Stuffed Tomatoes
Stuffed tomatoes offer a flavorful combination of ripe tomatoes filled with a savory mixture of bacon, eggs, olives, and crunchy celery. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or appetizer, combining smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors that appeal to both casual and sophisticated palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut olives into large pieces.
- Cut bacon into 1/4-inch strips and cook slowly until crisp.
- When bacon is half done, add chopped onion and cook until soft.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Combine cooked bacon and onion with diced eggs, chopped celery, and olives.
- Add mayonnaise and mix well.
- Stuff the mixture into ripe tomatoes.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding crumbled feta or switching black olives for green ones. If you prefer, you can use turkey bacon for a lighter option. Make sure to let the bacon cool slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid cooking the eggs. For added flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or light main dish. Serve them on a bed of lettuce for extra crunch and freshness. Pair with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors. These tomatoes also complement grilled meats from American recipes beautifully, such as Pork Chop And Vegetable Skillet.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave to prevent the tomatoes from becoming too mushy. Alternatively, you can serve them cold for a refreshing snack or light lunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Tomatoes contains roughly 449 calories, with 9g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1698mg per serving (74% 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 stuffed tomatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the tomatoes right before serving to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of mayonnaise. This will give the filling a creamy texture while reducing calories.
Are there any variations I can try?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like diced bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor. For a spicier kick, consider adding a bit of diced jalapeño or swapping in a spicy mayo.
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).