Tulips made of red stuffed with cheese

Stuffed cherry tomatoes with cheese - A colorful and fresh delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 7

Introduction

Stuffed cherry tomatoes with cheese are an excellent choice for an elegant appetizer or a fresh side dish. This recipe not only looks spectacular but also offers an explosion of flavors, making it ideal for summer days or festive meals. Moreover, the preparation process is simple and quick, so anyone can embark on the cooking adventure.

A bit of history

It is fascinating how stuffed vegetables, such as tomatoes, have become a symbol of creative cuisine over time. From simple fillings with rice or meat to vegan and healthy variants, each culture has added a personal touch. In this recipe, cheese adds a creamy texture and rich flavor, transforming the tomatoes into true edible works of art.

Ingredients

- 7 cherry tomatoes
- 6 sprigs of dill
- 4 green onions
- 140 g fluffy cheese with sour cream

Preparing the tomatoes

1. Washing and preparing the tomatoes: Start by washing the cherry tomatoes well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities. After washing, use a sharp knife to make a cross incision at the top of each tomato, being careful not to cut all the way through.

2. Removing the stem: Using the same knife, cut out the stem of the tomato. This step is important as it will allow for proper filling of the tomatoes with cheese.

3. Hollowing out the tomatoes: Use a teaspoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp from inside the tomatoes. This will create a generous space for the filling. Make sure not to remove too much of the tomato wall so that it remains structured.

4. Rinsing and drying: After hollowing out the tomatoes, rinse them again under cold water and let them dry on a paper towel. This will prevent excess moisture in the filling.

Preparing the filling

1. Chopping the herbs: Wash the 6 sprigs of dill and 4 green onions well. Chop them finely so they integrate perfectly into the cheese mixture.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the fluffy cheese with sour cream, dill, and chopped green onions. Use a spatula to mix the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preferences.

3. Filling the tomatoes: Put the filling in a clean plastic bag and cut off a corner to make filling the tomatoes easier. Fill each tomato with the cheese mixture, ensuring it reaches all corners.

Assembling the tulips

1. Decorating the plate: Take a green onion leaf, wash it well, and insert it into the opening of the tomato (where the stem was). This detail will not only add an elegant look but also provide an extra burst of flavor.

2. Arranging on the plate: Place the stuffed cherry tomatoes on a platter. You can also add 2 onions, cut in half, next to the tomatoes for a contrast of colors and textures.

3. Finalizing the decoration: Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh dill on top and tie the bouquet of tulips with a green onion for an elegant look.

Serving and presentation

These stuffed cherry tomatoes with cheese are perfect to be served as an appetizer at a festive meal or at a gathering with friends. They pair excellently with a glass of chilled white wine or a fruit cocktail. They can also be served alongside a fresh green salad for a light and healthy lunch.

Useful tips

- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to add a unique flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a few slices of chili pepper to the cheese mixture.
- These stuffed tomatoes can be prepared a few hours before serving; just make sure to keep them in the refrigerator.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry?
Yes, but make sure to choose the firmest ones so they don't fall apart during filling.

2. Is this recipe vegan?
You can adapt the recipe using vegan cheese and olive oil instead of sour cream.

3. How many calories do stuffed cherry tomatoes with cheese have?
A serving of 7 stuffed cherry tomatoes can have approximately 120-150 calories, depending on the type of cheese used.

Nutritional benefits

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and cheese adds protein and calcium, making this appetizer a healthy and nutritious choice. Dill not only enhances the flavor but also contributes essential vitamins and minerals.

Possible variations

- Instead of cheese, you can use a mixture of mashed avocado with lemon for a vegan version.
- Add finely chopped black olives to the filling for a Mediterranean taste.

I wish you great success in preparing these stuffed cherry tomatoes with cheese! Whether you serve them at a special meal or simply enjoy them on an ordinary day, I am sure they will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!