Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes With Shrimp
Bright cherry tomatoes filled with a savory shrimp mixture, accented by fresh herbs and lemon, perfect for light appetizers or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 2 cups of unsalted water to a boil in a medium-sized heavy saucepan.
- Add the shrimp and cook, uncovered, for 3 minutes or until they turn pink.
- Drain the shrimp and let them cool.
- Place the cooled shrimp in a food processor and whirl for 1 minute.
- Transfer the processed shrimp to a small bowl and mix in the minced parsley, minced chives, lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator before serving.
- Cut the tops off the cherry tomatoes and carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp.
- Fill each tomato with the shrimp mixture and serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider using crab or scallops instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried parsley and chives can be substituted, but use them sparingly. To enhance the dish, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top before serving. This recipe is a great way to use up extra cherry tomatoes from summer gardens.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed cherry tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or light lunch, especially on warm days. Pair them with a refreshing salad or serve alongside crusty bread. They also complement seafood recipes well, such as cioppino or fish in tomato sauce. For an elegant touch, garnish with additional parsley or chives before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating them in the microwave, as the tomatoes may become mushy; instead, serve them fresh from the fridge for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes With Shrimp contains roughly 326 calories, with 21g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (612% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (317% of the Daily Value), and iron (108% of the Daily Value). At about 326 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the tomatoes shortly before serving to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy.
What can I serve with stuffed cherry tomatoes?
Stuffed cherry tomatoes pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired platter with olives, cheeses, and pita bread.
Can I use larger tomatoes for this recipe?
While cherry tomatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their sweetness and size, you can use larger tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the filling amount and cooking time, as larger tomatoes will require more shrimp mixture.
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).