Next in our 5 Course, Valentine’s Day journey: Grilled Romaine Hearts with Tomato Relish. Romaine lettuce has natural sugars that release when grilling, so not only does it enhance the flavor of the lettuce, the quick char gives it a sweet smokiness that pairs well with the fresh tomato relish, savory feta, and tangy vinaigrette.
GRILLED ROMAINE HEARTS WITH TOMATO RELISH
PREP TIME: about 10 minutes
COOK TIME: 3-5 minutes
RECOMMENDED PELLETS: Hickory or Apple
SERVES: 2
INGREDIENTS
2 romaine hearts
Relish:
1 pint Red Grape Tomatoes
1 pint Yellow Grape Tomatoes
½ cup Feta Cheese, crumbled
Dressing:
1 cup Rice Vinegar
1 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Tbsp. Smoked Paprika
1 tsp. Granulated Garlic
1 tsp. Onion Powder
1 tsp. Salt
½ tsp. Pepper
2 Tbsp. fresh Basil
1 Tbsp. Canola Oil
METHOD
- Prepare Relish: Slice the tomatoes in half, lengthwise, and toss with the Feta Cheese crumbles.
- Prepare Dressing: In a blender, combine the vinegar, paprika, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and basil. Gradually add in the extra virgin olive oil and blend until thoroughly combined.
- When ready to cook, start the Traeger grill on Smoke with the lid open until the fire is established (4 to 5 minutes). Set the temperature to High (450°F) and preheat the grill with the lid closed for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Cut the romaine hearts in half lengthwise. Lightly brush them with the canola oil. Place on the grill just until they have grill marks: remove promptly.
- Top with relish, drizzle with dressing and serve.
PRINTABLE RECIPE: