Herb-Baked Tomatoes
Herb-baked tomatoes feature tender wedges topped with seasoned breadcrumbs and herbs, creating a flavorful side dish perfect for light meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat a 10 x 6 x 2-inch baking dish with vegetable cooking spray.
- Arrange the tomato wedges in the prepared dish.
- In a small bowl, combine Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, melted margarine, ground coriander, pepper, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and ground cumin, stirring well.
- Sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumb mixture over the tomatoes.
- Bake uncovered at 425°F for 5 minutes or until tomatoes are thoroughly heated and topping is lightly browned.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour mixed with Italian herbs. If you can't find ground coriander, ground cumin can be used as an alternative. For added flavor, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic reduction over the tomatoes before serving. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, especially if using different types of tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these herb-baked tomatoes as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. They pair beautifully with Green Peas With Tomatoes And Mint for a fresh contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding a crisp salad or crusty bread. These tomatoes also make a great topping for pasta or quinoa dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover herb-baked tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb-Baked Tomatoes contains roughly 196 calories, with 9g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (187% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 6g 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 use different herbs for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for parsley, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme. Fresh herbs will provide a brighter flavor, while dried herbs can be used if fresh isn't available. Just remember to adjust the quantity, as dried herbs are often more potent than fresh.
What type of tomatoes work best for baking?
Medium-sized tomatoes, such as Roma or vine-ripened varieties, are ideal for baking due to their firm texture and lower moisture content. These types hold their shape well and develop great flavor when roasted. Avoid using overly ripe tomatoes, as they may become mushy when baked.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the seasoned breadcrumb mixture and layer the tomatoes in the baking dish a few hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just remember to bring the dish to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).