Stuffed tomatoes

When I have a lot of ripe tomatoes and someone wants something quick, I always choose this simple option. I discovered that it is one of the most convenient summer snacks. It doesn't require much work, and the ingredients are usually already in the fridge. I prefer to use firmer tomatoes so they don't soften when stuffed, but it also works with the classic ones from the market. I like that they don't need to be cooked, so they work very well even on hot days.

Quick Info

Total time: 15-20 minutes
Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Cooking time: no cooking
Servings: depends on how many tomatoes you use, approximately 4-6 tomatoes
Difficulty: easy
Recipe type: quick appetizer, cold snack, picnic

Ingredients

- tomatoes (choose firm ones, as many as you want)
- smoked Kaiser (thinly sliced, to taste)
- cream cheese (spreadable type)
- green olives (one for each tomato)
- herbs de Provence (or other aromatic dried herbs)
- red bell pepper (half, finely chopped)
- salt
- pepper

Preparation method

1. Wash the tomatoes and lightly score the top with a small knife, possibly using a special tool if you have one. Do not cut all the way through, just enough to fill the inside.
2. Sprinkle each tomato with a little salt and pepper, directly inside the cut.
3. Finely chop the red bell pepper. Place a teaspoon of pepper in each tomato, right in the middle.
4. Then add small strips of smoked Kaiser, also in the middle of the tomato, over the pepper.
5. Using a piping bag or a spoon, add the cream cheese on top to cover the filling and provide a consistent layer on the surface.
6. Place a green olive on top of each stuffed tomato.
7. Sprinkle herbs de Provence over the cheese layer.
8. If desired, drizzle a little olive oil over each tomato at the end.

Why I make this recipe often

It is one of the snacks I can make quickly, especially when I don't feel like using the oven. It has few, flexible ingredients. Stuffed tomatoes can be made for guests as an appetizer or for a light meal. They are prepared directly, with no waiting times and do not involve many dishes. The result looks good on a platter, but also in a packed lunch.

Tips and variations

Tips

- Use tomatoes that are not too soft, so they remain firm after stuffing.
- To prevent the filling from leaking, do not scoop too much from the tomato; just score and gently press the flesh if needed.
- Pitted green olives are easier to place and eat.

Substitutions

- Smoked Kaiser can be replaced with bacon, pressed ham, or prosciutto, but the smoky flavor remains interesting.
- Cream cheese can be replaced with ricotta, soft goat cheese, or a cheese and yogurt mix for a lighter texture.
- If you don't have herbs de Provence, use oregano, dried basil, or even fresh parsley.

Variations

- Add capers or chopped red onion for extra flavor.
- You can use black olives if you don't have green ones.
- For a spicy version, add a little chopped chili pepper.

Serving ideas

- Serve on a cold platter, simply arranged, or as part of an antipasti.
- You can take them on a picnic or pack them, but I recommend eating them on the same day they are made.
- They are also suitable as a snack before a main meal or in a cold buffet.

Frequently asked questions

Can they be made in advance, a few hours ahead?
Yes, they can last a few hours in the fridge, but ideally, they should be served the same day. The cream cheese can release water if left too long.

Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, any spreadable cheese or ricotta works. It should be creamy enough to be piped or spooned.

What kind of tomatoes are best?
Firm tomatoes with smooth skin, without cracks. I do not recommend very large or overly juicy tomatoes.

Can I omit the bell pepper or Kaiser?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will be simpler. You can adapt according to your preferences.

Can I use black olives?
Yes, if you prefer their taste or if that's what you have on hand.

Nutritional values

Approximately, for a medium stuffed tomato:
Calories: 70-90 kcal
Protein: 3-4 g
Fat: 5-6 g (varies depending on how much cream cheese and Kaiser is used)
Carbohydrates: 3-4 g
Values may vary depending on the type of cheese and the amount of Kaiser. It is a moderately low-calorie appetizer with a significant amount of protein and fat from the cheese.

Storage and reheating

Best consumed the same day. If they need to be stored, keep them in the fridge in a well-sealed container. I do not recommend storing for more than 24 hours, as the tomatoes release water and the filling can become soggy. Reheating is not recommended, as it is a cold snack. If there are leftovers, consume them cold, directly from the fridge.

 Ingredients: tomatoes, smoked sausage, cream cheese, green olives, herbs de Provence, red pepper, salt, pepper

 Tags:  stuffed tomatoes