Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mediterranean Couscous and Feta Stuffed Tomatoes?
They are a vibrant and healthy dish featuring ripe tomatoes filled with a mixture of fluffy couscous, rich feta cheese, fresh herbs, and crunchy pistachios.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 6 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 133 calories.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 8g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each stuffed tomato?
There are 10g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is provided per serving?
Each serving provides 6g of protein.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius or 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to bake the stuffed tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be baked for 15 to 20 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
How do I prepare the couscous for the filling?
Pour boiling stock over the couscous in a bowl, cover tightly, and let it steam for about 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
What herbs are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons each of chopped fresh mint and fresh parsley.
How should I prepare the tomatoes for stuffing?
Cut the tops off the tomatoes and gently hollow them out with a teaspoon, discarding the seeds.
Do I need to keep the tomato tops?
Yes, you replace the top of each tomato like a lid after filling them.
What type of nuts are used in the filling?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios for a crunchy texture.
How much feta cheese is required?
You will need 100 grams of crumbled feta cheese.
Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
Yes, either chicken or vegetable stock can be used to steam the couscous.
What is the purpose of olive oil in this recipe?
Olive oil is used to drizzle over the tomatoes before baking and can be added again before serving for extra flavor.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
The stuffed tomatoes are best served immediately while they are warm.
Can I season the filling to my preference?
Yes, you should season the couscous mixture with salt and pepper to taste before stuffing the tomatoes.
What size tomatoes should I use?
The recipe specifies using 6 large ripe tomatoes.
How do I ensure the couscous isn't clumpy?
After the couscous has steamed for 10 minutes, fluff it thoroughly with a fork to break up any clumps.
Can I use this recipe as a main course?
Yes, it is versatile and works well as either a light main course or an appetizer.
What texture should the cooked tomatoes have?
The tomatoes should be tender and the tops should be slightly golden after baking.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients in total, including seasonings.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional data provided, there is no significant sugar content.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, the couscous mixture can be prepared ahead of time and kept refrigerated until you are ready to stuff and bake the tomatoes.
What should I do with the tomato seeds?
The seeds should be removed and discarded when hollowing out the tomatoes.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
While the specific fiber count isn't listed, the tomatoes, couscous, and pistachios all naturally contain fiber.
What makes this dish 'Mediterranean'?
The use of ingredients like couscous, feta, olive oil, mint, and parsley are hallmark flavors of Mediterranean cuisine.
How do I arrange the tomatoes for baking?
Place the stuffed tomatoes upright on a baking tray before drizzling with olive oil and putting them in the oven.