Stuffed tomatoes with green beans

Culinary Delight: Stuffed Tomatoes with Green Beans

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Welcome to the world of fresh flavors and vibrant colors! Today, we will focus on an easy-to-make yet extremely tasty recipe - stuffed tomatoes with green beans. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a family dinner, bringing together simple ingredients for a spectacular result. Stuffed tomatoes with green beans are not only delicious but also healthy, packed with vitamins and minerals. Let’s get started!

A Brief History of the Recipe

Stuffed tomatoes are a dish with deep roots in traditional cuisine, found in various forms and combinations in many culinary cultures. This simple and versatile recipe can be adapted according to the season, available ingredients, and personal preferences. Tomatoes, in particular, are a star ingredient, full of antioxidants and vitamins, adding a touch of freshness to our dishes.

Ingredients

- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 200-250 g green beans
- 50 ml olive oil (or to taste)
- Apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice (to taste)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (or to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Ingredient Details

- Tomatoes: Choose well-ripened tomatoes with a firm texture. Summer Romanian tomatoes are the most delicious, but you can also use other types like cherry tomatoes or beefsteak tomatoes.
- Green beans: They are packed with nutrients, providing an important source of fiber. Choose fresh green beans, free of blemishes or yellowing.
- Olive oil: A healthy choice, rich in monounsaturated fats. You can also experiment with canola oil or walnut oil for a different flavor.
- Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a slightly sweet-sour taste, while balsamic vinegar offers a deeper note. Lemon juice is an excellent alternative for a fresh taste.
- Garlic: A wonderful ingredient that enriches the flavor of the dish. If you want a milder taste, use one clove of garlic.
- Parsley: Adds not only a fresh taste but also a vibrant look to the dish.

Step by Step: Preparing Stuffed Tomatoes

1. Preparing the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes well under cold running water. Dry them with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, cut a small lid off the top of each tomato, being careful not to cut too deep. Using a teaspoon or a small knife, carefully scoop out the insides, leaving about a 1 cm edge. Sprinkle a little salt inside the tomatoes, then drizzle with apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice. Place them upside down on a clean towel to drain.

2. Boiling the green beans: In a pot, bring water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt. Wash the green beans, breaking off the ends. Boil the green beans for about 5-7 minutes until they are crisp but not soft. Once boiled, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes, then chop them into small pieces.

3. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped green beans with olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Mix well to blend all the flavors. This filling is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the green beans and garlic, which have antioxidant properties.

4. Stuffing the tomatoes: Take the drained tomatoes and fill them with the green bean mixture, sprinkling chopped parsley on top for added flavor and color. The dish is now ready to be enjoyed!

5. Serving: Stuffed tomatoes with green beans can be served as is, as an appetizer or side dish, or accompanied by a fresh salad. An excellent combination would be alongside a raw vegetable salad or some good homemade bread.

Useful Tips

- You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as red peppers or onions, to diversify the flavors.
- If you are looking for a vegan option, make sure to use oils and vinegars without animal-derived ingredients.
- If you want an extra burst of flavor, try adding diced feta or mozzarella cheese to the filling.
- Stuffed tomatoes with green beans can be prepared a few hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator, making them ideal for parties or family meals.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This recipe for stuffed tomatoes with green beans is not only tasty but also healthy. One serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Green beans contribute fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals, being a food that supports digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of vegetables? Absolutely! Vary the filling by adding vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or even quinoa for a vegetarian option.

2. Can I prepare the tomatoes a day in advance? Yes, stuffed tomatoes can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavor will intensify!

3. How can I serve this recipe? Stuffed tomatoes can be served cold or at room temperature, making them ideal for picnics or summer meals.

In conclusion, stuffed tomatoes with green beans are a simple and versatile recipe, perfect for any occasion. With every bite, you will feel the fresh taste of the tomatoes and the rich flavor of the filling. I invite you to try them and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Experiment with the ingredients and make this recipe unique to your tastes. Bon appétit!