Ripe tomatoes stuffed with cheese

The perfect appetizer for flavor and texture lovers, these roasted stuffed tomatoes with cheese are not just a delicacy, but also an excellent way to bring a touch of freshness and color to any occasion's table. Whether it's a family dinner, a party with friends, or simply a treat for yourself, this appetizer is sure to please everyone.

Recipe History

Vegetable stuffing is an ancient culinary tradition, appreciated in many cultures, with deep roots in gastronomic history. Tomatoes, in particular, are a versatile ingredient that fits perfectly into various dishes. These roasted stuffed tomatoes with cheese pay homage to this tradition, combining the sweet and tangy taste of tomatoes with the richness of cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 7 tomatoes (preferably medium, ripe, but firm)
- 300 g hard cottage cheese (can be replaced with feta cheese for a different taste)
- 70 g grated cheese (or mozzarella for a creamier effect)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (or dill, for a different flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 1-2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped (for a more intense flavor)

Detailed Instructions

1. Preparing the tomatoes: Start by washing the tomatoes under a stream of cold water. Then, carefully cut off their "caps", being careful not to destroy them. These caps will be reused, so set them aside.

2. Hollowing the tomatoes: Using a teaspoon or a small knife, gently hollow out the insides of the tomatoes. Be careful not to break the walls, as they need to maintain their shape. After hollowing them out, place the tomatoes upside down on a paper towel to drain excess water for 10-15 minutes. This step is essential to prevent your appetizer from becoming too watery.

3. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, grate the cottage cheese. Add the finely chopped parsley (or dill, if you prefer) and the hollowed-out tomato insides, chopping them finely. If you want to add extra flavor, now is the time to incorporate the chopped garlic. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Taste the filling and add salt, as desired.

4. Filling the tomatoes: Using a teaspoon or a piping bag, fill each tomato with the cheese mixture. Make sure the filling is compact, but do not force it to avoid breaking the tomatoes.

5. Preparing for the oven: Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish. Sprinkle grated cheese on top of each tomato, giving them a savory note and a golden crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish with the stuffed tomatoes in the oven and let them bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and nicely browned. After this time, place the caps back on the tomatoes and let them bake for another 10 minutes. This step will help retain moisture and flavors.

7. Serving: Once the tomatoes are cooked, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These delicious appetizers can be served warm, but they are just as good at room temperature. You can garnish them with a little fresh parsley on top for a more appetizing look.

Tips and Variations

- Cheese variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, to add a different taste and texture.
- Additions: Depending on your preferences, you can add chopped black olives or even red bell pepper for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving: These stuffed tomatoes are excellent as an appetizer, but they can also be a perfect accompaniment to a steak or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, while cottage cheese provides a significant amount of protein. Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, making them a suitable appetizer for any diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I replace cottage cheese? Yes, you can use feta or mozzarella cheese, depending on your preferences.
- How long can I keep the stuffed tomatoes? They can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it's best to consume them fresh.
- Can I use cherry tomatoes? Yes, stuffed cherry tomatoes are a cute alternative and can be served as an appetizer at parties.

This stuffed roasted tomato appetizer is an excellent choice to impress guests or to treat yourself. With every bite, you will experience an explosion of flavors and textures, making it an unforgettable dish. Enjoy your meal!