Tomatoes stuffed with Shrimp
Tomatoes Stuffed with Shrimp Recipe - Classic Mediterranean Cuisine
Introduction
Tomatoes stuffed with shrimp is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the savory flavor of shrimp. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party.
History
The origins of tomatoes stuffed with shrimp are unclear, but it is likely that this dish has been enjoyed for many years in various cultures around the world. The combination of tomatoes and shrimp is a classic pairing that is popular in many cuisines.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and scoop out the centers.
- Combine the tomato pulp, parsley, salt, and onion in a mixing bowl and mix well.
- In a small skillet, melt the butter and fry the shrimp for a few minutes.
- Add the tomato mixture to the skillet, then fill the tomatoes with this mixture.
- Melt a small amount of butter and stir in the bread crumbs.
- Dot the tops of the tomatoes with the breadcrumbs and bake for 20 minutes.
Variations
- You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as diced bell peppers, corn, or cheese.
- Instead of shrimp, you can use crab meat or cooked chicken as a filling for the tomatoes.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to choose ripe, firm tomatoes for this recipe to ensure that they hold their shape when baked.
- You can use fresh or canned shrimp for this recipe, depending on your preference and availability.
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Tomatoes stuffed with shrimp can be served as a main dish with a side of rice or salad. It can also be served as an appetizer or a side dish for a larger meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking is the primary cooking technique used for this recipe, as it helps to soften the tomatoes and meld the flavors of the filling together.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have shrimp, you can use crab meat, cooked chicken, or tofu as a substitute. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you have a gluten intolerance.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the filling for the tomatoes stuffed with shrimp ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake the dish.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the tomatoes stuffed with shrimp on a bed of fresh greens or garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Tomatoes stuffed with shrimp pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes well with a light salad or steamed vegetables.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of tomatoes stuffed with shrimp 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 tomatoes stuffed with shrimp contains approximately 180 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of tomatoes stuffed with shrimp contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of tomatoes stuffed with shrimp contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of tomatoes stuffed with shrimp contains approximately 10 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. Shrimp is rich in protein, vitamin B12, and selenium.
Alergens
This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and gluten (breadcrumbs).
Summary
Tomatoes stuffed with shrimp is a nutritious dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Summary
Tomatoes stuffed with shrimp is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a sunny afternoon in the late 1960s, and I was visiting my dear friend Anna in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Anna was an amazing cook, and I always looked forward to our culinary adventures together. On this particular day, she had a surprise for me – a recipe for tomatoes stuffed with shrimp.
Anna had learned this recipe from her mother, who in turn had learned it from an old friend who had spent many years living in Italy. The combination of ripe tomatoes and succulent shrimp, all baked to perfection, was a dish that I had never tried before. I was intrigued and excited to give it a go.
As Anna guided me through the steps of preparing the dish, I listened intently, taking mental notes and asking questions along the way. The aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air as we worked together in her cozy kitchen, chopping, sautéing, and mixing ingredients with care and precision.
The key, Anna explained, was to select the freshest tomatoes and shrimp available. She showed me how to carefully hollow out the tomatoes, creating a perfect vessel for the seasoned shrimp filling. We mixed the shrimp with breadcrumbs, herbs, and a hint of lemon zest, creating a flavorful mixture that would be spooned into each tomato.
As we placed the stuffed tomatoes in the oven to bake, the anticipation grew. The scent of the dish wafted through the kitchen, making our mouths water in anticipation. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the timer dinged, and we carefully removed the tomatoes from the oven.
The sight that greeted us was truly spectacular. The tomatoes were perfectly cooked, with the shrimp filling bubbling and golden on top. I could hardly wait to taste the fruits of our labor. Anna and I sat down at her rustic dining table, our forks poised and ready.
The first bite was pure heaven. The juicy tomato paired perfectly with the tender shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The herbs and lemon added a subtle brightness to the dish, making it truly unforgettable. Anna and I savored each bite, enjoying the dish in silence as we marveled at our culinary creation.
From that day on, tomatoes stuffed with shrimp became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I shared the recipe with friends and family, delighting in their reactions as they experienced the dish for the first time. Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time with a sense of joy and nostalgia for that special day with Anna.
As I sit here now, in my own kitchen, preparing tomatoes stuffed with shrimp for a family gathering, I can't help but smile as I remember that sunny afternoon so many years ago. The recipe has become a part of my culinary legacy, passed down through generations and cherished by all who taste it.
So here's to Anna, and her mother, and the friend from Italy who shared this amazing recipe with us. May their memory live on in every bite of tomatoes stuffed with shrimp, bringing joy and delight to all who taste it. And may the tradition continue for years to come, as we gather around the table, sharing stories and savoring the simple pleasures of good food and good company.