Caprese Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes: A Mediterranean Delight
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our delectable Caprese Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes. This tantalizing dish combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes with the nutty goodness of quinoa, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mozzarella
- 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Tomatoes: Cut the tops off the tomatoes and reserve them. Scoop out the pulp and seeds, leaving a 1/2-inch thick shell. Sprinkle the inside of the tomatoes with salt and pepper.
Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Make the Filling: While the quinoa cooks, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, basil, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black olives. Season with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
Stuff the Tomatoes: Spoon the quinoa mixture into the prepared tomato shells. Press down gently to pack it in.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and the filling is heated through.
Serve: Remove the tomatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before topping with the reserved tomato tops. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the mozzarella.
- To add extra flavor, drizzle the stuffed tomatoes with additional olive oil or balsamic vinegar before baking.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried basil.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Serve the stuffed tomatoes with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
Variations:
- Greek Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes: Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped Kalamata olives to the filling.
- Italian Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese to the filling.
- Mexican Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes: Use corn, black beans, and salsa in the filling.
Benefits:
- Rich in Nutrients: Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Antioxidant Power: Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases.
- Heart-Healthy: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Refreshing and Summery: This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, as it is light, refreshing, and bursting with vibrant flavors.
Conclusion:
Caprese Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes are a culinary masterpiece that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine. With their tantalizing flavors, nutritional value, and versatility, these stuffed tomatoes are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a healthy and delicious meal, this recipe will not disappoint. So gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
