a flavorful and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion.
History
Skillet-grilled plum tomatoes have been a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. The simple preparation and fresh ingredients make this dish a staple in many households. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a dish that is both savory and satisfying.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Halve the tomatoes lengthwise.
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add oil and heat for 1 minute.
- Place the tomatoes in the skillet, cut side down.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the tomatoes are slightly browned.
- Flip the tomatoes over.
- Sprinkle parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper over the tomatoes.
- Cook for 1 minute.
- Serve the dish hot.
- For a hot serving option, the tomatoes can be served uncooked. Simply drizzle oil over the tomatoes and sprinkle with herbs, salt, and pepper.
Variations
- You can customize this recipe by adding other herbs and spices, such as garlic, thyme, or rosemary. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When grilling the tomatoes, make sure to use a heavy skillet to ensure even cooking. It is important to cook the tomatoes cut side down first to get a nice sear on the flesh. Be sure not to overcook the tomatoes, as they can become mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Skillet-grilled plum tomatoes can be served as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish. They also make a great topping for bruschetta or a salad.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the tomatoes in a skillet allows them to caramelize and develop a rich flavor. This technique enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and creates a delicious dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have plum tomatoes, you can use cherry tomatoes or regular tomatoes instead. You can also use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs for a more intense flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the tomatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. Simply heat them in a skillet before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the skillet-grilled plum tomatoes on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. You can also drizzle them with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Skillet-grilled plum tomatoes pair well with grilled meats, seafood, or pasta dishes. They also go well with a glass of red wine or a crisp white wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover skillet-grilled plum tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of skillet-grilled plum tomatoes contains approximately 40 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of skillet-grilled plum tomatoes contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of skillet-grilled plum tomatoes contains approximately 2 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of skillet-grilled plum tomatoes contains approximately 1 gram of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Skillet-grilled plum tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
Alergens
Skillet-grilled plum tomatoes are gluten-free and dairy-free. However, if you have a sensitivity to nightshade vegetables, such as tomatoes, you may want to avoid this dish.
Summary
Skillet-grilled plum tomatoes are a low-calorie, low-carb dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals. They are a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.
Summary
Skillet-grilled plum tomatoes are a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can enjoy a flavorful and healthy dish that is sure to impress.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for skillet-grilled plum tomatoes. It was a warm summer day, much like today, and I was visiting my friend Anna's farm. Anna had a beautiful garden filled with all sorts of delicious fruits and vegetables, and she was always trying out new recipes with her fresh produce.
As we walked through her garden, Anna picked a handful of plump, ripe plum tomatoes and handed them to me. "I've been experimenting with different ways to cook these tomatoes," she said, a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "I think I've found a winning recipe that I want to share with you."
We headed back to Anna's farmhouse, where she pulled out a cast iron skillet and heated it over the stove. As the skillet sizzled, Anna sliced the tomatoes in half and placed them cut-side down on the hot surface. The smell of the tomatoes hitting the hot skillet filled the kitchen, and I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation.
After a few minutes, Anna flipped the tomatoes over and sprinkled them with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. The tomatoes sizzled and charred on the outside, while the insides softened and released their sweet juices. The combination of flavors and textures was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
As we sat down to enjoy our skillet-grilled plum tomatoes, Anna shared the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her Italian grandmother, who had passed it down through generations of their family. The recipe was simple yet delicious, a perfect way to showcase the natural flavor of the fresh tomatoes.
I was so enthralled by the dish that I asked Anna to teach me how to make it myself. She gladly agreed, and we spent the rest of the afternoon cooking together, laughing and sharing stories as we enjoyed the fruits of our labor.
From that day on, skillet-grilled plum tomatoes became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make them for family gatherings, dinner parties, and lazy Sunday brunches. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to that sunny day on Anna's farm and the joy of discovering a new recipe that would become a beloved favorite.
Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding fresh herbs like basil and thyme or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. But the essence of the dish – the simple yet delicious combination of ripe tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and seasonings – remains the same.
Now, whenever I make skillet-grilled plum tomatoes, I am reminded of the special bond that food can create between friends and family. It's not just about the flavors and aromas, but the memories and stories that we share around the table.
And so, as I continue to pass down this recipe to future generations, I know that I am also passing along a piece of my own history – a taste of friendship, love, and the joy of discovering something new and delicious.