Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe ๐
Description: This flavorful recipe for Lentil Stuffed Tomatoes is not only a tasty and healthy side dish but also perfect as a main course for vegetarians. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a low-cholesterol, low-protein meal with a European and Greek twist. These stuffed tomatoes also make a convenient lunch option, as they reheat well for the next day’s work.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1/2 cup lentils
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion
- 8 tomatoes
- 1 bunch fresh mint
- Garlic (to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
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Prepare Rice and Lentils: Start by putting the rice and lentils in boiling water and covering the pot. Allow them to cook for about 10 minutes or until tender.
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Prepare Onion Mixture: While the rice and lentils are cooking, melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Slowly fry the chopped onion until it turns golden brown, creating a fragrant and flavorful base for the stuffing.
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Prepare Tomatoes: While the onion is frying, slice off the tops of the tomatoes and set them aside. Carefully scoop out the insides of the tomatoes and chop them finely to incorporate into the stuffing mixture later.
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Mix Stuffing: Once the onion is golden brown, add the cooked rice and lentils to the pan. Mix everything together well, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. Stir in the chopped mint and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
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Stuff Tomatoes: Fill each hollowed-out tomato with the lentil and rice mixture, ensuring they are generously packed. Place the reserved tomato tops back on each tomato to seal in the flavors.
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Prepare Garlic Oil: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with minced garlic to infuse it with delicious garlic flavor.
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Bake: Stand the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish, then pour the garlic-infused olive oil mixture around them. This will help keep the tomatoes moist and add an extra layer of flavor. Bake the stuffed tomatoes in a preheated oven at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully.
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Serve: Once baked, remove the stuffed tomatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves if desired, and enjoy this delightful dish as a satisfying side or main course.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 144.2
- Fat: 6.7g
- Saturated Fat: 2.3g
- Cholesterol: 7.6mg
- Sodium: 32.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 18.9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4.3g
- Protein: 3.3g
Keywords:
Beans, Greek, European, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Quick & Easy, Oven-Baked, Inexpensive