Stuffed tomatoes appetizer

Stuffed Tomatoes with Cheese Appetizer: A Festive Delicacy

In search of appetizers that impress guests and bring a touch of freshness to your table, stuffed tomatoes with cheese are an excellent choice. This dish is not only delicious but also colorful and textured, turning every festive meal into a true celebration of flavors. It is said that appetizers are a prelude to the meal, and these will surely capture everyone's attention!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 8 stuffed tomatoes

Necessary Ingredients:

- 150 g grated cheese (preferably cottage cheese or feta for a richer taste)
- 50 g butter (at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 bunch of green onions (about 4-5 stalks)
- 1 small red onion (for color contrast and a slightly sweet taste)
- Salt to taste (don’t overdo it, the cheese may already be salty)
- Sesame seeds (for added crunch and flavor)
- For decoration:
- Olives (black or green, depending on preference)
- A few cherry tomatoes (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 chopped red bell pepper (for a splash of color)
- 1 cucumber (sliced into thin strips)

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the filling: In a large enough bowl, add the grated cheese and butter. Use a fork or spatula to mix them well. This step is essential for achieving a creamy and homogeneous texture.

2. Adding the onions: Finely chop the red onion and green onions. Add them to the bowl with cheese and butter and mix well. The red onion will provide a hint of sweetness, while the green onion will add freshness and a distinct flavor.

3. Adjusting the salt: Taste the filling and add salt to your preference. It is important to adjust the salt according to the taste of the cheese used.

4. Preparing the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes and carefully cut off the top (the cap). Use a teaspoon to gently scoop out the pulp, being careful not to damage the skin. This step is important for creating a perfect "container" for the filling.

5. Filling the tomatoes: Use a spoon to fill each tomato with the cheese mixture. Make sure the filling is well packed so it doesn’t leak out.

6. Decorating: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped red bell pepper on top of each stuffed tomato. These will not only add an attractive look but also a burst of flavors.

7. Finalizing the dish: Place a cherry tomato on each stuffed tomato and add a thin strip of cucumber for a pleasant contrast of textures. Arrange the stuffed tomatoes on a platter and decorate with olives, which will provide an elegant look and a salty taste.

8. Serving: This appetizer is delicious both cold and at room temperature. You can serve it alongside a refreshing drink, such as a fruit cocktail or a dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the cheese and vegetables.

Practical Tip: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, to achieve varied flavors. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or basil for an extra touch of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, while cheese provides protein and calcium. This appetizer is an excellent choice for a balanced diet, offering essential nutrients in a delicious way.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other types of vegetables for the filling?
Yes, you can experiment with zucchini or bell peppers, adapting the recipe to your preferences.

- How long can I keep the stuffed tomatoes?
This appetizer can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, covered with plastic wrap.

- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based cheese and butter to adapt the recipe.

Serving Suggestions: You can add a fresh green salad or a platter with various dips and tortilla for a complete culinary experience.

So, don’t hesitate to try this simple and delicious recipe for stuffed tomatoes with cheese. Whether it’s for a party, a family dinner, or just to indulge your taste buds, this dish will surely be a hit! Enjoy!