Grilling isn’t just for steaks and burgers. Vegetables take on an entirely new depth of flavor when kissed by an open flame, and this recipe proves just how satisfying a meatless dish can be. Tomato-Portobello Stacks with Cheater’s Béarnaise offers layers of smoky, charred goodness with a nod to French-inspired indulgence.
Portobello mushrooms, thick and meaty in their own right, form the base of this stacked dish, absorbing every bit of fire-roasted richness. Grilled tomato slices add a burst of acidity, balancing out the earthy notes with a touch of sweetness. The final element—a creamy, herb-infused béarnaise—brings it all together. This “cheater’s” version simplifies the classic sauce without sacrificing its signature tang from shallots, tarragon, and vinegar. A final pass over the flames ensures every bite is warm, velvety, and infused with just the right edge of smokiness.
Enjoy the stacks on their own, or turn them into a hearty sandwich by serving them on a toasted ciabatta roll. Either way, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes and organic mushrooms to let natural flavors shine. Fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and enjoy a vibrant, flame-kissed creation as satisfying as any steak off the grates.
Serves: 6
Tomato-Portobello Stacks with Cheater’s Béarnaise Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp minced shallot
- 1 ½ Tbsp tarragon vinegar or white wine vinegar
- kosher salt
- pepper
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp minced tarragon
- extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
- 6 large Portobello mushrooms, stems discarded
- 1 one-pound beefsteak tomato, cored and cut crosswise into six 1/2-inch-thick slices
- thinly sliced scallions for garnish
Tomato-Portobello Stacks with Cheater’s Béarnaise Directions
- In a bowl, whisk the shallot and vinegar with a generous pinch each of salt and pepper; let stand for 5 minutes. Whisk in the mayonnaise, tarragon, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of water. Season the béarnaise sauce with salt and pepper.
- Light a grill and brush with oil. Brush the Portobello caps with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over moderately high heat, turning once, until lightly charred, 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Brush the tomato with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill, turning once, until lightly charred, 3 minutes total. Set the tomatoes on the Portobello’s.
- Spoon the béarnaise on the tomato slices. Transfer the stacks to the grill and close the grill. Cook over moderate heat until the sauce is just hot, 3 minutes. Transfer to plates, garnish with scallions, and serve.