How to make Stuffed Tomatoes

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Stuffed tomatoes are a delicious and visually appealing dish that can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. Here’s a basic recipe for making stuffed tomatoes:

Ingredients:

  • 4 large tomatoes
  • 1 cup cooked rice (you can use white rice, brown rice, or any other type you prefer)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, zucchini, mushrooms)
  • 1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (e.g., basil, parsley, or cilantro), chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for drizzling
  • Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
    • Wash the tomatoes and cut off the tops.
    • Use a knife or a spoon to carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds from the tomatoes, leaving a hollow shell. Be gentle not to puncture the tomato skin.
  3. Prepare the Filling:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, finely chopped vegetables, minced garlic, grated cheese, and chopped fresh herbs.
    • Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
  4. Stuff the Tomatoes:
    • Take each hollowed-out tomato and stuff it with the rice and vegetable mixture. Press the filling down gently to pack it in.
    • Sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of each stuffed tomato for a crispy topping, if desired.
  5. Bake:
    • Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish.
    • Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each stuffed tomato to help them brown and become tender.
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
  7. Broil (Optional):
    • If you want the tops of the stuffed tomatoes to become more golden and crispy, you can remove the foil and broil them for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. This step is optional but adds a nice texture to the dish.
  8. Serve:
    • Carefully remove the stuffed tomatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
    • Serve them as an appetizer or a side dish. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Stuffed tomatoes can be customized with your favorite ingredients. You can experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and cheese to create your own unique flavor combinations. Enjoy your homemade stuffed tomatoes!

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