Imagine biting into a perfectly roasted tomato, bursting with flavor, filled with a delectable mixture of nutty quinoa, aromatic dill, and creamy feta cheese. This Stuffed Tomatoes with Dill and Pine Nuts recipe is not just a dish; it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience that will transport you straight to the sunny Mediterranean coastline. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a nutritious and elegant meal, this recipe is your ticket to instant kitchen stardom!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully wash the tomatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the tops off the tomatoes and gently scoop out the inner flesh and seeds, creating a hollow cavity. Be careful not to pierce the tomato walls.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, toasted pine nuts, chopped fresh dill, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix thoroughly.
- Season the quinoa mixture with salt and pepper, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Gently spoon the quinoa mixture into each hollowed tomato, pressing lightly to ensure a compact fill.
- Place the stuffed tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are standing upright.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the tomatoes are slightly softened and the filling is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional fresh dill and a sprinkle of pine nuts if desired. Serve warm as a appetizer or light main course.
Tips
- Choose firm, ripe tomatoes with thick walls to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
- Toast the pine nuts before adding them to the quinoa mixture to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch.
- When hollowing out the tomatoes, use a small spoon and be gentle to maintain the tomato's structural integrity.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a drizzle of olive oil over the stuffed tomatoes before baking.
- If quinoa isn't your preference, you can substitute with couscous or rice.
- Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the optimal texture and temperature.
- For a vegan version, replace feta with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 210kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 6mg
