Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes
A vibrant, savory appetizer featuring tender tomatoes filled with a creamy tuna and bean mixture, ideal for casual gatherings or light lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, flake the tuna and combine with drained kidney beans, corn, shredded Cheddar cheese, salad dressing, and chopped green onion.
- Cover and chill the mixture for an hour.
- Core each tomato and carefully remove part of the center to create a shallow bowl.
- Drain the tomatoes upside down on a paper towel.
- Cut each tomato into 5 to 6 wedges almost to the bottom, leaving the wedges attached at the bottom.
- Gently open each tomato and fill with the tuna mixture.
- Serve with crackers, chips, pickles, or lettuce wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced celery or bell peppers. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for the salad dressing. You can also use canned salmon or chicken instead of tuna for a different protein. To prevent soggy tomatoes, make sure to drain them thoroughly before stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
These Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or light lunch. Serve them alongside crackers or chips for a crunchy contrast, or pair with a fresh green salad. They also complement seafood recipes beautifully, adding a refreshing taste to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tuna mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have stuffed tomatoes left over, enjoy them cold as a salad or reheat them in the microwave for a quick warm meal, though the tomatoes may become softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes contains roughly 478 calories, with 32g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. 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 tuna mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tuna mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just stuff the tomatoes right before serving to keep them fresh.
What type of tomatoes work best for this recipe?
Medium-sized tomatoes like beefsteak or vine-ripened are ideal for stuffing, as they have a sturdy structure. Avoid overly ripe tomatoes that might fall apart during the stuffing process.
Can I use different beans or vegetables in the filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different beans like black beans or even add diced cucumbers or jalapeños for an extra crunch. Just ensure that the flavors complement the tuna.
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).