Stuffed Tomatoes
Stuffed tomatoes are a delightful and colorful dish that combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes with a variety of delicious fillings. This recipe offers a savory blend of flavors and textures that make for a satisfying appetizer or a light main course.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply looking for a healthy yet flavorful dish, stuffed tomatoes can be a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as grains, meats, cheeses, and herbs, making them adaptable to various dietary preferences. With their vibrant appearance and delicious taste, stuffed tomatoes are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Stuffed Tomatoes:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes (beefsteak or any variety suitable for stuffing)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice, couscous, or bulgur)
- 1/2 cup cooked ground turkey or beef (optional, can be replaced with beans for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your choice of herbs)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or feta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
How to Make:
Prepare the Tomatoes:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the tomatoes and gently scoop out the insides using a spoon or a melon baller, being careful not to puncture the skin. Reserve the insides in a bowl for later use.
Make the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the reserved tomato pulp, corn, cooked quinoa, and ground turkey or beef (if using). Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and well combined.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.
Stuff the Tomatoes:
Carefully spoon the filling into each hollowed-out tomato, packing it in gently. Place the stuffed tomatoes upright in a baking dish. If they don’t stand on their own, you can slice a small amount off the bottom to create a flat base, being careful not to make holes.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each stuffed tomato.
Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the tomatoes are tender.
Serve:
Once done, remove the stuffed tomatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy your stuffed tomatoes warm as an appetizer or a light meal!
Chef’s Note:
Tomato Selection: Choose firm, ripe tomatoes that can hold their shape when stuffed. Beefsteak tomatoes are ideal for stuffing due to their size and structure, but any large variety will work.
Filling Variations: Feel free to customize the filling based on your preferences. You can use cooked lentils, beans, or vegetables like zucchini and spinach for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different spices, such as cumin or chili powder, to give it a unique twist.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the tomatoes and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions: Stuffed tomatoes pair well with a side salad or crusty bread, making them a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 230
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 10g
Stuffed tomatoes are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe offers a wonderful balance of textures and tastes that will make your meals more enjoyable. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy family dinner, stuffed tomatoes are a delightful way to celebrate the bounty of fresh produce. Enjoy this delightful dish, and let your creativity shine through in your choice of fillings!
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