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Need a new veggie side to serve with dinner? Try these simple baked tomatoes with a melted parmesan topping!
I can’t believe Christmas is just two weeks away! This December has been full of traveling for me, so I feel like I haven’t been home much. In fact, as you’re reading this Monday morning, I’ll be in the sky traveling to Chicago for an overnight trip.
A couple weeks ago, I was in Galveston, Texas for a work conference. My coworkers and I went out to dinner at a fancy seafood restaurant that was AMAZING. I always order seafood when I’m out on work dinners– because Nick hates seafood and it’s my only chance, haha! Anyway, we went to this restaurant that overlooked the ocean and we ordered some delish seafood– appetizers were panko crusted asparagus with creamy crab sauce. I ordered the crab cake stuffed shrimp with macaroni and cheese and parmesan tomatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Baked Parmesan Tomatoes are a delightful and simple way to enjoy juicy tomatoes with a savory twist. They make for a perfect side dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. The combination of melted parmesan with basil and oregano provides a wonderful aromatic experience that will complement any meal.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Cooking spray
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2–3 large beefsteak tomatoes
- 1 cup shaved parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp dried basil
- 1 Tbsp dried oregano
- 2 Tbsp fresh Italian parsley, roughly chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Slice the tomatoes into 1/4″ slices and arrange on the baking sheet.
- Top each slice with enough parmesan to cover the top, as well as a sprinkling of basil and oregano.
- Bake for 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with the fresh chopped Italian parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of herbs to suit your taste preference.
- Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed over each tomato slice for consistent flavor.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat.
- Swap out parmesan for mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor.
- Serve over a bed of arugula for a refreshing salad-style side.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
These Baked Parmesan Tomatoes are low in calories and packed with nutrients from the tomatoes and herbs. Each serving provides a good source of vitamins A and C, while also offering a delightful dose of protein from the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can use any large, firm tomato variety, but beefsteak tomatoes work best due to their size and flavor.
Can these be prepared in advance?
It’s best to prepare and serve them fresh to enjoy the melted cheese and fresh herbs at their peak.
Conclusion
These Baked Parmesan Tomatoes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly delicious! Give them a try, and let me know how you liked them by sharing your experience in the comments below. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish!
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