Zucchini Stuffed Tomatoes
A delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender tomatoes filled with shredded zucchini and aromatic herbs, perfect for a light, flavorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice a small portion off the bottom of each tomato and scoop out the pulp.
- Saute the minced shallots or green onions, minced garlic, chopped parsley, shredded zucchini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until cooked.
- Stuff the tomato shells with the sauteed mixture and place the tops back on.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, try adding some crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the stuffing for extra flavor. If you don't have shallots, green onions work well as a substitute. Ensure the tomatoes are ripe but firm to prevent them from collapsing during baking. This dish is a great way to use up extra zucchini from your garden, or you can explore more Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These zucchini stuffed tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or side dish. Serve them alongside a fresh salad, such as Watermelon Salad With Watercress, or pair them with grilled chicken for a complete meal. They also complement well with Garlic Basil Dressing drizzled on top for added freshness and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tomatoes too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Stuffed Tomatoes contains roughly 83 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 stuffed tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Hollow out the tomatoes and stuff them just before baking to maintain their texture. This makes for a quick and easy meal when you're short on time.
What can I serve with stuffed tomatoes?
Stuffed tomatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside a light pasta dish or a green salad. They also go well with grilled meats or fish, making them a versatile addition to your meal.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. You can enhance the flavor by adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. Be sure to check the ingredients in any store-bought items, like garlic or onion powder, to ensure they're vegan-friendly.
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).