Broiled French Tomatoes
Broiled French Tomatoes feature ripe tomatoes topped with garlic, bread crumbs, herbs, and cheese, delivering a savory, crispy, and cheesy side perfect for elegant or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes in half across the grain and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Mix crushed garlic, olive oil, and bread crumbs together.
- Place some of the mixture on the open face of each tomato half.
- Sprinkle dried basil on each tomato.
- Top each with about 1 teaspoon of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.
- Broil until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and heat the oven to 375°F.
- Heat the tomatoes for about 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, try roasting the garlic before mixing it with the breadcrumbs. You can substitute fresh basil with Italian seasoning if you don't have dried basil on hand. If you're looking for a crunchy topping, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Pair these tomatoes with a fresh salad for a quick healthy snack.
Serving Suggestions
These broiled French tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or side dish. Serve them alongside grilled meats or fish for a well-rounded meal. They also pair beautifully with Southern French Toast for a unique brunch option. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover broiled tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid using a microwave as it may make the tomatoes soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broiled French Tomatoes contains roughly 327 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 624mg per serving (27% 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 use different types of tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of tomatoes, such as heirloom or Roma, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on their size and moisture content. Choose tomatoes that are ripe for the best flavor.
Is it necessary to broil the tomatoes, or can I bake them?
Broiling gives the tomatoes a wonderful, caramelized top and a nice texture. However, if you prefer to bake them, set your oven to 375°F and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
What can I serve these tomatoes with?
Broiled French tomatoes are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. They pair well with grilled chicken or fish, and also complement Southern French Toast for a balanced meal. Consider adding a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
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).