Spinach Topped Tomatoes(Serves 6. Easy. Do Ahead.)
Delicious spinach-topped tomatoes featuring a savory herb stuffing and cheesy topping, perfect as a make-ahead appetizer or side dish for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach according to package instructions; drain well.
- Combine cooked spinach, stuffing, chopped onion, beaten eggs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic salt, thyme, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into small patties to fit on top of halved tomatoes.
- Place the patties on a cookie sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag for storage.
- To serve, place a patty on each tomato half, put in an oven preheated to 350°F, and bake for 20 minutes if thawed or 30 minutes if frozen.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using fresh spinach instead of frozen. You can also swap the Parmesan cheese for feta for a tangy twist. If you prefer added flavor, try incorporating sautéed garlic or shallots into the mixture. If you have extra stuffing, it can be baked separately as a delicious side dish. This recipe is a great example of American recipes that utilize simple ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spinach topped tomatoes as a delightful appetizer or side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. They pair beautifully with Dot'S Apple Cake for a sweet finish to your meal. For a more substantial dish, consider serving them with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up any juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach topped 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 15-20 minutes until heated through. If you have frozen patties, they can be stored in a freezer bag for up to 3 months and cooked directly from frozen.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Topped Tomatoes(Serves 6. Easy. Do Ahead.) contains roughly 279 calories, with 11g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. It also contributes 11g 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 spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used! Make sure to cook it down and drain off any excess moisture to avoid a soggy mixture. You'll need about 10 ounces of fresh spinach to replace the frozen package.
How do I know when the patties are cooked through?
The patties are done when they are golden brown on top and heated through. If using frozen patties, ensure they are cooked for the full 30 minutes to achieve the desired texture. You can also use a food thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Just freeze them until solid and then transfer to a bag for storage. When ready to serve, simply thaw and bake as instructed.
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).