Grilled Green Tomatoes with Goat Cheese, Basil, and Lemon Recipe
This Grilled Green Tomatoes recipe offers a fresh and tangy twist on the classic Southern favorite. Thick slices of firm green tomatoes are seasoned and charred on a hot grill, then topped with a creamy, zesty goat cheese mixture infused with lemon, honey, and a hint of spice. Garnished with fresh basil and flaky sea salt, this dish is perfect as a light appetizer or a flavorful side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
Tomatoes
- 4 medium green tomatoes (about 2 lb. total), sliced 1/2″ thick
- 2 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
- 3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for grill and drizzling
Goat Cheese Mixture
- 4 oz. goat cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp. heavy cream
- 1 lemon, zested (about 2 tsp.)
- 1/2 tsp. agave or honey
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- Flaky sea salt, optional
Instructions
- Season the Tomatoes: Season the tomato slices on both sides with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and set aside to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Prepare Goat Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, agave or honey, red pepper flakes, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well until smooth and evenly blended. Spread this mixture evenly on a serving platter or plate.
- Preheat and Prepare Grill: Preheat a gas grill to high heat. Clean the grill grates thoroughly and brush with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Tomatoes: Place the seasoned tomato slices on the hot grill. Grill each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes develop a good char but retain some firmness and do not become overly soft.
- Assemble the Dish: Arrange the grilled tomato slices over the goat cheese mixture on the platter. Drizzle with additional olive oil. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired, and extra red pepper flakes for added spice and color.
Notes
- Use firm green tomatoes that hold their shape well during grilling.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your taste.
- For a vegan version, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use a non-dairy cream substitute.
- Serve immediately after assembling for the best texture and flavor.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop can be used as an alternative cooking method.