Caramelized Tomatoes
Sweet and savory caramelized tomatoes featuring toasted bread and a hint of brown sugar, perfect for brunch or a light appetizer with rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the tomatoes from the blossom and remove the pulp.
- Place the tomatoes in a baking pan.
- Remove the crust from the bread and cube it.
- Combine the bread cubes with the tomato pulp, melted brown sugar, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Fill the tomato shells with the mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using heirloom tomatoes or adding herbs like basil or thyme to the filling. If you're out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. Additionally, consider using gluten-free bread to make this a gluten-free dish. For a twist, you could also add some cheese to the filling for a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
These caramelized tomatoes make an excellent side dish for roasted meats or a fresh salad like Potato Cucumber Salad. They can also be served as a light appetizer topped with a sprinkle of feta cheese. For a complete meal, pair them with crusty bread or serve alongside Rhubarb Strawberry Rolls for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover caramelized tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. They can also be microwaved for a quicker option, though the texture may differ slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramelized Tomatoes contains roughly 274 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 675mg per serving (29% 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 Roma or cherry tomatoes. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape when baked. The flavor will vary slightly, but the recipe will still be delicious.
What can I do if I don't have bread on hand?
If you don't have bread, you can substitute with cooked quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free option. This will give a different texture but will still absorb the flavors of the filling effectively.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed tomatoes and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).