Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato

Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato Recipe - Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, spinach, and rice. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is easy to prepare.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional stuffed tomato recipes that have been enjoyed for centuries. The combination of rice, spinach, and tomatoes creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of fresh spinach, steamed or one 10 oz (283 g) package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
2 cups of cooked medium-grain rice (cooked in chicken broth)
0.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
4 medium tomatoes
2 tbsp of olive oil

How to prepare

Puree spinach in a food processor or blender. Add it to the rice and stir. Add salt and pepper to the mixture; stir and set it aside.
Core the tomatoes. Slice off the tops of the tomatoes and keep them aside. Scoop out the pulp of the tomatoes and discard it.
Spoon the rice mixture into the tomatoes and put the tops back on. Place the tomatoes in a shallow baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil. Bake them at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked ground meat or tofu to the filling for extra protein.
Top the tomatoes with cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.
Mix in cooked quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the spinach well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

- You can customize the filling by adding other vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato as a main dish with a side salad or crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the tomatoes helps to soften them and infuse the flavors of the filling. Make sure to cover the dish with foil to prevent the tomatoes from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use frozen spinach instead of fresh, or swap out the rice for quinoa or couscous. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables and herbs.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This dish is best served fresh out of the oven.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A and C from the tomatoes and spinach. It also provides a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (if using chicken broth) and gluten from the rice. It may also contain traces of nuts if added as a variation.

Summary

Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day, and I had just arrived at my friend Maria's house for a visit. As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of garlic and tomatoes simmering on the stove.

Maria was in the kitchen, wearing her apron and humming a tune as she chopped fresh spinach and cooked rice on the stove. I couldn't help but be drawn to the delicious smells coming from her kitchen.

"Hey there, dearie!" Maria greeted me with a warm smile. "I'm making my favorite recipe today - Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomatoes. Would you like to help me?"

I eagerly agreed, excited to learn a new recipe from my dear friend. As Maria guided me through the steps of the recipe, I listened carefully and took mental notes of each ingredient and technique she used.

Maria explained that she had learned this recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The combination of fresh tomatoes, savory rice, and nutritious spinach was a family favorite, and Maria was proud to continue making it for her own family.

As we worked together in the kitchen, Maria shared stories of her grandmother and how she had learned to cook from her at a young age. She spoke fondly of the memories they had shared in the kitchen, bonding over recipes and creating delicious meals together.

As we finished preparing the Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomatoes, Maria placed them in the oven to bake. The smell of the dish wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the timer beeped, we carefully removed the tomatoes from the oven and placed them on a serving platter. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to try a bite.

As Maria and I sat down at the table to enjoy our meal, I marveled at how such simple ingredients could come together to create such a delicious dish. The tender tomatoes, flavorful rice, and nutritious spinach blended perfectly, creating a symphony of flavors in each bite.

As I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but feel grateful to Maria for sharing this recipe with me. It was a dish that spoke of family, tradition, and love - qualities that I cherished deeply.

After our meal, Maria gifted me with a handwritten copy of the recipe, complete with detailed instructions and tips for success. I treasured the recipe, knowing that it would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomatoes countless times, each time evoking memories of that special day in Maria's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with my own grandchildren, passing down the tradition of delicious home-cooked meals from one generation to the next.

As I sit in my own kitchen today, preparing this beloved recipe once again, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the memories and stories that are woven into each bite. The recipe may have originated from Maria's grandmother, but it has become a part of my own family's culinary history, cherished and loved by all who taste it.

And so, as I take a bite of the warm, savory Rice and Spinach-filled Baked Tomato in front of me, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past, to create memories, and to bring joy to those we love. It is a simple yet profound reminder of the beauty and magic of cooking - a gift that I will always treasure.