Baked Tomato "Sandwiches" With Montrachet(Yields 24 Servings)
Delight in these baked tomato sandwiches filled with herby goat cheese mixture, offering a creamy, savory flavor perfect for brunch or light lunch gatherings.
Ingredients
- 13 (8 oz.) tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 lb. Montrachet goat cheese, softened ⓘ
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup heavy cream ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- 1/4 cup chopped basil ⓘ
- 4 eggs, lightly beaten ⓘ
- 1 quart dry bread crumbs ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups butter ⓘ
- 1/2 cup olive oil ⓘ
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar ⓘ
- 6 quarts mixed baby lettuces ⓘ
Instructions
- Cut tomatoes into 48 (1/2-inch) slices; reserve.
- Combine Montrachet and cream cheese until well mixed.
- Add heavy cream, chopped chives, and chopped basil to the cheese mixture.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of cheese mixture on 24 reserved tomato slices.
- Top with remaining tomato slices to make sandwiches.
- Dip sandwiches in beaten eggs.
- Coat sandwiches with dry bread crumbs.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until the cheese is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. If Montrachet cheese is unavailable, a creamy goat cheese or a soft feta can be good substitutes. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure the tomatoes are ripe for the best taste and texture. A sprinkle of salt on the tomatoes before assembling can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
These baked tomato sandwiches are delightful served warm as an appetizer or light lunch. Pair with a mixed green salad, like a simple arugula and lemon vinaigrette, for a refreshing contrast. They also complement a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of soup, such as a creamy tomato basil soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bread crumbs are crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Tomato "Sandwiches" With Montrachet(Yields 24 Servings) contains roughly 1044 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 prepare the sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sandwiches up to the refrigeration step. After assembling, cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to allow extra time for baking if they are chilled.
What other herbs can I use in this recipe?
You can customize the herb blend according to your taste. Fresh parsley, dill, or oregano would work well. Feel free to experiment with different combinations or even add a touch of heat with some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can make it even more wholesome by adding layers of sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms in between the tomato slices. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
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).