Parmesan baked tomatoes are a delicious and simple dish that makes a great side or appetizer for brunch or dinner.
Baked tomatoes offer a range of nutritional benefits, and the cooking process can enhance certain aspects. Here are some potential benefits of baked tomatoes:
- Increased Antioxidant Content: Cooking tomatoes can actually boost their antioxidant levels. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been associated with various health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers.
- Enhanced Lycopene Absorption: The heat from baking tomatoes can increase the bioavailability of lycopene, making it easier for the body to absorb this beneficial compound.
- Vitamin C Preservation: While some vitamin C may be lost during cooking, baking is a relatively gentle method that helps preserve a significant amount of this essential vitamin. Vitamin C is important for immune function, skin health, and wound healing.
- Fiber Retention: Tomatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Baking tomatoes allows them to retain a good portion of their fiber content.
- Heart Health: The antioxidants and other compounds in tomatoes may contribute to heart health by helping to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, the potassium content in tomatoes can support healthy blood pressure.
- Improved Taste and Texture: Baking tomatoes can enhance their natural sweetness and create a rich, savory flavor. The texture can become tender, making them more enjoyable for those who may not prefer the raw texture of fresh tomatoes.
- Versatility in Cooking: Baked tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, from side dishes like the parmesan baked tomatoes mentioned earlier to incorporating them into casseroles, pasta dishes, or even as a topping for proteins like chicken or fish.
- Nutrient Retention: While some cooking methods may result in nutrient loss, baking is generally considered to be a method that retains a good portion of the nutrients in tomatoes.
Remember, the overall nutritional content of baked tomatoes can depend on factors such as the specific cooking method, the duration of baking, and any added ingredients. As with any food, balance and moderation are key to a healthy diet.
Parmesan Baked Tomatoes
Yield:
4 servings
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Parmesan baked tomatoes are a delicious and simple dish that makes a great side or appetizer for brunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the very top of the tomato off. Place the tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet . (Slice off a very thin piece of the bottom of the tomato to balance them if necessary.)
- In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over each tomato slice.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top of the tomatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the Parmesan is melted and golden brown, and the tomatoes are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.