Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Herb Baked Tomatoes?
They are a simple and elegant side dish featuring fresh tomatoes topped with Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, then baked until tender.
How many calories are in one serving of this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 28 calories.
How many Weight Watchers points is each serving?
Each half tomato is calculated as 1 point on the Weight Watchers diet.
What is the serving size for these tomatoes?
The recipe makes 8 servings, which typically equates to one-half of a medium tomato per serving.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You only need three main ingredients: medium tomatoes, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for 4 medium-sized tomatoes that are halved and deseeded.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long do the tomatoes need to bake?
The tomatoes should bake for approximately 35 to 45 minutes.
How do I prepare the tomatoes before baking?
Slice the tomatoes in half and gently squeeze out the seeds before placing them cut side up in the baking dish.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, lightly spray a 1-quart shallow baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is 0.9 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
Each serving contains 3.1 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in each serving?
There is 1.4 grams of protein per serving.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, you can use a vegan parmesan cheese alternative and ensure the breadcrumbs are plant-based.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, simply substitute the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for a gluten-free breadcrumb variety.
What flavor profile does this dish have?
It features Italian flavors from the seasoned breadcrumbs and rich parmesan cheese.
Can I serve these tomatoes cold?
While they are intended to be served warm, they can be enjoyed at room temperature.
What is the topping made of?
The topping is a mixture of 3 tablespoons of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and 3 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese.
Is this a healthy side dish?
Yes, it is a healthy, low-calorie, and low-fat option suitable for many diets.
How do I know when the tomatoes are finished cooking?
The tomatoes are done when they are tender and the topping is golden and crispy.
How many total servings does the recipe provide?
The recipe provides 8 individual servings.
Why do I need to remove the seeds?
Removing the seeds prevents the tomatoes from becoming too watery or soggy during the baking process.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of seasoned breadcrumbs?
You can use plain breadcrumbs and add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a similar effect.
Is this recipe suitable for dinner parties?
Yes, its elegant appearance and delightful flavor make it an impressive dish for guests.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 1-quart shallow baking dish is recommended.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
The preparation is very fast, though the baking time takes about 35 to 45 minutes.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, though parmesan is traditional, other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano would also work.
How should the tomatoes be positioned in the dish?
They should be placed cut side up to hold the topping and cook evenly.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
These are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
While tomatoes have natural sugars, no added sugar is included in this recipe.