Grilled Mushroom & Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Why Grilled Mushrooms & Cherry Tomatoes?
Grilling mushrooms and cherry tomatoes adds a delicious smoky flavor that enhances their natural sweetness and earthiness. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the tomatoes, making them burst with juicy flavor, while the mushrooms soak up all the delicious marinade, becoming tender and flavorful. This combination is a fantastic vegetarian option, a great side dish, or even a topping for grilled meats, fish, or pasta.
Grilling small items like mushrooms and cherry tomatoes can be a bit tricky since they tend to slip through the grill grates. That’s why I always use my Braize Steel Grilling Basket with Removable Handle.
This basket is perfect for grilling small veggies because it keeps them secure and evenly spaced, preventing any from falling through.
Grilled Mushroom & Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mixed mushrooms (cremini, button, or portobello), cleaned and halved if large
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Directions:
Preparing the Vegetables
Start by cleaning the mushrooms and removing any dirt with a damp cloth. Halve any larger mushrooms so they’re roughly the same size as the cherry tomatoes for even grilling. In a large bowl, combine the mushrooms and cherry tomatoes.
Making the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this marinade over the mushrooms and cherry tomatoes, tossing to ensure they’re evenly coated. Let the vegetables marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Prepping Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. A properly heated grill ensures that your mushrooms and tomatoes will cook evenly and develop a nice char.
Grilling the Mushrooms & Cherry Tomatoes
Place the marinated mushrooms and cherry tomatoes in the Braize Steel Grilling Basket, securing the lid. Place the basket on the grill and close the lid. Grill the vegetables for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for the mushrooms to be tender and the cherry tomatoes to be slightly blistered and caramelized.
Grilled vegetables are always a hit at my BBQs, but mushrooms and cherry tomatoes are a standout combo. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms paired with the sweet, juicy burst of the tomatoes is simply irresistible. This dish is quick, easy, and always gets rave reviews—perfect for those times when you want something impressive without a lot of fuss.
Serving Suggestions
Once the mushrooms and cherry tomatoes are perfectly grilled, carefully remove them from the basket and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness. These grilled vegetables are great on their own as a side dish, or you can add them to salads, pastas, or even top them on grilled bread for a delicious bruschetta.
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
- Absolutely! Shiitake, oyster, or maitake mushrooms would also work well and add a unique flavor to the dish.
-
What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
- You can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different but equally delicious flavor.
-
How can I add more flavor to the marinade?
- Adding a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can enhance the marinade’s depth and add an extra layer of flavor.
-
Can I make this recipe in advance?
- You can marinate the vegetables up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just grill them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
-
What other vegetables could I add to this dish?
- Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus would be great additions to this grilled veggie mix.
Ready to add a delicious side dish to your grilling repertoire?
Grilled Mushrooms & Cherry Tomatoes are a quick and easy side dish that’s packed with flavor. Fire up your grill and give this Grilled Mushrooms & Cherry Tomatoes recipe a try! Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media @CookingWithBraize. We’d love to see how you enjoy this tasty dish!