Ricotta-stuffed truss tomatoes

Ricotta-stuffed truss tomatoes feature creamy ricotta combined with fresh herbs and lemon zest, creating a flavorful appetizer. They are easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining.

06 Jan 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

3/4 cup ricotta cheese
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chives
1 tsp fresh thyme
2 tbsp lemon zest
4 tomatoes

Ricotta-stuffed truss tomatoes are a delightful and healthy appetizer or side dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the fresh flavors of herbs and lemon zest. Easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or for a satisfying snack.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Carefully slice off the tops of the tomatoes and set them aside. These will act as lids.
- Using a spoon, gently scoop out the seeds and pulp from each tomato. Be cautious not to puncture the sides or the bottom of the tomatoes.
- Place the hollowed tomatoes upside down on a paper towel to drain any excess liquid.

3. Make the Ricotta Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, finely chopped chives, fresh thyme leaves, and lemon zest.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

4. Stuff the Tomatoes:
- Fill each hollowed tomato with the ricotta mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure they are generously stuffed.
- Place the filled tomatoes in a baking dish. If they are wobbly, slice a thin layer off the bottom of each tomato to help them stand upright.

5. Bake:
- Place the reserved tomato tops back on each stuffed tomato to act as lids.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese filling is heated through and slightly golden on top.

6. Serve:
- Remove the tomatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with extra chopped chives or a sprinkle of parmesan if desired.

Ricotta-stuffed truss tomatoes are a versatile and tasty dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions. With their combination of creamy, cheesy filling and fresh, vibrant flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course.

Ricotta-stuffed truss tomatoes FAQ:

What is the baking time for ricotta-stuffed truss tomatoes?

Bake the stuffed tomatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese filling is heated through and slightly golden on top.

How can I tell if the tomatoes are done cooking?

The tomatoes are done when they are tender to the touch, the cheese filling is heated throughout, and the tops have a slight golden color. You can test the tenderness by gently pressing on the side of a tomato.

What size tomatoes should I use for this recipe?

Medium-sized tomatoes are ideal for this recipe. They should be large enough to hold the ricotta filling but not too large that they become cumbersome to eat. Truss or vine tomatoes work well as they maintain their shape.

Can I make substitutions for the ricotta cheese?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor and texture, but the taste will vary. Adjust quantities as needed for consistency.

How should I store leftover ricotta-stuffed tomatoes?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Cooking Tips:

- Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for this recipe to ensure they hold their shape after being stuffed.

- For best results, drain the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.

- Feel free to adjust the quantities of herbs and lemon zest to your personal preference for a more personalized flavor.

- To add a touch of sweetness, consider drizzling a little honey over the stuffed tomatoes before serving.

- Pair these stuffed tomatoes with a light salad or as a side dish to a main course for a balanced meal.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 100kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 1.92g
Sugar 3.69g
Fat 4.71g

Ricotta-stuffed truss tomatoes