🥓🍅 Bacon and Tomato Cups are a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for those who enjoy the savory and crispy goodness of bacon combined with the freshness of ripe tomatoes. These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also quite easy to make.
History:
The history of Bacon and Tomato Cups is not extensively documented, but it’s safe to say that the combination of bacon and tomatoes has been enjoyed for many years. Bacon-wrapped or bacon-stuffed dishes are popular in various cuisines around the world.
Components:
To make Bacon and Tomato Cups, you will need the following ingredients:
- Bacon strips (usually one per cup)
- Ripe tomatoes (one per cup)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
- Toothpicks (to hold the cups together)
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s how you can prepare Bacon and Tomato Cups:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare the Bacon: Take a muffin tin and turn it upside down. Drape a strip of bacon over each cup, forming a cup shape. You can secure the ends with toothpicks.
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Bake the Bacon: Place the upside-down muffin tin on a baking sheet to catch any drippings and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and holds its cup shape.
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Prepare the Tomatoes: While the bacon is baking, slice the tops off the tomatoes and carefully remove the seeds and excess liquid. Season the insides with a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Assemble the Cups: Once the bacon cups are ready, carefully remove them from the muffin tin and let them cool slightly. Then, place a tomato inside each bacon cup.
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Add Cheese and Basil: Fill each tomato cup with shredded cheese and top with a fresh basil leaf.
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Bake Again: Place the filled bacon and tomato cups back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Remove the toothpicks and serve your delicious Bacon and Tomato Cups while they’re still warm.
Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Bacon and Tomato Cups will vary, but you can expect it to take around 30-40 minutes from start to finish. This includes prep time, baking time, and assembly. It’s a relatively quick and easy dish to make, making it perfect for a party appetizer or a tasty snack.
Enjoy your Bacon and Tomato Cups! 🥓🍅😋
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Bacon and Tomato Cups:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, Per Serving):
- Calories: 130-160 kcal
- Total Fat: 10-12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
- Cholesterol: 15-20 mg
- Sodium: 250-350 mg
- Carbohydrates: 1-2 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Sugars: 0-1 gram
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Vitamin A: 5-10% of daily value
- Vitamin C: 10-15% of daily value
- Calcium: 5-10% of daily value
- Iron: 2-4% of daily value
Please note that the exact nutrition facts can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use, especially the type of bacon and cheese. These numbers are general estimates.
Health Information:
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Protein: Bacon and Tomato Cups provide a decent amount of protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall bodily functions.
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Fats: The primary source of fat in this recipe is bacon, which contains both saturated and unsaturated fats. While saturated fats should be consumed in moderation, unsaturated fats are considered healthier. You can opt for leaner cuts of bacon or turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.
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Sodium: Bacon is known for its high sodium content, so it’s important to be mindful of your overall sodium intake, especially if you have hypertension or heart-related concerns. Reducing the amount of added salt during preparation can help.
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Vitamins: These cups provide a modest amount of vitamins, with vitamin A and vitamin C coming from the tomatoes. Both are essential for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and the immune system.
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Calcium: The cheese in this recipe contributes to calcium intake, important for bone health.
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Carbohydrates: This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those on low-carb diets.
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Fiber: While this recipe doesn’t provide a significant amount of fiber, you can increase the fiber content by using whole-grain ingredients or serving with a side of vegetables.
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Moderation: As with any dish, moderation is key. Bacon and Tomato Cups are a tasty treat, but due to their bacon content, they are not considered a health food. They can be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence, but it’s advisable to balance them with a well-rounded, nutritious diet.
Keep in mind that these nutritional values can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes, so it’s a good practice to check specific product labels for more accurate information.
