Nutty-Topped Tomatoes
Nutty-Topped Tomatoes offer a savory combination of roasted tomatoes topped with cheddar, bread crumbs, and peanuts, perfect as a flavorful side dish for casual or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush tomato skins with oil.
- Place the tomato halves, cut side up, in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the tomatoes with salt and set aside.
- Combine shredded Cheddar cheese, dried bread crumbs, chopped peanuts, melted butter, dried leaf basil, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl.
- Spoon the mixture onto the tomatoes.
- Bake for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheese such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack alongside the Cheddar. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, substitute the butter with olive oil or a light margarine. You can also swap the peanuts for chopped walnuts or almonds to vary the texture and taste. Make sure to adjust the salt based on your cheese's saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
These Nutty-Topped Tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or side dish. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh salad. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve with a side of quinoa or couscous. Consider complementing the dish with a tangy dipping sauce or a side of Rosie'S No Fat Fries for a satisfying contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Nutty-Topped 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 (175°C) for about 10 minutes to ensure they regain their crispiness without drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quick option, but the texture might not be as optimal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nutty-Topped Tomatoes contains roughly 596 calories, with 13g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g 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 fresh herbs instead of dried basil?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh basil for a more vibrant flavor. Generally, you would use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, so aim for 2-3 teaspoons of chopped fresh basil. Just add it to the cheese mixture before spooning it onto the tomatoes.
What can I substitute for the peanuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a substitute for the peanuts. They will provide a similar crunch without the risk of allergens. Alternatively, crushed crackers or crispy fried onions can also add texture.
How do I know when the tomatoes are done baking?
The tomatoes are done when the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly, which usually takes about 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). You can also check if the tomatoes are tender by inserting a fork; they should be soft but not mushy.
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).