π₯π π₯¬ Bacon and Lettuce Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes π₯π π₯¬
Bacon and Lettuce Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes are a delightful appetizer that combines the rich, smoky flavor of bacon with the freshness of cherry tomatoes and the crispness of lettuce. This dish is perfect for parties, picnics, or as a tasty snack.
π History:
The history of this specific dish is not well-documented, but it draws inspiration from classic flavor combinations found in BLT sandwiches. The use of bacon, lettuce, and tomato has been popular for decades, and it’s likely that someone decided to create a bite-sized, stuffed version to showcase these flavors in a new and exciting way.
π₯ Components:
- Cherry Tomatoes: These small, sweet tomatoes serve as the edible vessel for the stuffing.
- Bacon: Crispy, savory bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor to the dish.
- Lettuce: Fresh lettuce provides a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich bacon.
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese acts as the binding agent for the filling.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices can be added for extra flavor.
π©βπ³ Preparation:
Here are the steps to prepare Bacon and Lettuce Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes:
Ingredients:
- 24-30 cherry tomatoes
- 6-8 strips of bacon
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped chives, parsley, or dill for garnish
Steps:
- Start by frying the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, crumble it into small pieces.
- While the bacon is cooking, cut the tops off the cherry tomatoes and scoop out the seeds and pulp. You can use a small spoon or a knife for this.
- In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the crumbled bacon and shredded lettuce. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add any optional herbs or spices at this point.
- Carefully stuff each cherry tomato with the cream cheese, bacon, and lettuce mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for this.
- Garnish with additional herbs or spices if desired.
- Serve your Bacon and Lettuce Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes on a platter and enjoy!
β° Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this dish may vary, but it typically takes around 20-30 minutes, making it a relatively quick and easy appetizer to whip up for your guests.
These Bacon and Lettuce Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes are not only visually appealing but also burst with flavor in each bite. They’re perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with your friends and family. Enjoy! π₯π π₯¬π
Certainly! Here’s some nutrition information and health considerations for Bacon and Lettuce Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes:
π½οΈ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 3 Stuffed Tomatoes):
- Calories: 85-100 calories
- Protein: 4-5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 3-4 grams
- Sugars: 1-2 grams
- Fat: 6-7 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 10-15 mg
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sodium: 150-200 mg
- Vitamin C: 20-30% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin A: 6-8% DV
- Calcium: 2-3% DV
- Iron: 2-3% DV
π Health Information:
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Moderation: While Bacon and Lettuce Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes can be a tasty treat, it’s essential to consume them in moderation. They are relatively low in calories, but the bacon and cream cheese can be high in saturated fats and sodium, so be mindful of portion sizes.
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Nutrient Balance: These stuffed tomatoes provide some essential nutrients, such as protein, fiber, and vitamins from the cherry tomatoes. The lettuce adds some dietary fiber, and the cream cheese contributes calcium.
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Bacon Considerations: Bacon is delicious, but it’s also a processed meat that’s high in saturated fats and sodium. It’s best to enjoy bacon-based dishes as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of your diet.
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Vegetable Inclusion: The use of cherry tomatoes and lettuce in this dish adds a dose of vegetables, which are rich in vitamins and fiber. This can be a sneaky way to get more veggies into your diet.
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Customization: You can make this dish slightly healthier by using turkey bacon or substituting a portion of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, which reduces saturated fat content.
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Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Be aware of dietary restrictions and allergies when serving this dish, as it contains dairy (cream cheese) and pork (bacon). You can adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs by using dairy-free cream cheese or vegetarian bacon alternatives.
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Hygiene: When preparing this dish, ensure proper food safety and hygiene practices, especially when handling raw bacon and stuffing the tomatoes. Wash your hands, utensils, and work surfaces thoroughly.
Remember that the exact nutrition facts may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients you use. If you’re looking for more detailed nutrition information or have specific dietary concerns, it’s a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist.
