Unstuffed Tomatoes is a tasty and nutritious dish that can be prepared quickly. This recipe features ripe tomatoes stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, vegetables, and herbs, making it a great option for a light lunch or dinner. The dish is easy to make and is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying meal. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy these unstuffed tomatoes in no time!
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small zucchini, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Directions
- Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the pulp and seeds using a spoon. Reserve the pulp.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the reserved tomato pulp, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked rice. Mix until well combined.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the hollowed tomatoes in a baking dish and fill each tomato with the rice and vegetable mixture.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each tomato.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese has melted and turned golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the tomatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
This recipe is a lighter alternative to traditional stuffed peppers, offering a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Tomatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a nutritious choice.
Unstuffed Tomatoes can be customized by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting the rice with quinoa for a gluten-free option.