Kathy'S Tomatoes Florentine
A delightful baked tomato dish filled with seasoned spinach and topped with Parmesan cheese, perfect as an elegant appetizer or light entrée for spinach lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute green onions in butter until tender.
- Add cooked, seasoned spinach to the onion mixture and blend well.
- Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
- Fill each tomato with the spinach mixture.
- Top each filled tomato with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, until heated through and cheese is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mixture. If fresh spinach is available, you can substitute it for the frozen; just use about 10 ounces. When choosing tomatoes, opt for firm varieties like Roma or vine-ripened for the best texture. This dish can also be made vegetarian-friendly by ensuring the Parmesan is rennet-free.
Serving Suggestions
These tomatoes florentine make a delightful appetizer or side dish, pairing beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. They can also serve as a main dish when accompanied by a protein like grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Wild Apple Cornbread for a comforting touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 microwaving, as it may make the tomatoes soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kathy'S Tomatoes Florentine contains roughly 1425 calories, with 7g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 151g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 689mg per serving (30% 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 fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen. You'll need about 10 ounces of fresh spinach. Simply sauté it until wilted, then chop and mix it with the green onions before stuffing the tomatoes. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
For stuffed tomatoes, firm varieties like Roma, vine-ripened, or beefsteak tomatoes work best. They hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice balance of flavor. Avoid overripe or soft tomatoes, as they may collapse when baked.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach mixture and stuff the tomatoes a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining, allowing you to save time on the day of your gathering.
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).