Bursting with savory herbs, fluffy rice, garlic, and cheese, these roasted Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes are a deliciously rustic dish—perfect as a vegetarian main or a vibrant side full of sun-soaked flavor. With their rich filling and caramelized tops, these tomatoes offer a comforting and nourishing taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes are hearty, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. They make a satisfying meatless main course or a standout side dish. The combination of tangy tomatoes, herbed rice, creamy feta, and Parmesan brings both texture and depth of flavor. Easy to make ahead and equally delicious warm or at room temperature, they’re ideal for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes for heat
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the tomatoes and set aside. Gently scoop out the tomato pulp with a spoon and transfer it to a bowl. Lightly salt the hollowed tomatoes and place them upside down to drain while preparing the filling.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Stir in the reserved tomato pulp and cook for about 5 minutes to reduce excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed tomato mixture, feta, Parmesan, parsley, basil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Mix well to create the stuffing.
- Carefully spoon the filling into the hollowed tomatoes and arrange them in a baking dish. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and place the tops of the tomatoes back on.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized on top.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Calories per serving: 185 kcal
Variations
- Grain Alternatives: Substitute quinoa, couscous, or farro for rice.
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked lentils or chickpeas for added substance.
- Different Cheeses: Try goat cheese or ricotta instead of feta for a milder flavor.
- Vegan Option: Omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
- Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts to the filling.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave gently. These tomatoes can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I prepare these tomatoes in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the tomatoes a day ahead and bake them when ready to serve.
Can I freeze stuffed tomatoes?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the tomatoes may become watery upon thawing.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Large, firm tomatoes such as beefsteak or heirloom varieties are ideal for stuffing.
Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, leftover rice works perfectly as long as it is not overly seasoned or sauced.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you use rice or a gluten-free grain, the dish is naturally gluten-free.
What can I serve with stuffed tomatoes?
Serve them with crusty bread, grilled vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Can I bake these in a muffin tin?
Yes, if the tomatoes are small enough, a muffin tin helps keep them upright during baking.
How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy?
Draining the scooped tomatoes and reducing the pulp on the stove helps eliminate excess moisture.
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, but use about one-third the amount compared to fresh herbs, and adjust to taste.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they reheat well and can be part of a vegetarian meal prep plan.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Stuffed Tomatoes are a vibrant, wholesome dish packed with fresh herbs, tender rice, and savory cheese. Their rustic elegance makes them perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Easy to customize and full of Mediterranean charm, they’re a delightful way to enjoy the season’s best tomatoes while celebrating bold, natural flavors.
PrintMediterranean Stuffed Tomatoes
Bursting with savory herbs, fluffy rice, garlic, and cheese, these roasted Mediterranean stuffed tomatoes are a deliciously rustic dish—perfect as a vegetarian main or a vibrant side full of sun-soaked flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes for heat
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the tomatoes and set aside. Gently scoop out the tomato pulp with a spoon and place in a bowl. Salt the hollowed tomatoes lightly and place them upside down to drain.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add tomato pulp and cook for 5 minutes to reduce moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed tomato mixture, feta, Parmesan, herbs, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.
- Spoon the filling into the hollow tomatoes and place them in a baking dish. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and place the tops back on.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with crusty bread or a side salad.
Notes
- Use heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes for best stuffing size and flavor.
- Quinoa can be used for a gluten-free alternative.
- Make ahead and reheat gently in the oven for easy meals.
- Customize with chopped olives or pine nuts for extra Mediterranean flair.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed tomato
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg