Refreshing Ranch Tuna-Stuffed Summer Tomatoes
This vibrant and satisfying dish is perfect for those hot summer evenings when you want something light and delicious. Juicy tomatoes are filled with a flavorful mixture of solid white tuna, kidney beans, corn, and cheddar cheese, all brought together with a creamy ranch dressing. This nutritious recipe is not only visually appealing but also packed with protein and fiber, making it an ideal starter or light main dish for any summer gathering. Chill the filling to enhance the flavors, and enjoy a refreshing, no-cook meal that everyone will love!
4
Servings
200
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Solid white tuna
1 (6-ounce can, drained)
Kidney beans
1 (8-ounce can, rinsed and drained)
Corn
1 (8-ounce can, drained)
Shredded cheddar cheese
4 (ounces)
Bottled ranch dressing
2/3 (cup)
Chopped green onion
1/4 (cup)
Fresh tomatoes
4 (large)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, rinsed kidney beans, drained corn, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and chopped green onion. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and it to chill.
3
While the filling is chilling, prepare the tomatoes. Carefully core each tomato and scoop out the seeds and flesh using a spoon, creating a hollow space for the filling.
4
Make shallow cuts in each tomato, slicing it into 5-6 wedges without cutting through to the bottom. Gently pull apart the wedges to create an opening.
5
Once the filling is chilled, generously spoon the tuna mixture into each prepared tomato, gently pressing down to pack it in if needed.
6
Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or a light main dish, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
9
Fat
16
Carbs
13
Protein
4
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein source in Refreshing Ranch Tuna-Stuffed Summer Tomatoes?
The primary protein source in this recipe is solid white tuna, with additional protein coming from kidney beans and cheddar cheese.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
How long should the tuna filling be refrigerated before serving?
The filling should be refrigerated for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and to ensure it is properly chilled.
What are the main ingredients for the tuna filling?
The filling consists of drained solid white tuna, rinsed kidney beans, drained corn, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and chopped green onions.
What is the calorie count for a single serving of these stuffed tomatoes?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of this dish?
There are 9 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides 13 grams of protein.
Are there many carbohydrates in this recipe?
There are 16 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this a high-fiber recipe?
Each serving contains 4 grams of fiber, contributing to a nutritious meal.
Do I need to cook any of the ingredients?
No, this is a no-cook recipe, making it ideal for hot summer days.
How should I prepare the tomatoes for stuffing?
Core each tomato and scoop out the seeds and flesh, then make shallow cuts into 5-6 wedges without cutting through to the bottom.
What type of tuna is recommended?
The recipe calls for one 6-ounce can of solid white tuna, drained.
What kind of beans are used in the mixture?
One 8-ounce can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained, is used.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
While the recipe specifies an 8-ounce can of drained corn, you could use thawed frozen corn as a substitute.
How much ranch dressing is required?
The recipe uses 2/3 cup of bottled ranch dressing.
What type of cheese should I use?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese.
Are green onions necessary for this recipe?
Yes, 1/4 cup of chopped green onions adds flavor and color to the tuna mixture.
Can this dish be served as a main meal?
Yes, it can be served as either a refreshing appetizer or a light main dish.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy and is packed with protein and fiber from the tuna, beans, and fresh tomatoes.
How many tomatoes are needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 4 large fresh tomatoes.
What is the best way to scoop out the tomato flesh?
Using a spoon is the most effective way to carefully remove the seeds and flesh after coring the tomato.
How many wedges should I cut each tomato into?
Each tomato should be sliced into 5 to 6 wedges without cutting all the way to the bottom.
Should I serve the tomatoes immediately after stuffing?
Yes, for the best texture and flavor, serve them immediately after stuffing with the chilled filling.
Can I use different types of beans?
While kidney beans are specified, you could substitute them with black beans or chickpeas depending on your preference.
What is the texture of the filling?
The filling is creamy due to the ranch dressing and shredded cheese, with a slight crunch from the corn and green onions.
Is this a good recipe for summer gatherings?
Absolutely, its refreshing nature and visual appeal make it perfect for summer gatherings.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
The nutritional data indicates no sugar, though this may depend on the specific brand of ranch dressing used.
How much sodium is in this dish?
The specific sodium content is not listed in the provided data, but it will be influenced by the canned goods and ranch dressing.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
It can be if you ensure the bottled ranch dressing and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What makes this dish visually appealing?
The bright red tomatoes contrast beautifully with the colorful filling of yellow corn, red beans, and green onions.