Green Tomatoes Parmesan
Crispy green tomato slices coated with Parmesan and seasoned cornmeal, fried to golden perfection—an irresistible appetizer or side dish with bold, savory flavors suited for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly sprinkle tomato slices with salt and drain on paper towels for 30-60 minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine cornmeal, Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic salt, oregano, and pepper in a shallow plate.
- Dip each tomato slice into beaten egg, then into the cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- In a medium skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the coated tomato slices, a few at a time, for 2 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Drain the fried tomatoes on a paper towel-lined wire rack.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of cornmeal. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for varied flavors. Make sure to press the seasoning mixture firmly onto the tomatoes to ensure it sticks during frying. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper to the cornmeal mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy green tomatoes as an appetizer with a side of ranch or spicy dipping sauce. They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad or can be used as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled meats. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a slice of Aunt Sharon'S Pumpkin Nut Loaf for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried green tomatoes can be stored 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 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Tomatoes Parmesan contains roughly 221 calories, with 6g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (124% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and calcium (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1483mg per serving (64% 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 will be softer and may not hold their shape as well during frying. Green tomatoes have a firmer texture and a slightly tart flavor that works best for this recipe.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil or even olive oil. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but they all work well for frying. Just ensure that the oil has a high smoke point for best results.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the cornmeal is certified gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the crispy texture without the gluten.
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).