Grilled cherry tomatoes are a quick, flavorful vegetable side that pairs perfectly with barbecue meals. Ready in about five minutes on a hot grill, they make an easy, impressive addition to any plate.
With just cherry tomatoes, skewers, a hot grill, and a pinch of sea salt, this recipe keeps things simple and delicious. A brief blast of high heat softens the tomatoes, chars the skins slightly, and concentrates their natural sweetness.
Why grill tomatoes?
Grilling intensifies tomato flavor. The hot grill skins the tomatoes gently and warms the fruit, enhancing sweetness and depth while adding pleasant charred notes.
Serving suggestions
Serve the tomatoes on skewers for a casual gathering so guests can grab one easily, or remove them from the skewers and place them in a serving bowl. They make a bright garnish for grilled chicken or fish, and they’re excellent folded into a pasta salad or salsa. Try them on grilled bread with herb cream cheese for a simple crostini.
Steps to make grilled tomatoes
- Thread 6 cherry tomatoes onto each skewer (wooden or metal).
- Preheat the grill to high heat.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Turn the skewers and cook another 2–3 minutes, until the skins are slightly charred and some tomatoes begin to split.
- Remove from the grill and season with a pinch of sea salt. Serve on the skewer or transfer to a serving dish.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Small tomatoes work best: cherry or grape tomatoes, colorful cocktail tomatoes, or yellow pear tomatoes all grill nicely. Choose firm, ripe tomatoes so they hold together during grilling.
Variations
Keep them plain with just sea salt, or try one of these simple variations to boost flavor:
- Brush with olive oil before grilling.
- Mix minced garlic with olive oil and brush on before grilling.
- Brush with Italian dressing prior to grilling for a tangy glaze.
- Finish with fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or oregano) after grilling.
Frequently asked questions
No. These tomatoes cook quickly, so soaking wooden skewers is not necessary.
About five minutes total, depending on grill heat and tomato size. Look for lightly charred skins and a few split tomatoes as signs they’re done.
Yes—both gas and charcoal grills work well.
They’re best warm, but stored in a covered container in the refrigerator, leftovers will keep for up to 3 days. Use them in salads, pasta dishes, or as a garnish.
More delicious grilling recipes
Try these other simple grill-friendly vegetable dishes to complement your menu:
- Grilled baby potatoes
- Grilled lemon chicken
- Beer-basted BBQ chicken
- Smoked baby back ribs
- Grilled pineapple
- Barbecue flank steak
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment and share a photo on Instagram.
Explore more vegetable recipes for fresh ideas and simple sides.
-
Buttered Peas
-
Maple Glazed Carrots
-
Roasted Delicata Squash
-
Homemade Green Bean Casserole
Grilled Cherry Tomatoes
Kathy Berget
Equipment
-
Skewers
Ingredients
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- Dash teaspoon sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Skewer 6 cherry tomatoes onto each skewer.
- Place skewers on a preheated hot grill.
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side, rotating once so each side cooks evenly.
- Remove from grill and sprinkle with sea salt.
Notes
- Brush with olive oil before grilling.
- Add fresh garlic to olive oil and brush on before grilling.
- Brush Italian dressing on the tomatoes before grilling.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs after grilling.
Nutritional Disclaimer:
Nutritional information is an estimate. For precise values, calculate nutrition using your exact ingredients and portions.
Nutrition
Calories: 18 kcal
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Protein: 1 g
Fat: 1 g
Sodium: 48 mg
Potassium: 222 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 3 g
Vitamin A: 499 IU
Vitamin C: 23 mg
Mention @BeyondTheChickenCoop or tag #beyondthechickencoop on Instagram.