Stuffed Baked Tomatoes
Stuffed baked tomatoes offer a delightful combination of juicy tomatoes filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, beans, and bread crumbs. Perfect as a hearty side or vegetarian main, this dish boasts fresh flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to all ages, especially for those seeking a nutritious, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut a thin slice from the top of each tomato and scoop out the pulp with a large spoon.
- Mix the pulp with the remaining ingredients and let stand.
- Place the tomatoes carefully in an 8-inch greased baking dish.
- Fill each tomato carefully with the mixture.
- Top the filled tomatoes with bread crumbs and grated cheese or butter.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion and celery before mixing them with the tomato pulp and other ingredients. If you don't have fresh corn, canned or frozen corn can be a good substitute. You can also use any type of bread for the topping; whole grain or gluten-free options work well. Remember to season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed baked tomatoes are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a light Endive-Watercress Salad for a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside crusty bread or a simple quinoa pilaf to make it a complete meal. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding olives or feta cheese to the stuffing mix.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed 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 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but the texture may vary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Baked Tomatoes contains roughly 102 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1260mg per serving (55% 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 stuffed baked tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes a day in advance. Just assemble them, cover with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready, bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if necessary.
What can I use instead of lima beans?
If lima beans aren't available, you can substitute them with cooked chickpeas or black beans for a different texture and flavor. These alternatives will still provide a hearty component to the stuffed tomatoes.
Can I add protein to the stuffing?
Absolutely! For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked ground turkey, beef, or even crumbled sausage to the mixture. For a vegetarian option, lentils or quinoa can add protein while keeping the dish light and nutritious.
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).