Herb-Crusted Parmesan-Baked Tomatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these Herb-Crusted Parmesan-Baked Tomatoes. This delightful recipe combines the freshness of plum tomatoes with a savory breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, accented with aromatic thyme and garlic. Perfect as a flavorful accompaniment to any meal or as a light appetizer, these baked tomatoes are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy them warm from the oven or at room temperature, and share the joy of this simple yet satisfying dish with family and friends.
8
Servings
40
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Plum Tomatoes
8 (Cut in half lengthwise, seeds and pulp removed)
Plain Breadcrumbs
1 cup (None)
Parmesan Cheese
1/3 cup (Grated)
Fresh Thyme Leaves
1 teaspoon (None)
Garlic Clove
1 (Minced)
Olive Oil
3 tablespoons (None)
Salt
to taste (None)
Black Pepper
to taste (Freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Carefully cut the plum tomatoes in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to gently scoop out some of the pulp and seeds, being careful not to damage the tomato skin. Place the hollowed tomatoes cut side down on paper towels to drain any excess moisture.
3
Arrange the drained tomatoes cut side up in a greased oven-safe baking dish. Generously season the insides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4
In a mixing bowl, combine plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme leaves, minced garlic, and olive oil. Season the mixture with a pinch of black pepper to taste.
5
Spoon the herb-infused breadcrumb mixture evenly over each tomato half, ensuring a nice layer on top.
6
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the tomatoes are tender.
7
Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Herb-Crusted Parmesan-Baked Tomatoes!
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
4.25g
Carbs
1.5g
Protein
0.75g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herb-Crusted Parmesan-Baked Tomatoes?
They are a savory side dish or appetizer made by topping halved plum tomatoes with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme, and garlic.
How many calories are in one serving of this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 40 calories.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is completely vegetarian-friendly.
What kind of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for plum tomatoes because of their firm texture and size.
At what temperature should I preheat my oven?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long do the tomatoes need to bake?
They should bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?
Yes, though fresh thyme is recommended for the best flavor, you can use a smaller amount of dried thyme as a substitute.
How do I prevent the tomatoes from being too watery?
Scoop out the pulp and seeds, then place the tomatoes cut-side down on paper towels to drain excess moisture before stuffing.
What are the ingredients in the herb crust?
The crust is made of plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme leaves, minced garlic, and olive oil.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 2 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
There are 4.25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this dish contain any protein?
Yes, there is 1.5 grams of protein per serving.
How much fiber is in the baked tomatoes?
Each serving provides about 0.75 grams of fiber.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the plain breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
Should I peel the tomatoes before baking?
No, the skin should be left on to help the tomatoes hold their shape during the baking process.
Can I use panko instead of plain breadcrumbs?
Yes, panko breadcrumbs will work well and provide a crunchier texture to the topping.
What can I serve these baked tomatoes with?
They are a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or pasta.
Can I prepare these tomatoes in advance?
You can prep the tomatoes and breadcrumb mixture ahead of time, but it is best to assemble and bake them just before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What is the best way to reheat them?
Reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the crust crispy.
Can I add other herbs to the mixture?
Yes, herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley would be excellent additions or substitutions.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, the instructions recommend using a greased oven-safe baking dish.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The serving size is one-half of a stuffed plum tomato.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor, but 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used if fresh is unavailable.
Should the tomatoes be served warm or cold?
They can be enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is low in calories and uses fresh vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Absolutely, you can easily double the ingredients and use a larger baking sheet to serve more guests.