Stuffed Creole Tomatoes
Creamy and flavorful stuffed Creole tomatoes feature seasoned pulp and bread crumbs, perfect as a savory appetizer or side dish for any Southern-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove a 1/2-inch slice from the top of each tomato and chop it.
- Scoop out most of the pulp from each tomato and chop it.
- Put a little salt, pepper, and sugar inside each tomato.
- Turn the tomatoes upside down on a paper towel to drain.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked sausage or crab meat to the bread crumbs. If you're short on time, store-bought garlic butter can be a great substitute. You can also use any variety of tomatoes if Creole tomatoes are unavailable, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender. For a vegetarian twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed tomatoes warm as a delightful appetizer or side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. They pair beautifully with Rice With Dates And Almonds for a complete meal. For a refreshing finish, consider offering Lime Ice Cream Salad for dessert, balancing the savory flavors with a sweet touch.
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) until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. This will help retain their flavor and texture, ensuring a delicious second serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Creole Tomatoes contains roughly 156 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 768mg per serving (33% 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 tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes a day in advance. Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're going in cold.
How can I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too mushy?
To prevent mushiness, avoid overcooking the tomatoes and choose firm ones. Additionally, draining the tomatoes upside down on a paper towel helps remove excess moisture before stuffing.
What can I serve with stuffed tomatoes?
Stuffed tomatoes are versatile and can be served with various sides. Consider pairing them with a light green salad or crusty bread. They also complement grilled meats wonderfully, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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).