Baked Tomatoes Provencale
Juicy tomatoes topped with garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. A flavorful, light dish perfect as a main or side for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the tomatoes across the top and scoop out the seeds.
- Mix together chopped shallots, garlic, chopped parsley, basil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place the tomatoes cut side up on a baking sheet.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle the herb and garlic mixture over the tomatoes, then add breadcrumbs on top.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the assembled tomatoes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes, which offer a variety of tastes. You can substitute fresh herbs with dried ones, using one-third the amount. If you want a bit more crunch, try adding some chopped nuts to the breadcrumb mixture. To make this dish vegan, simply omit the olive oil drizzle or replace it with a vegan alternative.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Tomatoes Provençale make a delightful appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with grilled chicken or fish and can be served alongside Tabooley (Wheat Garden Salad) for a refreshing contrast. Consider a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor or serving them with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Baked Tomatoes Provençale can be stored 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 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this may make the tomatoes mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Tomatoes Provencale contains roughly 96 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 461mg per serving (20% 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 prepare these tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the tomatoes by scooping out the seeds and filling them with the herb mixture a few hours in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld together.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs aren't available, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. For example, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, use about 2 teaspoons of dried basil.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese on top of the breadcrumbs before baking can enhance the flavor. Just keep in mind that adding cheese will make the dish non-vegan if you're following a vegan diet.
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).