Tomatoes stuffed with Vegetables

Tomatoes Stuffed with Vegetables Recipe - A Hearty and Flavorful Meal Option from Romania

Region / culture: Romania | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomatoes stuffed with vegetables is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish. The combination of fresh tomatoes and a medley of boiled vegetables creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe has been enjoyed for generations as a way to use up leftover vegetables and create a colorful and tasty dish. Stuffed tomatoes are a popular dish in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where fresh produce is abundant and flavorful.

Ingredients

3 boiled potatoes
2 carrots
1 parsnip
1 celery root
2 – 3 tbsp peas (optional)
1 chopped onion
mayonnaise
tomatoes
salt
lettuce

How to prepare

Boil all the vegetables, except the onion, tomatoes, and lettuce.
Allow the vegetables to cool, then cube them and mix with the chopped onion and salt.
Combine the vegetables with mayo, then stuff the tomatoes (after removing the insides) with the mixture.
Refrigerate the stuffed tomatoes.
When serving, place the stuffed tomatoes on a bed of chopped lettuce.

Variations

Add cooked quinoa or rice to the vegetable mixture for added texture and protein.
Top the stuffed tomatoes with grated cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to boil the vegetables until they are tender but still firm, as overcooking can make them mushy.

- Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the insides of the tomatoes, being careful not to puncture the skin.

- Refrigerate the stuffed tomatoes for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

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

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the vegetables until they are tender but still firm is key to the success of this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use any combination of vegetables that you have on hand for this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetable mixture and stuff the tomatoes ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the stuffed tomatoes with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of tomatoes stuffed with vegetables contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

Each serving of tomatoes stuffed with vegetables contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of tomatoes stuffed with vegetables contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe may contain eggs if using mayonnaise, so be cautious if you have an egg allergy.

Summary

Tomatoes stuffed with vegetables is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tomatoes stuffed with vegetables is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. Packed with vitamins and minerals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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, just like today, when I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and chatting about our favorite recipes.

As we talked, Margaret suddenly became animated, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Oh, I almost forgot! I have to show you this amazing recipe I learned from my grandmother," she exclaimed, jumping up from her seat and rummaging through her old recipe box.

I watched with curiosity as she pulled out a stained and tattered card, its edges frayed with age. On it were handwritten instructions for making tomatoes stuffed with vegetables. The recipe called for ripe tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, and a mixture of herbs and spices.

Margaret explained that this recipe had been in her family for generations, passed down from mother to daughter. She had learned it from her grandmother, who had learned it from her own mother, and so on. It was a cherished family tradition, and Margaret was eager to share it with me.

I was fascinated by the history and tradition behind the recipe, and I couldn't wait to try it for myself. Margaret graciously offered to guide me through the steps, patiently showing me how to hollow out the tomatoes, chop the vegetables, and season the filling. Together, we worked side by side, our hands moving in sync as we prepared the dish.

As the tomatoes baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma, Margaret regaled me with stories of her grandmother and the memories they had shared in the kitchen. She spoke of long summer days spent picking fresh vegetables from the garden, of laughter and love shared over shared meals, and of the joy of passing down family recipes from one generation to the next.

I listened intently, my heart swelling with emotion. I thought of my own grandmother, who had also been a talented cook and had taught me so much about the art of cooking. She had passed down her own recipes to me, just as Margaret's grandmother had done for her.

When the tomatoes were finally ready, we sat down at the table to enjoy our creation. The vibrant colors of the vegetables peeking out from the tomatoes' red skins were a sight to behold. The flavors were even more delightful, a harmonious blend of sweetness, tanginess, and earthiness.

As we savored each bite, I felt a deep sense of connection to my friend and her family. Through this simple dish, I had gained a glimpse into their rich history and traditions. I understood now why Margaret had been so eager to share it with me – it was a way of passing on a piece of her heritage, a piece of her heart.

From that day on, tomatoes stuffed with vegetables became a regular staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family and friends, sharing the recipe and the stories behind it with anyone who would listen. Each time I prepared it, I felt a sense of pride and gratitude for the bond that food can create between people.

As I sit here now, many years later, reflecting on that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen, I am filled with a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The recipe for tomatoes stuffed with vegetables has become more than just a dish – it is a symbol of friendship, tradition, and love. And for that, I am forever grateful.