Cheese Fried Green Tomatoes
Crispy, cheesy fried green tomatoes offer a tangy and savory snack or appetizer with a crunchy coating and rich Parmesan flavor, perfect for Southern comfort or entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cornmeal, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, just enough to cover the bottom.
- Coat sliced green tomatoes in the cornmeal, flour, and cheese mixture.
- Fry the coated tomato slices until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain well on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne to the cornmeal mixture. If you want a lighter version, replace half of the cornmeal with crushed cornflakes. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or a spicy pepper jack, for a twist on this classic Southern dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious cheese fried green tomatoes as an appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with a dipping sauce like ranch or a homemade Sour Cream Sauce For Veggies. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside grilled chicken or fish, or even as a topping on a fresh salad for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried green tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Fried Green Tomatoes contains roughly 435 calories, with 9g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 658mg 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 ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
While you can use ripe tomatoes, they won't provide the same tart flavor and firm texture as green tomatoes. Green tomatoes are firmer and hold up better during frying, making them ideal for this recipe. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you might consider using a mix of both.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make cheese fried green tomatoes gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the cornmeal you use is also certified gluten-free. The other ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, so with these substitutions, you can enjoy this dish without gluten.
What can I serve with cheese fried green tomatoes?
Cheese fried green tomatoes are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. They go well with fried chicken, pulled pork, or even as part of a vegetarian meal alongside a hearty salad. You could also serve them with a side of grits or potatoes for a Southern-inspired feast.
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).