Brighten your appetizer game with these flavor-packed Lemon Walnut Pesto Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes—a fresh, vibrant dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. This no-cook recipe combines sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes with a zesty, homemade pesto made from fragrant basil, rich walnuts, tangy lemon juice and zest, and savory Parmesan cheese. The creamy pesto filling balances crunch and citrusy brightness, while the tomatoes act as the perfect edible vessel. Easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, these bite-sized treats are ideal for parties, picnics, or an elegant snack. Serve them chilled for a refreshing burst of flavor that will impress your guests while highlighting seasonal ingredients. Perfect for anyone seeking healthy, gluten-free, and vegetarian appetizer options!
Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes. Using a small paring knife or melon baller, carefully cut off the tops and hollow out the seeds to create small tomato cups. Set aside.
In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, walnuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and the garlic clove. Pulse until roughly chopped.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to the food processor. Pulse a few more times to combine.
With the food processor running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth pesto. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed.
Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning as necessary. If desired, add a little more lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each hollowed-out cherry tomato with the lemon walnut pesto.
Arrange the stuffed cherry tomatoes on a serving platter and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Best enjoyed on the same day.
Calories |
1067 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 102.2 g | 131% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.5 g | 82% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 33.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 1546 mg | 67% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28.9 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.6 g | 38% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.0 g | ||
| Protein | 21.6 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 368 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 4.5 mg | 25% | |
| Potassium | 1234 mg | 26% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.