Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large tomatoes
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the top of each tomato and scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon.
3. In a bowl, mix together the mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 175
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or feta.
- Instead of breadcrumbs, you can use almond flour or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese mixture for a heartier dish.
- Use different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to choose ripe tomatoes that are firm but not too soft.
- If the cheese mixture is too dry, add a little more olive oil.
- You can also sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed tomatoes before baking for a crispy topping.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the stuffed tomatoes on a bed of fresh greens for a colorful presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle some extra chopped basil on top of the stuffed tomatoes before serving.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted asparagus
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled zucchini
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the tomatoes thoroughly before cutting and stuffing them.
Food history:
- Stuffed tomatoes have been a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- The combination of mozzarella cheese and fresh basil gives these stuffed tomatoes a delicious Italian flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish with a side salad or as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish.
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Region: Italian