Tomatoes Florentine Recipe
🍅 Introduction:
Tomatoes Florentine is a delightful dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of tomato season, but it’s equally enjoyable year-round. Bursting with wholesome ingredients and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack. This recipe, adapted from “Smart Cooking” by Anne Lindsay, combines the freshness of tomatoes with the richness of spinach and cheese, creating a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this Canadian-inspired culinary delight!
Recipe Overview:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: Canadian
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Keywords: Vegetable, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Kid Friendly, Summer, Oven, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 6 |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Onion | 1 |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Frozen chopped spinach | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/3 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh ground pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp chopped |
| Parmesan cheese | 2 tbsp grated |
| Bread crumbs | For topping |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 86.8
- Fat: 2.9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 5.7mg
- Sodium: 108mg
- Carbohydrates: 12.8g
- Fiber: 3.7g
- Sugar: 4.5g
- Protein: 4.8g
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Cut a slice from the top of each tomato.
- Scoop out the pulp to halfway down the tomato, saving it for sauce or soup.
-
Prepare the Filling:
- In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until tender.
-
Add Spinach Mixture:
- Stir in the frozen chopped spinach, milk, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the spinach is heated through.
-
Fill the Tomatoes:
- Spoon the spinach mixture into each tomato, distributing it evenly.
- Arrange the stuffed tomatoes in an ovenproof serving dish or on a baking sheet.
-
Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese.
-
Bake:
- Sprinkle the topping mixture over the stuffed tomatoes.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until the tomatoes are heated through and the topping is golden brown.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the Tomatoes Florentine from the oven.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious dish with your family and friends!
Recipe Notes:
- Tomato Selection: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best results.
- Spinach Variation: Feel free to use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Simply wilt it down in the pan before filling the tomatoes.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese for the topping, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique flavor twist.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the stuffed tomatoes in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these Tomatoes Florentine as a light lunch or alongside your favorite protein for a more substantial meal. They also make a great side dish for pasta or grilled meats.
Conclusion:
Tomatoes Florentine is a versatile and delicious dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, these stuffed tomatoes are guaranteed to impress. Give this recipe a try and savor the irresistible flavors of this Canadian-inspired culinary creation!
