Baked Tomatoes With Spinach
Baked tomatoes with spinach offer a flavorful, nutritious side with toasted breadcrumbs and herbs, perfect for a light lunch or elegant dinner accompaniment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place tomatoes in a shallow baking dish, cut side down.
- Mix chopped onion, parsley, butter, cooked spinach, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Divide the mixture evenly and spread over the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top of each tomato.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 minutes or until crumbs are toasted and tomatoes are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the butter with olive oil for a healthier option. You can also mix in some grated cheese like Parmesan or feta into the filling for a richer taste. If you have fresh spinach, use it instead of cooked spinach, but make sure to sauté it first to reduce moisture. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These baked tomatoes make a delightful side dish and pair well with grilled meats or fish. They can also be served alongside a fresh salad or as part of a Mediterranean meal. For a complete vegetarian option, serve them with some quinoa or a slice of Grilled Cheese Bread for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the breadcrumbs may not retain their crispiness. Enjoy them as a quick snack or a flavorful addition to salads.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Tomatoes With Spinach contains roughly 73 calories, with 7g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1267mg per serving (55% 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 baked tomatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes ahead of time. Assemble them up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven to bake. This makes for a convenient side dish for gatherings or busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of tomatoes?
If you're looking for an alternative to tomatoes, consider using bell peppers or zucchini. They can be hollowed out and stuffed with the same filling. This variation still provides a delicious and healthy dish while changing up the flavor and presentation.
Can I freeze baked tomatoes?
While it's possible to freeze baked tomatoes, it's best to do so before baking. Stuff the tomatoes, then freeze them. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This ensures they maintain their texture and flavor.
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).