Baked Tomato
Baked Tomato is a simple, flavorful dish featuring ripe tomatoes topped with herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a light side or appetizer, it highlights fresh ingredients and aromatic seasonings, appealing to those seeking healthy, savory flavors with a tender, roasted texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes in half and place them in a shallow baking pan, flat side up.
- Combine the minced garlic, tarragon, basil, and Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over the tomatoes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, or try substituting the tarragon with oregano. You can also replace the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking. This dish can also be made with heirloom tomatoes for a colorful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Baked tomatoes make a delightful side dish and pair beautifully with grilled meats or fish. They also complement Mediterranean recipes well, especially when served alongside a refreshing *Orzo Salad. For a vegetarian option, serve them with a crusty bread and a side of Yogurt Herb Dressing. They can also be enjoyed as a light main course with a green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, but they may lose some texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Tomato contains roughly 136 calories, with 6g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value) and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
While fresh tomatoes yield the best flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute in a pinch. Drain them well and follow the same baking instructions, but reduce the baking time to about 20 minutes since they are already softened.
What can I do with leftover baked tomatoes?
Leftover baked tomatoes can be used in various ways. Chop them up and incorporate them into pasta dishes, or blend them into a sauce. They can also be added to sandwiches or salads for extra flavor. Try tossing them with some fresh greens for a quick lunch option.
How can I enhance the flavor of the baked tomatoes?
You can enhance the flavor of baked tomatoes by drizzling them with balsamic glaze before serving or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also elevate the dish. Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavor profiles.
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).