Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes

Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Greece

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes are a delicious and traditional Greek dish that is perfect for a light and flavorful meal. These tomatoes are filled with a savory mixture of rice, feta cheese, onions, and parsley, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

History

This recipe has been a staple in Greek cuisine for generations, with each family putting their own unique twist on the classic dish. Rice-stuffed tomatoes are often served as a side dish or as a main course, and are a popular choice for summer meals when tomatoes are in season.

Ingredients

8 large tomatoes
3 cups cooked rice
0.5 cup chopped red onion
0.75 cup crumbled feta cheese
0.5 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp salt
0.33 cup vegetable oil

How to prepare

Remove the tops of the tomatoes and scoop out the insides. Drain them on paper towels.
In a large bowl, combine the rice, onion, cheese, parsley, and salt.
Place equal amounts of the rice mixture into the tomatoes, drizzle them with oil, and place them in a baking pan.
Bake them at 425°F (218°C) for 20 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked ground meat such as lamb or beef to the filling for a heartier dish.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.
Top the tomatoes with a dollop of tzatziki sauce before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the tomatoes well after scooping out the insides to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

- You can customize the filling by adding other ingredients such as pine nuts, olives, or diced bell peppers.

- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or grated cheese on top of the tomatoes before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a main course with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the tomatoes at a high temperature helps to soften them while also allowing the flavors of the filling to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use goat cheese or ricotta cheese instead of feta cheese.

- Substitute green onions or shallots for the red onion.

- Use mint or dill instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Fill the tomatoes and bake them just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the tomatoes with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes with a crisp white wine such as Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (feta cheese) and gluten (from the rice), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes are a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes are a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a summer meal. With a savory filling of rice, feta cheese, and herbs, these tomatoes are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Maria was a wonderful cook, and I always loved trying out new recipes with her.

On this particular day, Maria decided to show me how to make her famous Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes. She told me that this recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, and she was excited to share it with me.

We started by gathering all the ingredients we would need. The tomatoes were plump and ripe, the rice was fragrant and fluffy, and the herbs and spices were fresh and vibrant. Maria explained that the key to making the perfect Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes was to use the best quality ingredients possible.

As we began to cook, Maria shared stories of her grandmother and how she used to make this dish for special occasions. She talked about how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully preparing each tomato with love and care.

I listened intently, soaking up every detail of the recipe as Maria guided me through each step. From hollowing out the tomatoes to sautéing the onions and garlic, every part of the process was a labor of love.

As the aroma of the herbs and spices filled the air, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. The flavors reminded me of my own grandmother's cooking, and I felt a deep connection to the recipe and its history.

After the tomatoes had been stuffed and baked to perfection, Maria and I sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The flavors were exquisite – the tangy tomatoes paired perfectly with the savory rice and aromatic herbs.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experience. Not only had I learned how to make a delicious new dish, but I had also gained a deeper appreciation for the art of cooking and the importance of passing down recipes through generations.

Since that day with Maria, I have made Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes countless times for my family and friends. Each time I prepare this dish, I feel a sense of connection to my past and to the traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today.

I am grateful for the memories and the stories that have been shared with me over the years, and I treasure each recipe that has been passed down through generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones and to honor the traditions that have been a part of my family for as long as I can remember.

And so, as I prepare to make another batch of Greek Rice-stuffed Tomatoes, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the experiences that have brought me to this moment. Cooking is more than just a way to nourish our bodies – it is a way to nourish our souls and to keep our traditions alive for generations to come.