Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Prep Vegetables: Halve the tomatoes, slice the onions into thick rings, and separate and peel the garlic cloves.
- Mix Spices: In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 2: Marinate the Vegetables
- Combine with Olive Oil: In a large mixing bowl, add the tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the spice mixture over the vegetables.
- Toss to Coat: Toss the vegetables gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the olive oil and spices. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).
Step 4: Grill the Vegetables
- Grill Tomatoes: Place the tomato halves on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, until they have nice grill marks and start to soften. Flip and grill the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Grill Onions and Garlic: Add the onion slices and garlic cloves to the grill. Grill the onions for about 5-6 minutes per side, until they are tender and slightly charred. Grill the garlic for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and softened.
Step 5: Serve the Grilled Vegetables
- Remove from Grill: Carefully remove the grilled tomatoes, onions, and garlic from the grill.
- Garnish and Serve: Arrange the grilled vegetables on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Vegetables
- Consistent Slicing: Ensure the onion slices are of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates before grilling to prevent the vegetables from sticking.
- Monitor the Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic cloves as they can cook quickly and may need to be removed from the grill earlier than the tomatoes and onions.
Serving Suggestions
- Bruschetta Topping: Serve the grilled vegetables on toasted baguette slices for a delicious bruschetta.
- Pasta Sauce: Chop the grilled vegetables and toss them with cooked pasta, adding a splash of olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese for a simple and flavorful pasta dish.
- Side Dish: Serve the grilled vegetables as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.
- Salad Addition: Add the grilled vegetables to a mixed green salad for extra flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Grilled tomatoes, onions, and garlic with spices in olive oil is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that can be used in various ways. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and infuses them with a smoky flavor, while the olive oil and spices add richness and depth. Enjoy this versatile dish as a side, a topping, or a sauce, and savor the delightful flavors of grilled vegetables. Happy grilling!