Stuffed Tomatoes with Chickpeas and Spinach: A Delicious Plant-Based Recipe

Stuffed tomatoes make for a beautiful and nutritious dish that is both vibrant and satisfying. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner, family gatherings, or even a casual weekend lunch. In this recipe, we’ll create a delightful filling using chickpeas, spinach, and aromatic herbs. The combination of flavors will bring a rich and savory taste, enhancing the sweetness of the tomatoes themselves.

Whether you’re looking for a plant-based main dish or a creative side, these stuffed tomatoes are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to prepare these mouthwatering stuffed tomatoes with chickpeas and spinach.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Tomatoes

• 6 large ripe tomatoes (any variety that’s easy to hollow out, such as beefsteak or heirloom)

Filling

• 1 can (400g) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s go through the steps to create these delicious stuffed tomatoes:

Step 1: Preparing the Tomatoes

1. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under cool water and pat them dry with a towel.
2. Cut off the tops of the tomatoes. Set these tops aside as they can be used later as “lids” for the stuffed tomatoes.
3. Scoop out the insides of each tomato with a spoon, being careful not to pierce the sides. Place the scooped-out flesh in a bowl and set it aside.
4. Once all the tomatoes are hollowed, turn them upside down on a plate to let any excess liquid drain out while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Making the Filling

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring occasionally until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Next, add the chickpeas to the skillet. Using a fork or potato masher, gently mash about half of the chickpeas, leaving some whole for texture. This creates a thicker, more cohesive filling.
5. Season the filling by adding the dried basil, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the seasonings.
6. Pour in the scooped tomato flesh that you reserved earlier. Stir everything together and let the filling simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. If you prefer a crunchy topping, stir in the breadcrumbs at this stage. Mix everything thoroughly, then remove the skillet from heat.

Step 3: Stuffing the Tomatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the hollowed tomatoes in a baking dish, arranging them upright.
3. Spoon the filling mixture into each tomato, packing it gently to fill all the way to the top. Mound a little extra on top if desired.
4. If you like, place the tomato tops (lids) you set aside earlier over each stuffed tomato. This can help retain moisture while baking.

Step 4: Baking the Stuffed Tomatoes

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender but still hold their shape. If you added breadcrumbs, they should turn golden during baking.
2. Once baked, remove the tomatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed tomatoes with chickpeas and spinach can be served as a main course, especially if you’re following a plant-based diet. They also pair wonderfully as a side dish with a variety of other meals. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

• With a side of quinoa or couscous: The grains complement the stuffed tomatoes well, making for a complete and filling meal.
• Alongside a mixed green salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the warm stuffed tomatoes.
• As part of a Mediterranean platter: Combine these stuffed tomatoes with other Mediterranean-style dishes like roasted vegetables, olives, and pita bread for a flavorful and diverse meal spread.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Tomatoes

1. Choose the right tomatoes: Look for tomatoes that are large and firm. Heirloom or beefsteak varieties work well due to their size and ability to hold up during baking.
2. Avoid overstuffing: While it might be tempting to add extra filling, be careful not to overfill the tomatoes. An overstuffed tomato can lose its shape or break during baking.
3. Experiment with flavors: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. You can try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary or spices like cumin for a different twist.
4. Make it ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. This makes it easy to assemble and bake the stuffed tomatoes when you’re ready to enjoy them.
5. Try different toppings: While breadcrumbs are a great choice, you could also top the tomatoes with grated dairy-free cheese for a different texture and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is flexible and can be adapted based on your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some variations you might like to try:

• Add other vegetables: You can include finely diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms in the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Substitute chickpeas: If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, try using white beans or lentils as an alternative. They work well in the filling and add a hearty element to the dish.
• Add a hint of citrus: A splash of lemon juice over the filling before baking can add brightness and a refreshing touch.
• Include your favorite herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro can be stirred into the filling for a more aromatic flavor.

Conclusion

Stuffed tomatoes with chickpeas and spinach are a versatile, delicious, and visually appealing dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser whether you serve them as a main course or a side dish. This recipe offers a great way to enjoy fresh tomatoes in a new and creative way, and it’s easy to adapt based on your preferences or available ingredients.

Enjoy making these stuffed tomatoes and sharing them with family and friends! They’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection for their simplicity, delightful flavors, and vibrant presentation.