Stuffed Tomatoes: A Flavor-Packed Recipe for a Delicious Meal

Introduction

Stuffed tomatoes are a timeless dish that never fails to impress, both in flavor and presentation. Whether you're preparing a light lunch, a dinner party appetizer, or a healthy main course, this recipe is versatile and easy to make. For me, stuffed tomatoes bring back memories of family gatherings, where the table was filled with vibrant colors and flavors from fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and wholesome grains. It's a dish that has always held a special place in my heart, combining simplicity with rich taste.

What makes stuffed tomatoes truly special is their ability to be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. You can fill them with a wide range of ingredients, from grains like quinoa and rice to vegetables, cheeses, or even proteins like ground meat or beans. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes pairs perfectly with savory fillings, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. Plus, they’re a great way to use up any leftover ingredients in your kitchen.

This recipe for stuffed tomatoes is perfect for those looking to enjoy a wholesome, vegetarian-friendly meal that's both nutritious and delicious. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite in my household, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Stuffed Tomatoes

Brief Description

This stuffed tomatoes recipe features ripe, juicy tomatoes filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, herbs, and vegetables, then baked to perfection. The result is a healthy and flavorful dish that’s perfect as a main course or a side.

Ingredients List

• For the Stuffed Tomatoes:
• 6 large ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Substitutions

You can easily swap out the quinoa for rice, couscous, or even bulgur. For a heartier option, you can add ground meat, tofu, or beans to the filling. If you prefer a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, being careful not to puncture the walls of the tomatoes. Set the tomato flesh aside in a bowl.
2. Make the filling: In a pan over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper in a drizzle of olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the cooked quinoa, tomato flesh, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
3. Stuff the tomatoes: Spoon the quinoa mixture into the hollowed-out tomatoes, pressing the filling down gently. If using cheese, sprinkle some on top of each stuffed tomato.
4. Bake the tomatoes: Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the stuffed tomatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This stuffed tomatoes recipe serves 4-6 people and makes a great vegetarian main course. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, pair the stuffed tomatoes with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of crisp white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of stuffed tomatoes contains approximately:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 7g

Storage and Reheating

Leftover stuffed tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the tomatoes may become a bit softer. Stuffed tomatoes can also be frozen—just place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of grain for the filling?

Yes, you can use any type of grain you prefer, such as rice, couscous, or bulgur. Just make sure the grain is fully cooked before adding it to the filling mixture.

Can I add meat to the stuffing?

Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or chicken can be browned and added to the filling for a heartier version of stuffed tomatoes. Simply cook the meat along with the onions and bell peppers before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes up to a day in advance. Simply stuff the tomatoes, cover them, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake them. When it's time to cook, follow the baking instructions as usual.

Conclusion

Stuffed tomatoes are a versatile and flavorful dish that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're serving them as a vegetarian main course or as a side dish, they’re sure to impress. The combination of juicy tomatoes and savory filling creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

If you try this stuffed tomatoes recipe, we'd love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below with your feedback, and don’t forget to follow our blog for more delicious recipes like this one. Happy cooking!