Luncheon Tomatoes
Crispy, savory fried tomato slices layered with flavored cream cheese, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and slice tomatoes into medium thickness slices.
- Spread one tomato slice with olive and pimento or chive cream cheese.
- Top with a second tomato slice.
- Dip the assembled tomato slices into beaten egg, then into flour mixed with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil to medium temperature.
- Fry the tomato slices on both sides until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use firm, ripe tomatoes that are in season. If you want a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of the cream cheese. You can also experiment with different herbs or spices in the flour mixture for added flavor. For a twist, try adding a touch of garlic powder or using whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these luncheon tomatoes as a delightful appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or a light dipping sauce like ranch or tzatziki. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or fish. You can also explore more vegetarian recipes to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried tomato slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Luncheon Tomatoes contains roughly 34 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1752mg per serving (76% 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 make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato sandwiches ahead of time but it's best to fry them just before serving to retain their crispiness. If you need to prep in advance, assemble the sandwiches and cover them tightly in the refrigerator, then fry them when you're ready to serve.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to cream cheese, you can use hummus for a different flavor profile or even avocado for a creamy texture. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs can also work well, giving a refreshing twist to the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just ensure that the flour is certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. This will allow you to enjoy the recipe without compromising on flavor or texture.
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).