Tuna Stuffed Tomato
A quick, flavorful tuna stuffed tomato combines creamy mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and tender macaroni, making a satisfying and light meal perfect for lunch or a snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tuna, cooked macaroni, diced celery, onion, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Stuff the mixture into a halved tomato.
- Garnish with pimento and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt as a substitute for mayonnaise. You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or use canned chicken instead of tuna. For added flavor, season with salt, pepper, or a dash of lemon juice. This dish can be made ahead of time and is a great way to use up leftover cooked macaroni.
Serving Suggestions
Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes make a delightful light lunch or appetizer. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or pairs beautifully with Spinach Stuffed Flounder for a more substantial meal. Consider adding some crusty bread or crackers to round out the meal, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently microwave the stuffed tomatoes for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, ensuring they are heated through but not overcooked. The filling can also be stored separately and stuffed just before serving for freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Stuffed Tomato contains roughly 369 calories, with 32g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 973mg per serving (42% 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tuna mixture a few hours in advance and stuff the tomatoes just before serving to maintain their freshness. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the tomatoes from becoming soggy.
What can I use instead of tuna?
You can substitute canned chicken, chickpeas for a vegetarian option, or even use cooked shrimp for a seafood twist. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to complement the different proteins.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, opt for low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute. Additionally, increase the vegetable content by adding more diced celery or incorporating shredded carrots for extra fiber and nutrients.
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).