Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes
Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes are a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes with a creamy, savory filling of cottage cheese, mushrooms, and green onions. Perfect as a light appetizer or a side dish, they offer a burst of flavor and are ideal for health-conscious diners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, whip cottage cheese with lemon juice.
- In a large skillet, melt margarine.
- Add sliced mushrooms and green onions.
- Stir in the cottage cheese mixture and cook for about 5 minutes without boiling.
- Stuff the tomato shells with the mixture and bake in a preheated 375° oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. You can also add in some cooked spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a lighter option, use olive oil instead of margarine. Make sure to select firm, ripe tomatoes that can hold the filling without collapsing.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese stuffed tomatoes make a fantastic appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. Consider serving them alongside a main dish like Fried Venison for a complete meal. You can also drizzle a balsamic reduction over them for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using a microwave as it may make the tomatoes soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes contains roughly 327 calories, with 10g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make these stuffed tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the tomatoes a day in advance. Cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake them in the oven as directed. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.
What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
You can customize the filling by adding vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the mushrooms and onions before mixing with the cottage cheese. This not only enhances flavor but also adds more nutrients to the dish.
Are there any gluten-free options for the cracker meal?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cracker meal with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds for a gluten-free option. This ensures that everyone can enjoy this delightful dish without any dietary restrictions.
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).