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- 6 medium ripe tomatoes - 1 cup cooked quinoa - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon oregano - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste Gather these ingredients first. Using fresh, ripe tomatoes is key. Look for ones that are firm but yield slightly when pressed. The quinoa adds a nutty flavor and is a great source of protein. You can also use any leftovers from meals earlier in the week. Feta cheese brings a tangy taste that pairs well with the olives. Kalamata olives add depth and richness. Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and flavor. The red onion adds a nice crunch, while garlic enhances the overall taste. Make sure to have olive oil on hand. It helps bind the filling and adds moisture. Salt and pepper balance the dish nicely. Use these ingredients to create a meal that's full of flavor and nutrition. - Calories per serving: Approximately 200 - Macronutrient breakdown: - Carbs: 25g - Fats: 10g - Proteins: 7g - Vitamin and mineral content: - Vitamin C: 15% of daily value - Iron: 10% of daily value - Calcium: 8% of daily value This dish is not only tasty but also healthy. It packs a good amount of vitamins and minerals. The combination of ingredients supports a balanced diet. Enjoy these stuffed tomatoes as a great way to eat well. For the full recipe, check out the section above. 1. Preheating the oven Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven ensures even cooking. 2. Preparing the tomatoes Cut the tops off the tomatoes. Use a spoon to scoop out the insides. Set the pulp aside in a bowl. This pulp adds flavor to your filling. 1. Combining the ingredients In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, fresh parsley, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, and oregano. This mix brings great flavor. 2. Ensuring proper seasoning Dice the reserved tomato pulp and add it to your mix. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything blends well. Taste the filling to check the seasoning. 1. Packing the tomatoes Spoon the quinoa mixture into each hollowed tomato. Pack the filling gently. This helps prevent spillage while baking. 2. Baking time and temperature Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil on top if you like. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The tomatoes should be tender and slightly roasted when done. Enjoy these Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes as a tasty meal. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. To avoid soggy tomatoes, choose firm, ripe tomatoes. Hollow them out gently to keep their shape. Bake them until they are just tender, not mushy. This helps retain their structure. For a flavorful filling, use fresh herbs like parsley and oregano. Mix in diced tomato pulp for added taste. Season with salt and pepper. Taste the filling before stuffing. Adjust the spices to your liking for a personal touch. Garnish your stuffed tomatoes with fresh herbs. Sprinkle parsley or basil on top for color. You can also add a lemon wedge for a zesty kick. For ideal pairings, serve them with a crisp green salad or warm pita bread. A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors well. You can also enjoy them with a yogurt dip for extra creaminess. Use a sturdy baking dish, preferably glass or ceramic. These materials help cook the tomatoes evenly. Ensure it is deep enough to hold the stuffed tomatoes upright. For preparation, use a sharp knife and a spoon to scoop out the insides. A mixing bowl is essential for combining your filling ingredients. Having a measuring cup and spoons handy will help ensure accuracy in your recipe. Follow the Full Recipe for more detailed steps, and enjoy your Mediterranean adventure! {{image_2}} When you make Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes, you can get creative. Here are some fun ideas to change things up. You can swap quinoa with rice or couscous. Both options work well. Rice gives a soft texture, while couscous adds a nice bite. Use what you have on hand! For cheese, try goat cheese or mozzarella. Each brings a different flavor. If you want to skip cheese, add extra herbs for more taste. To make this dish vegan, skip the cheese and use a plant-based protein. Chickpeas or lentils are great options here. They add protein and keep the meal hearty. For gluten-free needs, use quinoa or rice. Both are safe options. You can also check the labels for gluten-free couscous. If you want a low-carb version, skip the grains altogether. Use diced eggplant or zucchini instead. This keeps your stuffed tomatoes light and fresh. You can add spices like cumin or paprika for extra warmth. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick, too. Get creative with spices you enjoy! Try adding other veggies, like bell peppers or spinach. They boost nutrition and add color. Mix them into the filling for a tasty surprise. Don't forget about Mediterranean herb blends! Consider using thyme, basil, or dill. Each adds a layer of flavor that will elevate your dish. By making these variations, you can enjoy stuffed tomatoes in many delicious ways. You can always find a new favorite! How long do Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes last in the fridge? They last about 3 to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. What are the recommended storage containers? Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids. This helps prevent any odors from your fridge from affecting the flavor. What are the best methods for reheating stuffed tomatoes? The oven works best. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tomatoes on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 to 15 minutes. How can you maintain texture and flavor? Cover them lightly with foil. This keeps moisture in, so the tomatoes don't dry out. Can Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes be frozen? Yes! You can freeze them for later use. What are the steps to freeze and reheat correctly? First, let the cooked tomatoes cool completely. Then, wrap each tomato in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven as before. Enjoy your easy Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes anytime! For the full recipe, check out the details. Can I prepare Mediterranean Stuffed Tomatoes in advance? Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge. Hollow out the tomatoes and fill them right before baking. This keeps them fresh and tasty. What can I serve with Mediterranean Stuffed Tomatoes? These stuffed tomatoes pair well with a crisp green salad. You could also serve them with warm pita bread. A light yogurt sauce can add a lovely touch too. What is the best type of tomato to use? Use medium ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. They should be firm but slightly soft. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work great for stuffing. Are there any substitutes for feta cheese? Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta as substitutes. They both add creaminess and flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using tofu with herbs. How do I know when the tomatoes are done? The tomatoes are done when they are tender and slightly wrinkled. You can poke them gently with a fork. If they give easily, they are ready. Can I grill stuffed tomatoes instead of baking them? Absolutely! Grilling gives a nice smoky flavor. Just wrap the tomatoes in foil and grill for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. To recap, we explored the delightful world of Mediterranean Stuffed Tomatoes. We covered ingredients, step-by-step prep, and baking techniques. I shared tips for perfecting your dish and suggested variations for different diets. Understanding storage and reheating could help your meal last longer and taste great. These stuffed tomatoes are healthy, versatile, and fun to make. Whether cooking for yourself or friends, this dish brings flavor and nutrition to the table. Enjoy experimenting with ingredients and make it your own!

Mediterranean Stuffed Tomatoes

Discover the delicious world of Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes with this easy recipe! Made with fresh ingredients like quinoa, feta, and olives, these baked tomatoes are perfect for a healthy dinner or a vibrant side dish. Follow our simple steps to create this flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table today!
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Ingredients
  

6 medium ripe tomatoes

1 cup cooked quinoa

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon oregano

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides using a spoon, setting aside the pulp in a bowl.

      In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, chopped olives, parsley, red onion, minced garlic, and oregano.

        Dice the scooped tomato pulp and add it to the mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

          Spoon the quinoa mixture into each hollowed tomato, packing the filling gently to prevent spillage.

            Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top if desired.

              Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and slightly roasted.

                Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed tomatoes warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, and a wedge of lemon on the side for a burst of color and freshness.