Teresa's Recipes
Gourmet Stuffed Tomatoes
Experience the delight of Gourmet Stuffed Tomatoes, where juicy, ripe tomatoes cradle a savory filling of seasoned rice, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also adds a splash of color to your table, making it perfect for any gathering or a cozy family meal. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, stuffed tomatoes are a beloved classic that showcase the beauty of fresh ingredients, celebrating the bounty of summer gardens.
Ingredients
- 4 large, ripe Tomatoes
- 1 cup Cooked rice
- 1 medium, diced Bell pepper
- 1 medium, finely chopped Onion
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh basil
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1/2 cup, for topping Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Appetizer/Side Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully cut off the tops of the tomatoes and scoop out the seeds and pulp using a spoon. Reserve the pulp for later use if desired.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Stuff each hollowed tomato generously with the rice mixture, pressing down lightly to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed tomatoes upright in a baking dish. If desired, you can mix some of the reserved tomato pulp into the filling for added moisture and flavor.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the tops of each stuffed tomato.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious stuffed tomatoes warm as an appetizer or a delightful side dish.
Tips
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the rice mixture.
- Feel free to substitute quinoa or couscous for the rice for a different texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to customize the taste.