Stuffed Tomatoes I

Stuffed Tomatoes I Recipe - Vegetarian Dish with Spinach, Rice, and Olive Oil

| Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Stuffed tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. This recipe combines the freshness of tomatoes with the savory flavors of spinach and rice, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.

History

Stuffed tomatoes have been a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. The combination of tomatoes, rice, and various fillings has been enjoyed by many cultures around the world. This recipe puts a modern twist on the classic dish, making it a versatile and delicious option for any meal.

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 or vegetable stock)
0.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
4 medium tomatoes
2 tbsp of olive oil

How to prepare

Purée the spinach in a food processor or blender.
Add the puréed spinach to the rice and stir. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then stir again and set it aside.
Core the tomatoes and slice off the tops, keeping them aside. Remove the pulp from the tomatoes and discard it.
Spoon the rice mixture into the hollowed tomatoes and replace the tops.
Place the tomatoes in a shallow baking dish and drizzle them with olive oil.
Bake the tomatoes at 400°F (204°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked ground meat such as beef or turkey to the filling for added protein.
Mix in some chopped herbs such as parsley or basil for extra flavor.
Top the stuffed tomatoes with grated cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.

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.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices.

- Serve the stuffed tomatoes with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffed tomatoes with a side of quinoa or couscous for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the stuffed tomatoes helps to soften the tomatoes and meld the flavors of the filling together. Make sure to keep an eye on them in the oven to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute brown rice or quinoa for the white rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stuffed tomatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This makes them a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the stuffed tomatoes on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful and elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flair.

Pairing Recommendations

Stuffed tomatoes pair well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. They also go well with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover stuffed 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 stuffed tomatoes contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of stuffed tomatoes contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of stuffed tomatoes contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of stuffed tomatoes contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Stuffed tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Stuffed tomatoes are a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. They make a great addition to any meal and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Stuffed tomatoes are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. This recipe combines the flavors of tomatoes, spinach, and rice for a satisfying and nutritious meal that is sure to please. Try making these stuffed tomatoes for your next dinner party or family meal for a tasty and healthy option.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Marie at her home in the countryside. We spent the morning picking fresh tomatoes from her garden, the ripe red fruits glistening in the sunlight. As we sat down for lunch, Marie excitedly told me about a new recipe she had learned for stuffed tomatoes.

Intrigued, I watched as she carefully sliced off the tops of the tomatoes and hollowed out the insides, creating perfect little cups ready to be filled with a delicious mixture. She then mixed breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and garlic together, creating a savory stuffing that smelled heavenly as it baked in the oven.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the stuffed tomato, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The juicy tomato paired perfectly with the crispy breadcrumbs and melted cheese, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this recipe for myself.

Marie graciously shared her recipe with me, and I eagerly wrote it down in my trusty recipe book. Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time tweaking the ingredients and making it my own. It has become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I am known for among family and friends.

I still remember the first time I made stuffed tomatoes for my husband. His eyes lit up with delight as he took his first bite, and he declared it to be the best thing he had ever tasted. From that moment on, it became a dish that he requested often, especially during the summer months when tomatoes were at their peak.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect my recipe for stuffed tomatoes, adding new ingredients and experimenting with different flavors. I learned to make them with a variety of cheeses, from creamy mozzarella to tangy feta. I also discovered that adding fresh herbs like basil and parsley brought a burst of freshness to the dish.

One of my favorite memories involving this recipe was when my grandchildren came to visit me for the summer. I decided to teach them how to make stuffed tomatoes, passing down the recipe to the next generation. It was a joy to watch them carefully scoop out the insides of the tomatoes and stuff them with the delicious filling, their faces lit up with excitement as they created something delicious with their own hands.

Now, whenever my grandchildren come to visit, they always ask to make stuffed tomatoes with me. It has become a tradition, a special bonding experience that we all look forward to. I love passing down this recipe to them, knowing that it will be a part of our family for generations to come.

As I sit here reminiscing about the journey I have taken with this recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for the friends and family who have shared it with me along the way. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories that last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly thankful.