If you’re looking for a delightful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, look no further than this Greek Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe. These vibrant tomatoes are not only beautiful but also bursting with savory goodness, making them a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a nutritious meal, these stuffed tomatoes are sure to impress.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy tomato filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your diet while indulging in delicious flavors.
Vibrant Appearance of Greek Stuffed Tomatoes
The sight of Greek stuffed tomatoes is enough to captivate anyone’s attention. Each tomato is hollowed out and generously filled with a hearty mixture that makes it both visually appealing and appetizing.
As they roast in the oven, the tomato skins blister slightly, creating a warm and inviting appearance. The lively colors of fresh tomatoes contrast beautifully with the earthy tones of the filling, making it an attractive dish on any table.
Garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by a light drizzle of olive oil, these stuffed tomatoes evoke the essence of Mediterranean cooking, inviting you to dive into the flavors of the sun-kissed Greek countryside.
The Savory Filling
The filling for Greek stuffed tomatoes is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. A combination of rice and minced meat forms the base, making it both filling and nutritious.
Seasoned with aromatic herbs like oregano and parsley, this mixture captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The addition of garlic and onions brings depth to the flavor profile, creating a savory experience with every bite.
With optional crumbled feta on top, the filling reaches another level, adding a creamy and tangy element that complements the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes.
Preparation Steps
Preparing Greek stuffed tomatoes involves a few simple steps that yield a delightful dish. Start by carefully hollowing out the tomatoes, reserving the pulp for the filling.
In a skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until soft, then add the ground meat and cook until browned. Incorporating the reserved tomato pulp with cooked rice, along with spices, forms the mixture ready to be stuffed.
Fill each tomato and drizzle with olive oil before placing them in a baking dish for roasting. The process is straightforward, making this dish accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Cooking Time and Techniques
The cooking process for Greek stuffed tomatoes is equally rewarding. After preparing the stuffed tomatoes, they are covered and baked, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Initially baking them covered helps retain moisture, ensuring the tomatoes cook evenly and thoroughly. The final uncovered baking time allows the tops to brown slightly, enhancing both flavor and aesthetics.
This method of cooking not only ensures a tender tomato but also creates a beautifully caramelized top layer, offering a delightful contrast to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Greek stuffed tomatoes can be enjoyed as a standalone main dish or as part of a larger Mediterranean feast. They pair well with a side of fresh salad or warm bread, offering a balance of flavors.
Whether served warm right from the oven or allowed to cool to room temperature, these stuffed tomatoes maintain their essence and charm. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma make them a delightful addition to any dinner party or family meal.
Additionally, garnishing with extra parsley or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving elevates their presentation, making them not only a treat for the palate but also for the eyes.
A Nutritional Perspective
These stuffed tomatoes are not just a feast for the senses; they also offer nutritional benefits. Packed with vegetables, protein from the meat, and healthy carbohydrates from the rice, they provide a balanced meal.
Within each tomato lies a blend of essential nutrients, making this dish suitable for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor. With moderate calories and a good balance of fats, proteins, and carbs, it’s a meal that can fit into a variety of dietary preferences.
Enjoying Greek stuffed tomatoes means indulging in a dish that is as nourishing as it is satisfying, making it a worthwhile addition to any meal plan.
Deliciously Stuffed Tomatoes with Greek-Inspired Filling
This Greek Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe features plump tomatoes hollowed out and filled with a fragrant mixture of rice, minced meat, and Mediterranean spices. The result is a dish that is both hearty and refreshing, with each tomato offering a unique taste that is both satisfying and healthful.
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, reserving the pulp. Set the hollowed tomatoes aside.
- Make the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, reserved tomato pulp, oregano, parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Stuff the Tomatoes: Carefully fill each hollowed tomato with the meat and rice mixture. If desired, sprinkle feta cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and drizzle with a little olive oil. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes are tender.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. These stuffed tomatoes can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
