Stuffed Tomatoes With Herbs Recipe | What’s the Secret Ingredient?
Discover the perfect summer dish with our Herb-Stuffed Tomatoes recipe! Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, these tomatoes are filled with a delicious mixture of savory herbs, breadcrumbs, and melted cheese.
This dish is incredibly versatile, serving as an elegant appetizer, a light lunch, or a beautiful side to any main course. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, it’s a delightful way to enjoy the season’s best produce. Get ready to wow your guests with this rustic and charming recipe!
Ingredients Required
A simple list of fresh ingredients is all you need to create this masterpiece.
- 6 large, ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to cook Stuffed Tomatoes With Herbs?
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect stuffed tomatoes.
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Tomatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
Slice the tops off the tomatoes. Gently scoop out the pulp and seeds, leaving the tomato walls intact. Chop the tomato pulp and set it aside, discarding the seeds.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped tomato pulp, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, oregano, and minced garlic. Mix well.
Step 4: Moisten the Filling
Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
Step 5: Stuff the Tomatoes
Spoon the herb and breadcrumb mixture evenly into the hollowed-out tomatoes.
Step 6: Arrange and Bake
Arrange the stuffed tomatoes in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tops.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Your Questions Answered
Here are some common questions to help you perfect your dish.
What are the best tomatoes for stuffing?
Beefsteak or other large, round, and firm tomatoes are ideal for stuffing as they hold their shape well during baking and offer plenty of space for the filling.
Can I make these stuffed tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the tomatoes a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for the best results.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option?
For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with cooked quinoa, rice, or gluten-free breadcrumbs. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Pro Tips for Extra Deliciousness
For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat. You can also mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a gooier, cheesier texture. To make this a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked ground meat or sausage to the stuffing mixture.
