Easy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes with Rice and Herbs 

There is something cozy about this meal. It is the kind that makes you feel good after a hard day’s work. 

In this article, I will share my simple recipe guide with you. I will teach you how to make this meal with simple ingredients. Even if you are a beginner chef, this is friendly enough for you. 

Let’s start?!?

Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Tomatoes!

This meal is a light option for weeknights when you want something yummy but not too heavy. 

Furthermore, stuffed tomatoes with rice and herbs are a customizable meal. You can add veggies of your choosing. 

If you want an affordable but satisfying meal, this recipe is perfect. It is made using cheap ingredients, especially during tomato season!

Easy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes with Rice Recipe

In this section, we will discuss more about the recipe and step-by-step process that are involved in the making of this delicious meal. 

Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

• 6 medium ripe tomatoes (with tops intact)
• ¾ cup uncooked rice (short or long grain)
• 2 – 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 – 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A few breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

Easy Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Hollow out the tomatoes by cutting off the tops. Scoop out the pulp with a spoon. Then, place the hollowed tomatoes in a baking dish.
3. Finely chop the pulp and set it aside. 
4. The next step is to cook the filling in a skillet with olive oil, saute the onion and garlic until it is soft. 
5. Add the chopped tomato pulp and cook for another 2 -3 minutes. 
6. Add rice, herbs, salt, and pepper. 
7. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-5 minutes. This lets the rice absorb some of the juices. 
8. Remove your cooked dish from the heat.
9. Afterwards, stuff the tomatoes by spooning the rice mixture into each tomato. Let it fill about ¾ of each tomato. 
10. Replace the tomato tops like little lids and sprinkle with breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
11. Finally, bake the stuffed tomatoes for about 35-40 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the tops are lightly browned.

Voila! Your meal is ready. Just let it cool for a bit before enjoying it. 

Can I Use Uncooked or Cooked Rice?

I would not recommend using uncooked rice. The best one is the partially pre-cooked rice version, which is done with the tomato pulp BEFORE baking. Don’t directly stuff your tomatoes with uncooked rice. 

However, if you have leftover cooked rice, it can be used. Just reduce the baking time slightly to prevent it from becoming too soft and messy. 

Some (Easy!) Flavor Variations to Try

As I earlier mentioned, this recipe is quite adaptable. Below are a few easy variations you can try out.

• Add grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a cheesy version.
• Mix in capers, olives, or pine nuts for extra Mediterranean flair.
• Use cooked quinoa or bulgur instead of rice for a twist.

Baked stuffed tomatoes with rice and herbs are a rich, comforting meal. Your loved ones would enjoy every bite.

With this recipe I have shared in this article, you can be sure of making a classic delicacy that will be ready to serve in no time. 

Have fun cooking!