Stuffed tomatoes with cheese

Stuffed Tomatoes with Cheese – A Colorful and Tasty Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Introduction
Stuffed tomatoes with cheese are an ideal choice for a light summer meal or as a savory appetizer at a party. This dish brings together the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the intense flavor of cheese and the aroma of garlic, creating a delicious combination that delights the taste buds. By cooking this simple recipe, you will bring a touch of freshness and color to your table, and your guests will be impressed by its appearance and taste.

A Brief History
Stuffed tomatoes have a long tradition in kitchens around the world, being adapted and reinterpreted over the centuries. From simple dishes to sophisticated delicacies, stuffing vegetables with various ingredients has become a culinary art. In this recipe, we focus on the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients, preserving the traditional essence of this dish.

Ingredients
- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 300 g sheep cheese
- 100 g butter
- 1 clove of garlic
- 6-9 radishes
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste

Ingredient Details
- Tomatoes: Choose quality, firm, ripe tomatoes to ensure that the filling will perfectly blend with their sweet and juicy flavor.
- Cheese: Sheep cheese has a distinct, salty, and creamy taste that will wonderfully combine with the other ingredients. You can also opt for cow cheese if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Garlic: Adds a flavorful and spicy note. Use fresh garlic for the best aroma.
- Radishes: These will add a crunchy note and a vibrant look to your dish.
- Parsley: Provides a pleasant contrast of color and freshness.

Preparation Technique
1. Preparing the Tomatoes:
- Wash the tomatoes under cold running water and dry them with a clean towel.
- Cut each tomato in half lengthwise. Using a teaspoon, remove the seeds and pulp, being careful not to damage the walls of the tomatoes. This step will allow them to hold the filling better.

2. Preparing the Filling:
- Grate the cheese into a bowl, saving some for garnish.
- In another bowl, mix the grated cheese with the crushed garlic and melted butter, but not hot. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. You can also add a little salt, but be careful, as the cheese is already salty.

3. Filling the Tomatoes:
- Use a spoon to fill the tomato halves with the cheese mixture. Make sure the filling is well compacted.

4. Finalizing the Dish:
- Arrange the stuffed tomatoes on a plate. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and decorate with thinly sliced radishes and chopped fresh parsley.

5. Serving:
- These stuffed tomatoes can be served immediately, but they can also be refrigerated for an hour to intensify the flavors. Serve them as an appetizer or as a side dish to a delicious roast.

Practical Tips
- Variations: You can experiment with the filling by adding dill, olives, or even sweet corn for an original touch.
- Presentation: An interesting idea is to use a large platter and arrange the tomatoes in a circle, adding a fresh salad in the center. This will create an attractive presentation.
- Storage: If you have leftover filling, it can be kept in the refrigerator for the next few days. You can later use it to stuff other vegetables, such as peppers or zucchini.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress. Cheese provides a source of protein and calcium, while garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Together, these ingredients contribute to a balanced and healthy diet.

Calories
Each serving of stuffed tomatoes with cheese contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the proportions of the ingredients used. It is an excellent choice for an appetizer or a light snack.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
- Yes, you can experiment with feta cheese or goat cheese for different flavors.
2. Can I prepare the tomatoes a day in advance?
- It is recommended to fill them just before serving, but you can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
- A dry white wine or a fresh lemonade are excellent options that will complement the flavor of the stuffed tomatoes.

I conclude this recipe with a personal thought: cooking is an art, and every dish has a story. So, when preparing these stuffed tomatoes, remember the moments spent with loved ones and enjoy every bite. Savor this simple and delicious dish that will bring a smile to anyone's face!