Bursting with Flavor: Goat Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes – An Easy & Elegant Recipe

Goat cheese stuffed tomatoes are a delightful appetizer or light lunch that’s both visually appealing and incredibly flavorful. The creamy tang of goat cheese pairs perfectly with the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking and readily available ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, looking for a healthy snack, or simply craving something delicious and satisfying, these stuffed tomatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

**Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**

* **Simple and Quick:** This recipe requires minimal cooking and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
* **Fresh and Flavorful:** The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and fresh herbs creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
* **Versatile:** These stuffed tomatoes can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch.
* **Elegant Presentation:** Their vibrant colors and appealing presentation make them perfect for entertaining.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different herbs, spices, or fillings.
* **Healthy:** Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, these stuffed tomatoes are a nutritious and delicious option.

**Ingredients You’ll Need:**

* **Tomatoes:** Use medium-sized, ripe tomatoes. Roma tomatoes or beefsteak tomatoes work well. Choose tomatoes that are firm and have a vibrant color. Around 6-8 tomatoes should be sufficient for a good-sized appetizer.
* **Goat Cheese:** Opt for a soft, creamy goat cheese log. You can use plain goat cheese or one flavored with herbs or garlic for added complexity. About 4-6 ounces is usually enough.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs are essential for adding brightness and aroma to the filling. I recommend a combination of basil, chives, and parsley. You can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano.
* **Olive Oil:** Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and flavor. Use a good quality olive oil for the best results.
* **Garlic:** Minced garlic adds a savory note to the filling. Use fresh garlic for the most intense flavor.
* **Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Season the filling to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
* **Optional Add-ins:** Consider adding other ingredients to the filling, such as sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, pine nuts, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

**Detailed Instructions:**

**Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes**

1. **Wash and dry the tomatoes:** Gently wash the tomatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. **Cut off the tops:** Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the tops of the tomatoes, about ½ inch from the stem end. Set the tops aside – you can chop them and add them to the filling, or discard them.
3. **Scoop out the pulp:** Use a small spoon, such as a melon baller or grapefruit spoon, to carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds from the tomatoes. Be careful not to pierce the sides or bottom of the tomatoes. Reserve the pulp in a bowl.
4. **Drain the pulp:** Place the reserved tomato pulp in a fine-mesh sieve or strainer set over a bowl. Press down on the pulp with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the liquid. This step helps to prevent the stuffed tomatoes from becoming watery.
5. **Salt the tomato shells:** Lightly sprinkle the inside of each tomato shell with salt. This will help to draw out any remaining moisture and season the tomatoes from the inside.
6. **Invert the tomatoes:** Place the tomato shells upside down on a wire rack lined with paper towels. This will allow any excess moisture to drain out while you prepare the filling. Let them drain for at least 15-20 minutes.

**Step 2: Prepare the Goat Cheese Filling**

1. **Soften the goat cheese:** If the goat cheese is cold, allow it to soften at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to mix.
2. **Combine the ingredients:** In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (basil, chives, parsley), olive oil, and lemon juice. You can use a fork or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until they are well combined.
3. **Season to taste:** Season the filling with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be sure to taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. **Add optional ingredients (if desired):** If you are using any optional add-ins, such as sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, or pine nuts, stir them into the filling at this point.

**Step 3: Stuff the Tomatoes**

1. **Fill the tomatoes:** Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each tomato shell with the goat cheese filling. Mound the filling slightly on top of the tomatoes.
2. **Garnish (optional):** If desired, garnish the stuffed tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

**Step 4: Chill and Serve**

1. **Chill the tomatoes:** Cover the stuffed tomatoes with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the filling to firm up slightly.
2. **Serve chilled:** Serve the goat cheese stuffed tomatoes chilled as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch. They can be arranged on a platter or served individually.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Choose the right tomatoes:** Select ripe but firm tomatoes that are similar in size and shape. Roma tomatoes or beefsteak tomatoes are good choices.
* **Use high-quality goat cheese:** Opt for a creamy, tangy goat cheese log for the best flavor.
* **Don’t overfill the tomatoes:** Avoid overfilling the tomatoes, as this can cause the filling to spill out when serving.
* **Adjust the seasoning to your taste:** Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
* **Add a touch of sweetness:** For a touch of sweetness, add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze to the stuffed tomatoes.
* **Make it vegetarian/vegan:** To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative instead of goat cheese. Many delicious vegan cream cheese options are available in grocery stores.
* **Add some crunch:** Add some crunch by topping the stuffed tomatoes with toasted breadcrumbs, chopped nuts, or crumbled crackers.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a little heat.
* **Experiment with different herbs:** Try using different combinations of herbs to create unique flavor profiles. Some good options include thyme, oregano, rosemary, and dill.
* **Use different cheeses:** While goat cheese is the star of this recipe, you can also experiment with other cheeses, such as feta, ricotta, or cream cheese.
* **Grill the tomatoes:** For a smoky flavor, grill the tomato halves before stuffing them. Brush them with olive oil and grill them over medium heat for a few minutes per side.
* **Bake the tomatoes:** For a warm and comforting dish, bake the stuffed tomatoes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender.
* **Serve with a side salad:** Serve the stuffed tomatoes with a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great choice.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* **Appetizer:** Serve the goat cheese stuffed tomatoes as an appetizer at your next party or gathering. They are sure to be a hit with your guests.
* **Side Dish:** Serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
* **Light Lunch:** Enjoy them as a light and healthy lunch with a side salad or a piece of crusty bread.
* **Picnic:** Pack them in a container and take them on a picnic. They are easy to transport and make a delicious and refreshing snack.
* **Brunch:** Include them as part of a brunch spread. They are a great addition to any brunch table.

**Make-Ahead Tips:**

* **Prepare the tomatoes in advance:** You can prepare the tomatoes (wash, cut, scoop out the pulp, and salt the shells) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
* **Make the filling ahead of time:** The goat cheese filling can also be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* **Assemble the tomatoes shortly before serving:** It’s best to assemble the tomatoes (fill them with the goat cheese filling) shortly before serving, as the filling can become watery if stored for too long.

**Storage Instructions:**

* **Store leftovers in the refrigerator:** Store any leftover goat cheese stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tomatoes may become slightly watery after being stored, but they will still be delicious.
* **Do not freeze:** Freezing is not recommended, as the tomatoes will become mushy and the goat cheese filling will lose its texture.

**Recipe Card**

**Goat Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes**

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Chill Time:** 30 minutes
**Total Time:** 45 minutes

**Yields:** 6-8 servings

**Ingredients:**

* 6-8 medium-sized ripe tomatoes (Roma or beefsteak)
* 4-6 ounces soft goat cheese, at room temperature
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (basil, chives, parsley)
* 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* Optional add-ins: sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, pine nuts, red pepper flakes

**Instructions:**

1. Wash and dry the tomatoes. Cut off the tops and scoop out the pulp, reserving the pulp in a sieve to drain the liquid.
2. Salt the inside of the tomato shells and invert them on a wire rack to drain for 15-20 minutes.
3. In a bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, olive oil, and lemon juice.
4. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Add optional ingredients, if desired.
5. Fill each tomato shell with the goat cheese filling.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, or red pepper flakes, if desired.

**Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):**

* Calories: 150-200
* Fat: 10-15g
* Protein: 5-7g
* Carbohydrates: 5-8g

Enjoy these delightful and flavorful Goat Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes! This is a recipe you will want to keep on hand. Happy cooking!

This detailed guide provides everything you need to create perfect goat cheese stuffed tomatoes. From ingredient selection and step-by-step instructions to helpful tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be able to confidently prepare this delicious and elegant dish for any occasion. Enjoy!