Name: Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 small round tomatoes; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; sea salt and freshly ground pepper; 4 oz log mild goat cheese; fennel pollen

Indulge in this delightful flavor fusion of broiled tomatoes and goat cheese, topped with a sprinkle of fennel pollen. This simple yet sophisticated dish is perfect for the summer season, bringing together the tangy freshness of tomatoes with the creamy richness of goat cheese and the unique, sweet aroma of fennel pollen.

Photos of Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common, fennel pollen might not be readily available in every household. Fennel pollen is a spice derived from wild fennel flowers and it possesses a sweet, honey-like flavor with a hint of licorice. It can be found in gourmet food stores or ordered online. Another key ingredient is goat cheese, which you can find in the dairy or cheese aisle of your local supermarket.

Ingredients for Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen

Tomatoes: The main star of the dish, adding a healthy, juicy base with a hint of natural sweetness and acid.

Extra virgin olive oil: Used for broiling and adding a depth of flavor. Opt for a high-quality variety for the best taste.

Sea salt and freshly ground pepper: To bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Goat cheese: A soft, tangy cheese that melts beautifully under the broiler.

Fennel pollen: A unique spice adding a sweet, honey-like flavor with a hint of licorice.

One reader, Abe Francis says:

The broiled tomatoes with goat cheese and fennel pollen recipe is a delightful burst of flavors. The juicy tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and aromatic fennel pollen create a harmonious blend. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for a light, flavorful appetizer or a side dish. Highly recommended!

Abe Francis

Key Techniques for Perfecting This Recipe

How to broil the tomatoes: Preheat the broiler and arrange the tomatoes, cut side up, in a broiler pan. Drizzle each tomato half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Broil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until sizzling and browned.

How to top the tomatoes with goat cheese and fennel pollen: After broiling the tomatoes, top each tomato half with a slice of goat cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of fennel pollen. Broil for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the goat cheese is golden.

How to serve the broiled tomatoes: Transfer the tomatoes to a platter with a spatula and serve them warm. They can be served with grilled country bread or alongside grilled sausages, lamb chops, or steak.

How To Make Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen

Level up your usual broiled tomatoes with this flavorful side dish! It’s tossed in soft goat cheese and a citrusy-sweet fennel pollen, for a unique taste.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 8 minutes

Total: 18 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4small round tomatoes
¼cupextra virgin olive oil
sea salt and freshly ground pepper
4ozmild goat cheese,(1 log)
fennel pollen

Instructions

Preheat the broiler.
Arrange the tomatoes, cut side up, in a broiler pan. Drizzle each tomato half with ½ teaspoon of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Broil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until sizzling and browned. Remove from the oven and top each tomato half with a slice of goat cheese, 1 teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of fennel pollen.
Broil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the goat cheese is golden. Transfer the tomatoes to a platter with a spatula.
Serve warm with bread or sausages, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 217.56kcal
Fat: 19.74g
Saturated Fat: 6.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.67g
Carbohydrates: 5.10g
Fiber: 1.60g
Sugar: 3.24g
Protein: 6.38g
Cholesterol: 13.04mg
Sodium: 384.50mg
Calcium: 54.47mg
Potassium: 305.64mg
Iron: 1.00mg
Vitamin A: 133.44µg
Vitamin C: 16.85mg

Mastering the Art of Broiling Tomatoes

When broiling tomatoes, it's important to keep a close eye on them as they can quickly go from perfectly broiled to burnt. The high heat of the broiler can cause the sugars in the tomatoes to caramelize quickly, leading to a potential burn if not monitored. Also, to enhance the flavor of the fennel pollen, you can lightly toast it in a dry pan over low heat before sprinkling it on the goat cheese. This will release the aromatic oils and make the flavor more pronounced.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the tomatoes broil, prepare the accompanying dish or side to save time.

Use quality tools: Invest in good kitchen tools and appliances to make cooking more efficient.

Organize ingredients: Arrange all the ingredients and utensils in an orderly manner before starting the recipe.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid unnecessary steps and save time.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes while cooking to minimize post-cooking cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen Recipe

tomatoes - Substitute with plum tomatoes: Plum tomatoes are slightly firmer and have fewer seeds, making them a suitable alternative for broiling.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good choice for broiling.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt adds a similar depth of flavor and mineral content to the dish.
freshly ground pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
mild goat cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the tomatoes well.
fennel pollen - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander offers a slightly citrusy and floral flavor, similar to fennel pollen, enhancing the dish's aroma and taste.

Elevate Your Presentation with These Tips

Elevate the tomato halves: Gently arrange the broiled tomato halves on the plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Artfully drizzle olive oil: Use a steady hand to drizzle the extra virgin olive oil in a circular motion around the tomatoes, creating an elegant and appetizing presentation.
Sprinkle fennel pollen with precision: Carefully sprinkle the fennel pollen over the goat cheese-topped tomatoes, ensuring an even distribution for a visually stunning finish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with a few delicate sprigs of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, strategically placed around the tomatoes.
Plate with attention to detail: Pay close attention to the overall presentation, ensuring that the plate is clean, and the arrangement of the tomatoes, cheese, and garnishes is visually captivating.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese

Broiler pan: A shallow pan with a slotted top used for broiling food in the oven.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a wide, flat blade, often used for lifting or flipping food items.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and broiling food.
Knife: A tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
Measuring spoon: A spoon used to measure an amount of an ingredient, typically in small quantities.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and broiling.
Broiler: A separate compartment in an oven used for broiling food.
Grater: A tool used to grate or shred ingredients such as cheese or vegetables.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
Olive oil dispenser: A container used for dispensing olive oil.
Cheese knife: A specialized knife used for cutting and serving cheese.
Food brush: A brush used for applying oil or other liquids to food items.
Platter: A large, flat dish used for serving food.

How To Reheat Leftover Broiled Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover broiled tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the goat cheese is melted and the tomatoes are heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the dish while gently reheating it.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use your microwave. Place the leftover tomatoes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until the goat cheese is melted and the tomatoes are warm. Be careful not to overheat the dish, as it may cause the tomatoes to become mushy and the goat cheese to lose its texture.
For a crispy twist, reheat the leftover broiled tomatoes under the broiler. Preheat your broiler to high and place the tomatoes on a broiler-safe pan. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the goat cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the tomatoes to prevent burning.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the leftover broiled tomatoes. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tomatoes on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the goat cheese is melted and the tomatoes are heated through. This method is perfect for smaller portions and helps to maintain the texture of the dish.
For a stovetop reheating option, place the leftover broiled tomatoes in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the goat cheese is melted and the tomatoes are warmed through. This method allows you to reheat the dish gently and evenly without the need for an oven or microwave.

Fascinating Fact About Fennel Pollen

Fennel pollen is a highly aromatic spice that adds a unique and flavorful touch to dishes. It is often used in Mediterranean cuisine and pairs exceptionally well with goat cheese and tomatoes.

Budget-Friendly: Making Broiled Tomatoes at Home

The cost-effectiveness of this broiled tomatoes with goat cheese and fennel pollen recipe depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in your area. The use of simple, fresh ingredients like tomatoes, goat cheese, and olive oil can make it a relatively cost-effective dish. However, the price of fennel pollen may vary, impacting the overall cost. Considering the flavor and quality of the dish, it's a delightful addition to any meal. On a scale of 1-10, the overall verdict for this recipe is 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, making it a reasonable choice for a flavorful and elegant dish.

Is This Broiled Tomato Dish Healthy?

The broiled tomatoes with goat cheese and fennel pollen recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but it does have some aspects that could be improved upon. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's nutritional profile:

Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant.
Goat cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, but it is also high in saturated fat and sodium.
Olive oil is a healthy fat that provides monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, but the recipe calls for a significant amount (1/4 cup).
Fennel pollen is a unique ingredient that adds flavor and may have some digestive benefits, but it is used in small amounts and doesn't significantly contribute to the overall nutritional value.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used to cut down on the overall calorie and fat content. You can achieve similar results by lightly brushing the tomatoes with oil instead of drizzling it.
Opt for a low-fat or reduced-sodium goat cheese to decrease the saturated fat and sodium content. Alternatively, you could use a smaller amount of regular goat cheese to maintain flavor while reducing the less healthy components.
Incorporate more herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or garlic, to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or oil.
Serve the broiled tomatoes alongside a variety of colorful vegetables or a leafy green salad to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal.
Choose whole grain or sprouted grain bread for serving to add fiber and additional nutrients to the dish.

Editor's Take on This Delightful Tomato Dish

The broiled tomatoes with goat cheese and fennel pollen recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy goat cheese, while the fennel pollen adds a subtle hint of aromatic complexity. The broiling process caramelizes the tomatoes and creates a lovely contrast to the creamy goat cheese. This dish is versatile and can be served as an elegant appetizer or as a side dish to complement a variety of main courses. It's a simple yet sophisticated dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Enhance Your Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus: Toss the asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until tender and slightly charred. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright and fresh flavor.

Roasted Potatoes: Toss the potatoes in garlic-infused olive oil, rosemary, and sea salt, then roast until crispy and golden brown. The perfect hearty side dish to complement the rich flavors of the broiled tomatoes with goat cheese and fennel pollen.

Crispy Polenta Fries: Slice the polenta into fries, coat in cornmeal, and bake until crispy. These crunchy fries are a unique and delicious accompaniment to the creamy goat cheese and sweet broiled tomatoes.

Explore These Tempting Alternatives to Broiled Tomatoes

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Grill until cooked through and serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

Mango Avocado Salad with Citrus Dressing: Toss together diced mango, avocado, red onion, and mixed greens. Drizzle with a citrus dressing made from orange juice, lime juice, and honey.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Sauté mushrooms and onions in butter, then add Arborio rice and chicken broth. Stir in cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy and serve hot.

Baked Apple Crisp: Mix sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar, then top with a mixture of oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter. Bake until golden and serve with vanilla ice cream.

Perfect Pairings: Main Courses and Desserts to Complement Broiled Tomatoes

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty citrus and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a light and flavorful main course.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a savory filling with ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices to stuff inside colorful bell peppers. Bake until tender and top with melted cheese for a satisfying and hearty meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will leave your guests craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying dessert. The combination of sweet, tart, and crunchy elements creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with fresh, ripe tomatoes that are broiled to perfection, creating a burst of flavor. The mild goat cheese adds a creamy and tangy element, complemented by the aromatic touch of fennel pollen. The use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste and texture. With a careful balance of flavors and textures, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying dish that will surely impress your taste buds.

Want to share your experience making this Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese and Fennel Pollen Recipe or discuss variations? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Try using feta, mozzarella, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

What can I use as a substitute for fennel pollen?

If you don't have fennel pollen, you can substitute it with a pinch of ground fennel seeds or a sprinkle of dried oregano for a similar aromatic flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While the tomatoes are best served fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Broil the tomatoes and store them in the refrigerator, then add the goat cheese and fennel pollen just before serving.

Can I use larger tomatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use larger tomatoes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden. Keep an eye on them while broiling to prevent burning.

What can I serve with broiled tomatoes with goat cheese and fennel pollen?

These tomatoes pair wonderfully with grilled country bread, sausages, lamb chops, or steak. The savory and tangy flavors complement a variety of main dishes.