Grilled Stuffed Tomatoes
Grilled stuffed tomatoes are a flavorful appetizer or side dish featuring tender tomatoes filled with a cheesy herb mixture. The combination of Parmesan, parsley, and seasoned bread crumbs creates a savory, crispy topping that pairs well with grilled flavors, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings or summer barbecues.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut a thin slice from the stem end of each tomato and remove the pulp to form shallow cups.
- Remove seeds and chop the tomato pulp.
- Combine the chopped pulp with 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley, and pepper.
- Fill the tomato cups with the mixture.
- Combine the bread crumbs, remaining Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
- Spoon the bread crumb mixture evenly over the filled tomatoes.
- Place the stuffed tomatoes in a disposable foil pan.
- Cover loosely with foil.
- Cook over medium coals for 15 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, try adding some cooked quinoa or rice to the stuffing mixture. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with feta for a different taste. If you’re short on time, use pre-made seasoned bread crumbs to save effort. For a more robust filling, consider mixing in finely diced bell peppers or olives.
Serving Suggestions
These grilled stuffed tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with Mediterranean recipes such as Ratatouille (Vegetable Stew) or can be served alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for added flavor, or serve with crusty bread to soak up any juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tomatoes mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Stuffed Tomatoes contains roughly 98 calories, with 5g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 prepare the stuffed tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomatoes and stuffing a few hours in advance. Just keep the filling separate until you're ready to stuff and grill them. This way, the tomatoes won't become too soggy before cooking.
What can I use instead of seasoned bread crumbs?
If you don’t have seasoned bread crumbs, you can make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with dried herbs like oregano and basil, or even crushed crackers. This allows you to control the flavor better and customize it to your taste.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, use gluten-free bread crumbs if needed, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
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).