Savory Corn-Stuffed Tomato Delights
These Savory Corn-Stuffed Tomato Delights are a delightful and colorful dish that showcases the fresh flavors of summer produce. Perfectly vibrant tomatoes are hollowed out and filled with a warm, buttery corn mixture seasoned with Italian herbs and fresh basil. This dish is both elegant and comforting, making it an excellent choice for a light meal or a side dish. The optional mozzarella cheese adds a creamy touch, but they are equally delicious without it for a vegan-friendly option. Whether served fresh as a salad or baked for a warm, savory treat, these stuffed tomatoes will impress your family and friends with their flavor and presentation!
N/A
Servings
120
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
tomatoes
2 (halved and seeded)
corn
1 cup (fresh or frozen)
butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon (dried)
garlic
1/4 teaspoon (minced or powdered)
dried basil
1/2 teaspoon (or 1 teaspoon of fresh basil, chopped)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
mozzarella cheese
optional (shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if you prefer to bake the tomatoes.
2
Carefully cut the tomatoes in half and scoop out the seeds to create 'boats', being cautious not to scrape off the fleshy sides.
3
Sprinkle salt inside the tomato halves and place them cut side down on a plate or paper towels to drain excess moisture.
4
In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, butter (or margarine for a vegan option), garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5
Microwave the bowl for about two minutes or until the corn is heated through and the butter is melted. Stir the mixture to combine the flavors.
6
Turn the drained tomato boats right side up and generously fill each with the corn mixture. Top with chopped basil and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
7
If baking, place the filled tomatoes in a muffin pan to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the tomatoes are tender and the tops are slightly golden.
8
Serve hot or at room temperature, and enjoy your savory corn-stuffed tomatoes!
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
16.5g
Carbs
3.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Corn-Stuffed Tomato Delights?
They are a vibrant summer dish consisting of hollowed-out tomatoes filled with a seasoned, buttery corn mixture and baked until tender.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You will need tomatoes, corn, butter, Italian seasoning, garlic, basil, salt, pepper, and optional mozzarella cheese.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by using margarine or a plant-based butter substitute and omitting the optional mozzarella cheese.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C) if you choose to bake the tomatoes.
How long do the tomatoes need to bake?
The stuffed tomatoes should bake for approximately 20 minutes until they are tender and the tops are golden.
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, the recipe allows for either fresh or frozen corn to be used for the filling.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
What is the purpose of salting the tomatoes before stuffing?
Salting the inside of the tomato boats and placing them upside down helps drain excess moisture so the final dish isn't watery.
Can I serve these tomatoes cold?
Yes, these can be served fresh as a salad-style dish or baked for a warm treat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients list provided, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How do I prepare the tomatoes for stuffing?
Cut the tomatoes in half and carefully scoop out the seeds to create 'boats' without scraping off the fleshy sides.
What kind of cheese works best?
The recipe suggests shredded mozzarella cheese for a creamy touch, though it is optional.
Can I use garlic powder?
Yes, you can use either minced fresh garlic or garlic powder in the corn mixture.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in this dish?
This recipe provides 3.5 grams of protein per serving.
Why should I use a muffin pan for baking?
Placing the tomatoes in a muffin pan helps keep them upright and catches any drips during the baking process.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute the 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil with 1 teaspoon of fresh, chopped basil.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 16.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What seasonings are used in the corn filling?
The filling is seasoned with Italian seasoning, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
How do I heat the corn filling before stuffing?
Mix the corn, butter, and spices in a bowl and microwave for about two minutes until heated through and the butter is melted.
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
While standard tomatoes work well, any variety firm enough to hold its shape when hollowed out can be used.
Is this a healthy appetizer?
Yes, it is classified as a healthy appetizer featuring fresh produce and light seasoning.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
Can I make this in advance?
You can prep the tomato boats and the corn mixture in advance, but for best results, bake them just before serving.
What is the serving size?
The specific serving size is not listed, but the recipe uses 2 large tomatoes, typically yielding 4 halves.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Yes, you could experiment with adding finely diced peppers or onions to the corn mixture.
Is this dish suitable for summer parties?
Absolutely, it is described as a colorful dish that showcases fresh summer produce, perfect for entertaining.
What if I don't have a microwave?
You can heat the corn and melt the butter in a small skillet over low heat on the stove instead.
Is the mozzarella cheese required?
No, the cheese is optional and the dish is equally delicious without it for a lighter or vegan option.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The recipe is tagged with stuffed tomatoes, corn recipe, vegan option, Italian flavors, summer dish, and healthy appetizer.