Mediterranean Feta-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Discover a delightful fusion of flavors with these Mediterranean Feta-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes. Perfect for gatherings or as an elegant appetizer, these bite-sized morsels feature tender cherry tomatoes filled with a creamy, savory feta cheese mixture combined with the crunch of red onion. Drizzled with a zesty olive oil dressing and infused with aromatic dried oregano, they provide a refreshingly tangy and herbaceous taste that transports you straight to the Mediterranean coast. With their vibrant colors and delicious flavors, these stuffed tomatoes are sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe collection.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
cherry tomatoes
1 pint (washed and tops cut off)
feta cheese
4 ounces (crumbled)
red onion
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
olive oil
1/2 cup (for dressing)
cider vinegar
1/4 cup (for dressing)
dried oregano
1 tablespoon (for seasoning)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Preheat your kitchen by gathering all the necessary ingredients and ensuring your work surface is clean.
2
Carefully cut a thin slice off the top of each cherry tomato and scoop out the pulp with a small spoon or a melon baller. Discard the pulp and invert the tomatoes onto paper towels to drain excess moisture.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese and finely chopped red onion, mixing until well incorporated. Spoon this savory mixture generously into each hollowed-out cherry tomato, filling them to the brim.
4
In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, cider vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Seal the jar and shake it vigorously until the ingredients are well mixed and emulsified.
5
Place the stuffed tomatoes on a serving platter and drizzle the prepared dressing over the top. For enhanced flavor, cover the platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6
Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mediterranean Feta-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes?
They are bite-sized appetizers featuring tender cherry tomatoes filled with a creamy, savory feta cheese mixture and topped with a zesty herb dressing.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients: cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion, olive oil, cider vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
What type of cheese is used for the stuffing?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese.
How do I prepare the cherry tomatoes?
Wash the tomatoes, cut off the tops, and scoop out the pulp with a small spoon or melon baller.
What can I use to hollow out the tomatoes?
A small spoon or a melon baller is the best tool for removing the tomato pulp.
Should I drain the tomatoes after hollowing them?
Yes, invert the hollowed tomatoes onto paper towels to drain excess moisture before filling.
What is the dressing made of?
The dressing is an emulsified mixture of olive oil, cider vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains only vegetables, cheese, and plant-based oils.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
What type of onion should I use?
The recipe specifies using finely chopped red onion for the filling.
How long should the tomatoes chill before serving?
They should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor experience.
Can I use a different vinegar instead of cider vinegar?
While cider vinegar is recommended, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar if needed.
How do I mix the dressing?
Combine the dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight lid and shake vigorously until emulsified.
Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
Yes, but you may need to use more fresh oregano than the 1 tablespoon of dried oregano called for in the recipe.
What should I do with the tomato pulp?
The recipe suggests discarding the pulp, but you can also save it for use in sauces or soups.
Are these tomatoes served hot or cold?
They are served chilled or at room temperature, making them a refreshing appetizer.
Can I use grape tomatoes instead?
Yes, grape tomatoes can be used, though their shape may make them slightly harder to stand upright.
How do I keep the tomatoes from rolling on the plate?
You can slice a very thin piece off the bottom of each tomato to create a flat surface to stand on.
What is the texture of the filling?
The filling has a creamy texture from the crumbled feta combined with a slight crunch from the red onion.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for quick preparation.
Can I add garlic to the recipe?
While not in the original ingredients, finely minced garlic would be a great addition to the feta mixture.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of olive oil.
Can I use white onion?
Red onion is preferred for its mild flavor and color, but white onion can be used in a pinch.
Is this dish dairy-free?
No, it contains feta cheese which is a dairy product.
Can I freeze these stuffed tomatoes?
Freezing is not recommended as it will ruin the texture of the fresh tomato and the feta cheese.
Is this a healthy snack?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy snack featuring fresh vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It offers a refreshingly tangy and herbaceous taste with savory notes from the feta.
How many cherry tomatoes do I need?
The recipe requires one pint of cherry tomatoes.
What are common occasions for this dish?
It is ideal for gatherings, parties, or as an elegant Mediterranean-style appetizer.