Green Tomato Bars
Green Tomato Bars offer a tangy-sweet flavor combo with oats and walnuts, perfect for a unique dessert or snack that showcases fresh green tomatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the chopped green tomatoes on paper towels for 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine the drained tomatoes, 1 cup of brown sugar, and lemon juice.
- Simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon extract.
- Preheat oven and prepare a baking pan as needed.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter with remaining 1 cup of brown sugar.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Stir in old-fashioned oats and chopped walnuts.
- Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of a prepared baking pan.
- Spread the cooked tomato mixture evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the tomato mixture. If you prefer a nut-free option, you can substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds. Ensure the tomatoes are well-drained to prevent a soggy crust. This recipe can also be adapted by using ripe tomatoes if green ones are unavailable, resulting in a sweeter bar.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also make a unique addition to a brunch spread alongside dishes like Low-Fat Tuna Salad With Fresh Dill. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Green Tomato Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place bars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, maintaining their texture and flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Tomato Bars contains roughly 509 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 726mg per serving (32% 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?
Yes, ripe tomatoes can be used, but they will yield a sweeter bar. Adjust the brown sugar to taste, as ripe tomatoes are naturally sweeter than green ones. Cooking times may also vary slightly, so keep an eye on the consistency of the filling.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Green Tomato Bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
Can I freeze the Green Tomato Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the bars to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
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).