Tomatoes Stuffed With Chicken Or Tuna
Delightful stuffed tomatoes filled with a savory mixture of chicken or tuna, cereal, and seasonings, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer suitable for various tastes.
Ingredients
- 6 medium-size fresh tomatoes ⓘ
- 3/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1 cup cooked or canned chopped chicken or tuna ⓘ
- 1/2 cup bite-size shredded cereal (Wheat, Rice, or Corn) ⓘ
- 1 egg, slightly beaten ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/4 cup crushed cereal flakes (Wheat, Rice, or Corn) ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons melted butter or margarine ⓘ
Instructions
- Wash the tomatoes.
- Remove a thin slice from the stem end of each tomato and scoop out the pulp.
- Save the pulp for later use.
- Sprinkle the inside of the tomatoes with 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Invert the tomatoes to drain for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the butter or margarine in the filling. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the chicken or tuna with cooked quinoa or a mix of sautéed vegetables. Ensure to adjust the seasoning accordingly. Using fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the flavor profile. Make sure to drain the tomatoes well to avoid a watery filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed tomatoes warm as a delightful main dish or as a side alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. They pair excellently with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing, reminiscent of chicken recipes like Chicken Nicoise. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
After stuffing, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed tomatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tomatoes mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoes Stuffed With Chicken Or Tuna contains roughly 1122 calories, with 22g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (113% of the Daily Value), potassium (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1581mg per serving (69% 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 use different types of meat for the stuffing?
Absolutely! While chicken and tuna are popular choices, you can also use shredded turkey or even crab meat for a unique twist. Just ensure any meat you use is cooked thoroughly before mixing it into the filling.
What can I do with the leftover tomato pulp?
The leftover tomato pulp can be added to soups or sauces for extra flavor. You can also mix it into pasta dishes or use it as a base for a homemade salsa, enhancing the overall taste of your meal.
Can I prepare the stuffed tomatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tomatoes and the filling a day ahead. Stuff the tomatoes just before baking to prevent them from becoming soggy. Store the unbaked stuffed tomatoes covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
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).