Broiled Blue Cheese Tomatoes

01Method

1. 1

   Position an oven rack 4 to 5 inches below the broiler element and preheat the broiler.

2. 2

   In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the panko crumbs and garlic powder. Cook, stirring, until the crumbs turn just barely golden, about 1 to 2 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat.

3. 3

   Halve the tomatoes lengthwise and arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Brush the cut surfaces with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Broil until the tomatoes are heated through and lightly browned, about 3 minutes.

4. 4

   Break up any large pieces of blue cheese and scatter it over the tomatoes, then spoon the toasted crumb mixture on top. Return to the broiler until the cheese has melted and the crumbs are deep golden, about 1 minute more — keep a close eye on them, as the crumbs can burn very quickly.