Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Bright and cheesy rice-stuffed tomatoes feature fresh herbs and lemon, perfect as a light main or side dish for summer gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the pulp, keeping the skins intact.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with basil, salt, pepper, chopped chives, lemon juice, and oil.
- Fill each tomato shell with the rice mixture.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed tomato.
- Bake in the oven for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nice flavor boost, consider adding some cooked vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the rice mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute quinoa for rice. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the taste, while a dash of hot sauce can add some heat if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These rice stuffed tomatoes make a delightful main dish or a hearty side. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad, such as Roasted Beet, Carrot And Onion Salad, or serve them alongside Rosemary-Garlic Roasted Potatoes for a complete meal. A dollop of yogurt or a light vinaigrette can also complement the flavors wonderfully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but the oven will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Stuffed Tomatoes contains roughly 942 calories, with 3g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 963mg per serving (42% 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 different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a nice flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or feta for a tangy kick. Just keep in mind that the cheese should melt well if you want that gooey texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes in advance. Assemble them and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're cooking them straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with rice stuffed tomatoes?
These stuffed tomatoes are versatile! They pair well with Mediterranean recipes like Baba Ghannouj(Appetizer) for a complete meal. You can also serve them with a light grain salad or a simple green salad to balance the dish.
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).