Stuffed-Tomato Clowns
Colorful stuffed tomato clowns are a delightful appetizer with a creamy egg filling, perfect for entertaining or light summer lunches, offering fresh flavors and whimsical presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the tomatoes, if desired.
- With a sharp knife at a slant, cut out a cone from the end opposite the stem of each tomato; reserve.
- Scoop out half of the tomato's center.
- Invert the tomatoes and chill.
- In a bowl, combine chopped eggs, chopped celery, sliced stuffed green olives, and minced green onions.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- Chill the mixture.
- Just before serving, add mayonnaise to the mixture and mix well.
- Sprinkle the inside of each tomato with salt, then heap the salad mixture into each tomato.
- Perch the reserved cone on top of each filled tomato, pointy side up.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of Greek yogurt along with the mayonnaise. If you want to enhance the flavor, try incorporating diced pickles or capers into the mixture. You can also substitute cucumbers for celery if you prefer a crunchier texture. Make sure to select ripe yet firm tomatoes to prevent them from collapsing when filled.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed-tomato clowns make a fun and colorful appetizer, ideal for parties or picnics. Serve them alongside a light salad or some Yummy Green Beans for a vibrant meal. They can also be paired with crusty bread or served as a side dish at a summer barbecue, making them a versatile addition to your menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, carefully remove the filling and warm the tomatoes in a microwave for about 30 seconds. Then, refill with the chilled salad mixture just before serving to retain freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed-Tomato Clowns contains roughly 93 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 575mg per serving (25% 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 prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the mayonnaise just before serving to maintain the best texture. This makes it a great option for meal prep when hosting gatherings.
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
Medium-sized, firm tomatoes like Roma or vine-ripened are ideal as they hold their shape well and provide a good balance of flavor. Avoid overly soft tomatoes to prevent them from collapsing when filled.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the hard-cooked eggs or use a plant-based egg substitute. You can also add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to enhance the filling without losing flavor.
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).