Stuffed tomato salad

Stuffed Tomato Salad Recipe from Bulgaria with Cheese and Celery

Region / culture: Bulgaria | Servings: 4

Introduction

Stuffed tomato salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy sheep's cheese, and crunchy celery creates a delicious and satisfying salad that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The origins of stuffed tomato salad are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Mediterranean countries where fresh tomatoes are abundant. This dish has been enjoyed for generations as a simple and delicious way to showcase the flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

1 kg of tomatoes
1 medium-sized celery
250 g of brined sheep's cheese
parsley
pepper
1 chopped garlic clove
vinegar
sunflower oil
salt
1 cucumber

How to prepare

Peel and dice the celery. Boil it in salt water, then strain and mix it with the grated cheese, oil, and finely chopped parsley.
Slice off the tops of the tomatoes, core them, and fill them with the mixture. For a more appealing appearance, place the tomatoes on top of cucumber slices.
Trim with small pieces of tomatoes and parsley.

Variations

For a vegan version, you can substitute the sheep's cheese with a plant-based alternative, such as tofu or cashew cheese.
Add cooked quinoa or couscous to the filling for added texture and protein.
Top the stuffed tomatoes with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to choose ripe, firm tomatoes for this recipe to ensure that they hold their shape when stuffed.

- To easily core the tomatoes, use a sharp knife to carefully cut out the center of the tomato, leaving a hollow cavity for the filling.

- For added flavor, you can roast the tomatoes in the oven before stuffing them to enhance their natural sweetness.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or garlic, to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed tomato salad can be served as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood. It pairs well with crusty bread and a glass of white wine.

Cooking Techniques

To make the filling creamier, you can blend the celery and cheese mixture in a food processor until smooth before stuffing the tomatoes.

- For a more rustic presentation, you can chop the tomatoes and mix them into the filling instead of stuffing them whole.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sheep's cheese, you can use feta or goat cheese as a substitute.

- You can use any type of vinegar, such as balsamic or red wine vinegar, in place of white vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the stuffed tomatoes in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Simply fill the tomatoes and assemble the salad just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the stuffed tomatoes on a bed of mixed greens or arugula for a colorful and elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or mint, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Stuffed tomato salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. It also complements Mediterranean dishes, such as falafel or hummus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Stuffed tomato salad is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the tomatoes in a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of stuffed tomato salad contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of stuffed tomato salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of stuffed tomato salad contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of stuffed tomato salad contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Stuffed tomato salad is a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sheep's cheese) and may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Stuffed tomato salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a light and healthy meal or side dish.

Summary

Stuffed tomato salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for showcasing the flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs. With a creamy cheese and celery filling, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for stuffed tomato salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little cottage in the countryside. Maria was known for her culinary prowess, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.

As soon as I entered her kitchen, I was greeted by the most heavenly aroma. Maria was bustling around the kitchen, chopping vegetables and humming a tune. I peeked over her shoulder to see what she was making, and my eyes landed on a platter of vibrant red tomatoes stuffed with a tantalizing mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

"What's that you're making, Maria?" I asked, my mouth watering at the sight of the stuffed tomatoes.

"Oh, this is a family recipe passed down through generations," Maria replied with a twinkle in her eye. "It's a stuffed tomato salad, and it's absolutely delicious. Would you like to help me make it?"

I eagerly nodded, and Maria handed me a tomato to hollow out while she prepared the stuffing. As I carefully removed the seeds and pulp from the tomato, Maria regaled me with stories of how she learned to make this dish from her grandmother, who learned it from her mother, and so on.

"It's a simple recipe, really," Maria explained as she mixed together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. "But the secret lies in the quality of the ingredients and the love that goes into making it."

Together, we assembled the stuffed tomatoes, drizzling them with a bit of balsamic glaze before popping them in the oven to bake. As they cooked, the tantalizing aroma filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the timer finally dinged, Maria pulled the stuffed tomatoes out of the oven, their tops golden brown and the cheese melted and bubbly. We let them cool for a few minutes before digging in, and with the first bite, I was transported to foodie heaven.

The flavors of the fresh tomatoes, the savory stuffing, and the tangy balsamic glaze danced on my taste buds in perfect harmony. I couldn't believe something so simple could be so utterly delicious.

After that day, I knew I had to make this recipe a staple in my own kitchen. I asked Maria for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, along with a few tips and tricks she had picked up over the years.

Since then, I have made the stuffed tomato salad countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my taste. I have shared it with friends and family, and it has become a beloved dish at gatherings and potlucks.

I often think back to that summer day in Maria's kitchen, the day I discovered the magic of stuffed tomato salad. It's amazing how a simple recipe can hold so much history and tradition, connecting us to our roots and to the ones we love.

As I prepare the dish now, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that led me to this recipe. And I know that with each bite, I am not just savoring a delicious meal, but also honoring the legacy of generations past.