Introduction
When the weather turns cold and you’re craving something comforting yet healthy, stuffed tomatoes with baked feta cheese can be a delightful solution. Imagine the burst of flavors from the juicy tomatoes, paired perfectly with the tangy and creamy feta, all enhanced by fresh herbs and a hint of garlic. This dish not only looks stunning on your dinner table but also provides a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare even when you’re short on time.
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Stuffed Tomatoes with Baked Feta Cheese
This stuffed tomato recipe combines sweet tomatoes with creamy feta cheese, enhanced by fresh herbs and a hint of garlic. The result is a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for casual dinners or elegant gatherings.
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
✓ 2 large tomatoes
✓ 3 tbsp seasoned breadcrumbs
✓ 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
✓ 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
✓ 1 clove garlic, minced
✓ 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
✓ 1/4 tsp salt
✓ 1/4 tsp pepper
✓ 1/2 tsp oregano (fresh or dried)
Instructions
✓ Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
✓ Wash the tomatoes and cut off the tops. Scoop out the seeds with a small spoon.
✓ In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.
✓ Fill each tomato cavity with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it in gently but firmly.
✓ Arrange the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and sprinkle additional breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
✓ Drizzle olive oil evenly over all the tomatoes to help them crisp up slightly during baking.
✓ Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
✓ Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or main course.
Notes
Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature. Use ripe tomatoes for best flavor. Don’t overfill the tomatoes to avoid mess during baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Appetizer/Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 7
Key Ingredients
- Tomatoes — provide the base for this dish, offering both texture and freshness.
– One quick tip: choose ripe tomatoes with a rich red color for best flavor.
- Feta Cheese (crumbled) — adds tanginess and creaminess to the stuffing.
– A good substitute is goat cheese if you can’t find feta.
- Breadcrumbs — give the stuffing substance and help it hold together.
– Seasoned breadcrumbs are preferable as they add extra flavor.
- Fresh Basil and Parsley (chopped, or dried) — enhance the overall taste with their fresh aroma.
- Garlic — adds depth to the flavors of the dish without overpowering them.
- Olive Oil — provides a rich flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
– Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its better taste and health benefits.
- Salt, Pepper, and Oregano (optional) — seasonings that bring out the best in tomatoes and cheese.
– Dried oregano can be used if fresh isn’t available.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Oven — Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Prepare Tomatoes — Wash the tomatoes, then cut off the tops and scoop out the seeds with a small spoon.
- Make Breadcrumbs Mixture — In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.
Cooking
- Stuff the Tomatoes — Fill each tomato cavity with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it in gently but firmly.
- Arrange on Tray — Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly without overlapping too much.
- Add Breadcrumbs on Top — Sprinkle additional breadcrumbs over the top of the tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Assembly
- Drizzle with Olive Oil — Drizzle olive oil evenly over all the tomatoes to help them crisp up slightly during baking.
- Bake Until Golden — Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Serving
- Serve Warm — Serve these stuffed tomatoes warm as a side dish, appetizer, or main course. They can be enjoyed with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stuffed tomato recipe is perfect for those who appreciate simple yet flavorful meals. The combination of sweet tomatoes and creamy feta cheese, enhanced by fresh herbs, creates a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or main course, making it ideal for casual family dinners or elegant gatherings.
Tips for Making Perfect Stuffed Tomatoes with Baked Feta Cheese
- Preheat the Oven — Ensuring your oven is at the correct temperature before you start cooking will help ensure even baking.
- Use Ripe Tomatoes — The freshness of the tomatoes will significantly impact the overall taste. Choose ones that are slightly soft to the touch but not overly mushy.
- Don’t Overfill the Tomatoes — Filling them too much can cause the stuffing to spill out during baking, resulting in a messier dish.
Time Details
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 180 per serving
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs
- Can I Use Different Cheese? — Yes, you can use goat cheese or a mix of cheeses for varied flavors.
- How Can I Store the Leftovers? — Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the oven before serving.
- Are There Any Substitutions for Dried Herbs? — Fresh herbs can be used as substitutes, but you might need to adjust the quantity depending on their strength.
Conclusion
Stuffed tomatoes with baked feta cheese is a recipe that combines simplicity and sophistication. It’s easy to prepare yet offers a delightful flavor profile that will impress your guests or satisfy your taste buds at home. Whether you’re having a casual dinner party or simply want a healthy, flavorful meal, give this dish a try!
