Greek Gemista: Flavorful Stuffed Tomatoes

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Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy tomato stuffed with a delightful mixture of rice, herbs, and vegetables. That’s the essence of Greek Gemista. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures, bringing the freshness of summer to your table all year round.

With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, Gemista is a dish that invites conversation and laughter around the dinner table. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting family dinner, this recipe combines simplicity with a burst of flavor that is sure to impress.

An Irresistible Greek Classic

Greek Gemista is a savory dish featuring ripe tomatoes filled with a seasoned rice mixture, cooked to perfection. The taste is a beautiful harmony of sweet tomato, aromatic herbs, and the nuttiness of rice, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup rice (preferably short-grain)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 cup tomato juice or water
• Feta cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides with a spoon, setting the pulp aside in a bowl. Be careful not to break the tomato shells.
2. Make the Filling: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Incorporate the reserved tomato pulp, parsley, mint, salt, pepper, and cinnamon, mixing well.
3. Stuff the Tomatoes: Carefully spoon the rice mixture into each tomato shell, packing it lightly. Leave a little space at the top as the rice will expand while cooking.
4. Bake: Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish, adding a little water or tomato juice to the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking. Drizzle with more olive oil and cover with the tops. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender.
5. Serve: Allow the Gemista to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, top with crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 180kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 27g