Baked Tomato And Spinach
A savory baked dish featuring tender tomatoes filled with a flavorful spinach and onion mixture, topped with breadcrumbs and eggs. Perfect as a vegetarian main or side, it offers a comforting blend of fresh and savory flavors that appeal to family gatherings and special dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet and sauté minced onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add thawed and drained chopped spinach to the skillet and cook briefly.
- Remove from heat and stir in breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, and salt.
- Stuff the spinach mixture into the halved tomatoes and place them in a baking dish.
- Refrigerate the assembled dish for a couple of hours to set.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes until golden and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding grated cheese such as Parmesan or mozzarella to the spinach mixture. You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen, but be sure to sauté it until wilted and excess moisture is removed. If you're short on time, try using canned tomatoes instead of fresh; just adjust baking time accordingly. This dish can also be enhanced with herbs like basil or oregano for an extra Mediterranean touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked tomatoes alongside a simple green salad for a light meal, or pair with garlic bread for a heartier option. They also go well with Mediterranean recipes like Stuffed Eggplant And Tomatoes(Taua) or a side of quinoa for added protein. For a complete dinner, consider serving with Soft Bread Sticks(For Bread Machine) to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed tomatoes in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method retains the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Tomato And Spinach contains roughly 745 calories, with 18g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2826mg per serving (123% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes a day in advance. Simply assemble them, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you want to make this dish dairy-free or reduce saturated fat, consider using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Both will provide a nice flavor and help sauté the onions and garlic effectively. Coconut oil is another option that can add a slight sweetness to the dish.
Can I freeze the baked tomatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the baked tomatoes after they have cooled completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).