Elevate your appetizer or side dish game with these irresistible Special Topped Tomatoes, a perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors. This recipe features juicy, ripe tomatoes hollowed out and filled with a delectable mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, garlic, and a hint of dried basil, creating a balance of texture and taste in every bite. Baked to golden perfection with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, these gluten-free friendly delights are ready in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Whether served as a warm appetizer or alongside your favorite proteins, these easy-to-make tomatoes are guaranteed to steal the spotlight on your table.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the tops off the large tomatoes and scoop out some of the seeds and pulp to create a hollow center. Set them aside on the baking sheet.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the olive oil and spices.
Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously into the hollowed-out tops of each tomato, pressing slightly to ensure the mixture is packed in.
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the tops of the tomatoes to help them crisp up during baking.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
Remove the tomatoes from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
Serve warm as an appetizer or a side dish. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Calories |
897 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 58.3 g | 75% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.0 g | 75% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 1884 mg | 82% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 72.1 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.3 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.5 g | ||
| Protein | 30.3 g | 61% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 567 mg | 44% | |
| Iron | 4.9 mg | 27% | |
| Potassium | 1822 mg | 39% | |
*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.