Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

There’s something undeniably charming about a platter of vibrant red cherry tomatoes, each one plump and glistening, especially when you know they are hiding a creamy, flavorful secret inside. Stuffed cherry tomatoes have become a staple in our household, not just because they are incredibly easy to make, but because they are always a crowd-pleaser. From summer barbecues to holiday gatherings, these little bites of deliciousness disappear in minutes. My kids, who are generally picky eaters when it comes to vegetables, devour these without hesitation. They love the tangy sweetness of the tomato combined with the rich, herby filling. And honestly, I do too! They are the perfect appetizer – light enough to not spoil your appetite, yet satisfying enough to keep everyone happy while the main course is being prepared. This recipe, which I’ve tweaked and perfected over time, is my go-to for effortless elegance and guaranteed smiles. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly extraordinary. Get ready to experience the joy of these little flavor bombs – they are about to become your new favorite appetizer too!

Ingredients

This recipe focuses on fresh, flavorful ingredients to create a delightful vegetarian stuffing for your cherry tomatoes.

• Fresh Cherry Tomatoes: (About 2 pints) – Choose firm, ripe cherry tomatoes. Their sweetness and slight acidity provide the perfect vessel for the creamy filling.
• Cream Cheese: (8 ounces, softened) – The base of our creamy stuffing. Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth and easily mixable filling.
• Fresh Herbs: (1/4 cup, finely chopped, combination of basil, chives, and dill) – A blend of fresh herbs adds brightness and aromatic complexity to the stuffing. Basil provides a sweet, peppery note; chives offer a mild oniony flavor; and dill brings a fresh, slightly tangy touch.
• Garlic Powder: (1 teaspoon) – A subtle hint of garlic enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the delicate herbs and tomatoes.
• Onion Powder: (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds a mild, savory depth that complements the garlic and herbs.
• Lemon Juice: (1 tablespoon, fresh) – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the filling and adds a touch of zest, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
• Salt: (To taste) – Enhances the flavors of all ingredients. Start with a pinch and adjust as needed.
• Black Pepper: (To taste, freshly ground) – Adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is preferred for its bolder taste.
• Optional – Finely Diced Bell Pepper (Red or Yellow): (1/4 cup, optional) – For a bit of crunch and color, finely diced bell pepper can be added to the stuffing. Red or yellow bell peppers offer a slightly sweet flavor and vibrant visual appeal.
• Optional – Finely Diced Kalamata Olives: (1/4 cup, pitted and finely diced, optional) – If you enjoy a briny, salty flavor, finely diced Kalamata olives can be incorporated into the stuffing for an extra layer of taste.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfect stuffed cherry tomatoes every time.

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Gently wash the cherry tomatoes under cool water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This ensures they are clean and ready for stuffing.
2. Cut the Tops: Using a sharp paring knife, carefully cut a small “cap” off the top of each cherry tomato, near the stem end. This creates an opening for the stuffing. Don’t discard the caps just yet!
3. Scoop out the Seeds: Using a small spoon (a melon baller or even the tip of a small teaspoon works well), gently scoop out the seeds and pulp from each tomato. Be careful not to pierce the sides of the tomatoes. This creates a cavity for the filling and prevents the tomatoes from becoming too watery.
4. Drain Tomatoes (Optional but Recommended): Invert the hollowed tomatoes onto a paper towel-lined plate or baking sheet. Let them drain for about 10-15 minutes. This step is optional but highly recommended as it removes excess moisture and helps prevent the filling from becoming watery.
5. Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped fresh herbs (basil, chives, and dill), garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice. If using, add the finely diced bell pepper and/or Kalamata olives at this stage.
6. Season the Stuffing: Season the cream cheese mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until the stuffing is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
7. Fill the Tomatoes: There are several ways to fill the tomatoes. You can use a small spoon to carefully scoop the stuffing into each tomato cavity. For a neater and more efficient method, you can transfer the cream cheese mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip (or simply use a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off). Pipe the filling into each tomato, filling it generously.
8. Replace the Tomato Caps (Optional): If desired, you can place the tomato caps back on top of the stuffed tomatoes for a more finished look. This is purely aesthetic.
9. Chill Before Serving: Arrange the stuffed cherry tomatoes on a serving platter. Cover the platter loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, before serving. Chilling helps the stuffing firm up and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serving them chilled also makes them wonderfully refreshing.
10. Garnish (Optional): Just before serving, you can garnish the stuffed cherry tomatoes with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

These nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. They are based on an estimated serving size of 3 stuffed cherry tomatoes.

• Servings: Approximately 8-10 servings (depending on tomato size and stuffing quantity)
• Serving Size: 3 stuffed cherry tomatoes
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Fat: 12-15 grams

Note: These values are estimates and should be considered as a general guideline. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

This recipe is wonderfully quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a delicious appetizer in a hurry.

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (includes washing, cutting, hollowing tomatoes, and preparing the stuffing)
• Chill Time: Minimum 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for optimal flavor and texture)
• Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes (including chilling)

This recipe is ideal for making ahead. You can prepare the stuffed cherry tomatoes up to 2 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve. This makes them a stress-free option for parties and potlucks.

How to Serve

Stuffed cherry tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them suitable for numerous occasions.

• As a Classic Appetizer:
  • Arrange them beautifully on a platter lined with fresh greens like lettuce or arugula for visual appeal.
  • Serve them chilled as a refreshing start to any meal.
  • Pair them with toothpicks or small appetizer forks for easy grabbing.
• Part of an Appetizer Platter:
  • Include them on a larger appetizer platter alongside other finger foods like:
    • Vegetable sticks with hummus or dip
    • Cheese and crackers
    • Olives and marinated artichoke hearts
    • Mini skewers with mozzarella balls and basil leaves
• Alongside Grilled Dishes:
  • Serve them as a light and flavorful side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
  • Their coolness contrasts nicely with the warmth of grilled food, especially during summer BBQs.
• For Cocktail Parties:
  • They are elegant and bite-sized, perfect for cocktail parties and gatherings.
  • Their vibrant color adds a festive touch to any cocktail spread.
• Picnics and Potlucks:
  • They are portable and travel well, making them a great option for picnics and potlucks.
  • Just ensure they are kept chilled until serving.
• Garnishing Ideas for Serving:
  • Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra chopped fresh herbs like basil, chives, or dill on top for added freshness and visual appeal.
  • Balsamic Glaze: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess.
  • Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavors and adds a subtle richness.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (for a touch of spice): A very light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick for those who like a bit of heat.

Additional Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your stuffed cherry tomatoes are a resounding success every time:

1. Choose the Right Tomatoes: Select firm, ripe cherry tomatoes that are uniform in size. Avoid tomatoes that are overly soft or bruised. Roma tomatoes (plum tomatoes) can also be used, cut into smaller, bite-sized pieces if cherry tomatoes are unavailable, though cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and size.
2. Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. This will prevent lumps and ensure a smooth and creamy stuffing. If you are short on time, you can microwave it briefly in 10-second intervals, being careful not to melt it.
3. Don’t Overfill: While you want to generously fill the tomatoes, avoid overfilling them to the point where the stuffing spills out. Overfilling can make them messy to eat.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the cream cheese stuffing before filling the tomatoes and adjust the seasoning (salt, pepper, lemon juice, herbs) to your liking. Personal preference is key to a perfect flavor profile.
5. Make Ahead for Convenience: Stuffed cherry tomatoes can be made up to 2 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes them a great make-ahead appetizer for parties and gatherings.
6. Get Creative with Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different stuffing variations. Consider adding ingredients like:
   • Sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
   • Feta cheese (crumbled)
   • Pesto
   • Roasted red peppers (finely diced)
   • Smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
7. Use a Piping Bag for Neater Filling: Using a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with a corner cut off) makes filling the tomatoes much easier and neater, especially if you are making a large batch.
8. Garnish Just Before Serving: If you plan to garnish with fresh herbs, balsamic glaze, or olive oil, do so just before serving to maintain the freshness and visual appeal of the garnish. Garnishing too far in advance can cause herbs to wilt or glaze to become sticky.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Here are some common questions and answers to help you master the art of making stuffed cherry tomatoes:

Q1: Can I make stuffed cherry tomatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, absolutely! Stuffed cherry tomatoes are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them up to 2 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This makes them a stress-free appetizer for parties and gatherings.

Q2: How long do stuffed cherry tomatoes last in the refrigerator?
A: Stuffed cherry tomatoes are best enjoyed within 2-3 hours of preparation. While they can last a bit longer in the refrigerator (up to 24 hours), the tomatoes may become slightly softer and the filling might lose some of its freshness. For optimal texture and flavor, it’s best to consume them within a few hours.

Q3: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: While fresh herbs are highly recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. If using dried herbs, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so use about 1/3 of the amount called for fresh (e.g., if the recipe calls for 1/4 cup of fresh herbs, use about 1 tablespoon of dried herbs). However, the fresh taste of herbs really elevates this recipe.

Q4: Can I freeze stuffed cherry tomatoes?
A: Freezing stuffed cherry tomatoes is not recommended. The tomatoes and cream cheese filling can change texture and become watery upon thawing, significantly affecting the quality and taste of the appetizer. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or within a few hours of preparation.

Q5: What are some vegetarian stuffing variations I can try?
A: There are numerous delicious vegetarian stuffing variations! Some ideas include:
* Sun-dried Tomato and Pesto: Combine sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and cream cheese.
* Feta and Olive: Mix crumbled feta cheese, finely diced Kalamata olives, and herbs.
* Roasted Red Pepper and Garlic: Blend roasted red peppers with garlic, cream cheese, and a touch of smoked paprika.
* Spicy Jalapeño and Cheddar: For a kick, combine cream cheese with finely diced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese.

Q6: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be dairy-free or vegan. Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative. There are many excellent vegan cream cheese options available made from cashews, almonds, or soy. Ensure the plant-based cream cheese is also softened before mixing.

Q7: What if I don’t have a piping bag? Can I still fill the tomatoes neatly?
A: Absolutely! If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a zip-top plastic bag. Simply spoon the cream cheese mixture into the bag, seal it, and then snip off a small corner of one of the bottom corners of the bag. This makeshift piping bag works just as well for filling the tomatoes neatly. You can also use a small spoon, though it may be a bit more time-consuming.

Q8: My stuffed cherry tomatoes are getting watery. How can I prevent this?
A: To prevent stuffed cherry tomatoes from becoming watery, ensure you scoop out the seeds and pulp thoroughly and, crucially, drain the hollowed tomatoes upside down on paper towels for about 10-15 minutes before filling. This step removes excess moisture from the tomatoes and helps the filling stay creamy and intact. Also, avoid over-salting the filling, as salt can draw out moisture from the tomatoes.

This recipe for stuffed cherry tomatoes is a delightful and versatile appetizer that is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of creating these little bursts of flavor and the smiles they bring to your table!

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