Tomato Surprise("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.")
A delightful baked tomato dish featuring eggs, cheese, and white sauce, perfect for brunch or light lunch, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and chill rounded tomatoes of even size.
- Cut the tomatoes in halves, scoop out their centers, and drop a raw egg into each hollow.
- Dust the stuffed tomatoes with salt and pepper.
- Cover each with a spoonful of white sauce and then sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Bake at 325°F until the egg is set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or parsley to the egg mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made white sauce instead of making it from scratch. If you prefer a different texture, try adding sautéed vegetables or cooked bacon bits inside the tomatoes for added taste. This dish is also great when served with a side of Lemon Poppy Seed Scones for brunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Tomato Surprises as a delightful brunch dish alongside a fresh green salad or some crispy toast. They also pair beautifully with Willie'S Raleigh House Blueberry Muffins for a well-rounded meal. You can garnish with fresh herbs or additional cheese for an elegant presentation. A light white wine can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Warm them in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this may result in a rubbery texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Surprise("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.") contains roughly 235 calories, with 4g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 547mg per serving (24% 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 these tomatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tomatoes by scooping out the centers and adding the eggs a few hours before baking. Just cover them and store in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. However, it's best to add the white sauce and cheese just before baking to maintain the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of grated cheese?
If you're looking for a cheese substitute, consider using nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or crumbled feta for a tangy flavor. You can also try using a vegan cheese alternative that melts well. This way, you can accommodate various dietary preferences while still enjoying the dish.
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
While the recipe suggests using rounded tomatoes, feel free to experiment with other varieties like heirloom or Roma tomatoes. Keep in mind that different tomatoes may have varying moisture content, which can affect the cooking time. Adjust accordingly to ensure the eggs are properly set without making the dish watery.
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).