Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that bursts with Italian summer flavor and is delightfully simple to prepare, Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella is an absolute must. This easy-to-love classic combines juicy, grill-kissed tomatoes with creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a showstopping appetizer or side that feels like it came straight from a Tuscan trattoria. The best part? This recipe is so quick you’ll have it on the table in a flash, with every bite offering a gorgeous balance of smoky, creamy, herby, and subtly salty notes you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beautiful things about Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella is that each ingredient truly shines, playing a vital role in the final flavor and texture. There aren’t many components here, so aim for the best quality you can find—it really pays off!

• Tomatoes: Choose firm, ripe (but not overly ripe) tomatoes for grilling—they’ll hold their shape and caramelize beautifully without turning mushy.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Creamy mozzarella slices melt gently onto the hot tomatoes, adding gorgeous richness and a bit of indulgence.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil brings fruity notes and ties all the flavors together when serving.
• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds a pop of freshness and a classic Italian aroma that’s simply irresistible.
• Oregano: Just a sprinkle elevates the flavor profile with its earthy, fragrant character.
• Salt: A couple of pinches are all you need to make every ingredient sing—don’t skip this final touch!

How to Make Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes

Start by slicing your tomatoes into thick rounds. About half an inch thick is perfect—any thinner and they might fall apart on the grill, any thicker and they’ll take longer to cook. Lay them out on a plate so they’re ready to go once your grill is hot.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill or Pan

Heat your grill or a sturdy grill pan until it’s very hot. A properly preheated grill is essential, since it quickly caramelizes the tomatoes and gives you those desirable smoky grill marks. If you’re using a barbecue, medium-high heat is just right for this job.

Step 3: Grill the Tomatoes

Arrange the tomato slices on the hot grill or pan, being careful to give each slice enough space. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping gently once the underside has developed golden, charred lines. The tomatoes should soften but still hold their shape.

Step 4: Add the Mozzarella

Transfer the grilled tomatoes to a clean plate while they’re still hot. Immediately top each slice with a piece of fresh mozzarella—this way, the residual heat starts to melt the cheese. It’s one of the magical elements that makes Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella such a crowd-pleaser.

Step 5: Garnish and Finish

With your mozzarella in place, drizzle each tomato with olive oil, then sprinkle over the chopped basil, oregano, and salt. The subtle herby flavors and finishing oil bring everything together, making the dish bright, savory, and utterly mouthwatering. Serve immediately for optimal melty goodness!

How to Serve Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella

Garnishes

For extra flair, add a little more fresh basil, a grinding of black pepper, or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. A few shavings of aged Parmesan can add an extra savory note, taking your Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella right over the top.

Side Dishes

These tomatoes are a flavorful side to grilled meats, fish, or a simple pasta dish. They’re lovely set alongside crusty bread for sopping up the delicious juices, and if you’re having a summer picnic or barbecue, they make a colorful and inviting addition to the spread.

Creative Ways to Present

You can arrange the Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella in a pretty overlapping row on a large platter for a family-style presentation. Alternatively, serve each tomato-mozzarella stack over a bed of arugula, or skewer smaller tomato and mozzarella bites for passed appetizers at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have extra Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’re best eaten within two days for top freshness, as the tomatoes will continue to soften over time.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as tomatoes and mozzarella lose their textures and become watery after thawing. For the very best experience, enjoy Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella fresh or just slightly chilled from the fridge.

Reheating

If you’d like to reheat leftovers, place the tomato and mozzarella slices on a lined baking sheet and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes until just heated through. Avoid using the microwave if possible, since it can make the tomatoes watery and the cheese rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?

While fresh mozzarella is highly recommended for its creaminess and superb melting quality, you can use low-moisture mozzarella in a pinch—the texture will just be a bit firmer, and the flavor less milky and delicate.

What’s the best type of tomato for Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella?

Look for large, firm, ripe tomatoes such as beefsteak or heirloom varieties. Avoid overripe or overly juicy tomatoes, as they may break down on the grill and become messy.

Can I make this dish indoors if I don’t have a grill?

Absolutely! A grill pan or even a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop will work beautifully. You’ll still get a delicious, slightly smoky flavor and beautiful caramelization without needing an outdoor grill.

Is it possible to prepare Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella for a crowd?

This recipe scales up effortlessly—just double or triple the quantities as needed, and use a larger grill or two pans to fit more tomatoes at once. It’s a perfect party appetizer that looks gorgeous on a platter.

What herbs can I substitute for basil and oregano?

If you’re out of basil or oregano, try a sprinkle of fresh thyme, marjoram, or even flat-leaf parsley. Each offers its own unique herby brightness to Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella.

Final Thoughts

With its juicy, grilled tomatoes, luxurious mozzarella, and fragrant summer herbs, Grilled Tomatoes with Mozzarella is the kind of effortless, sun-kissed dish you’ll want to make all season long. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!

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