Taco Tomatoes: A Fresh and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Taco tomatoes are a delightful and creative twist on traditional tacos, combining the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef with the freshness of ripe tomatoes. This recipe transforms juicy beefsteak tomatoes into edible bowls filled with all your favorite taco ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a unique appetizer, a fun dinner idea, or a low-carb alternative to traditional tacos, taco tomatoes are sure to impress.

Ingredients

To make taco tomatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 3/4 lb. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 (1-oz.) packet taco seasoning
• 4 large, ripe beefsteak tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Filling

First, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is mostly browned, add the packet of taco seasoning. Continue cooking until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Flip the tomatoes so they are stem-side down on your cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make six wedges in each tomato, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will allow the tomatoes to open up like a flower, creating a bowl for the taco filling. Carefully spread open the wedges of each tomato to create space for the taco filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Taco Tomatoes

Now, divide the prepared taco meat evenly among the tomatoes, spooning it into the open wedges. After that, top each tomato with shredded Mexican cheese blend, shredded iceberg lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the taco tomatoes immediately to enjoy them at their freshest and most flavorful. For a fun variation, try stuffing the tomatoes lasagna-style. Top the filled tomatoes with a little ricotta, mozzarella, and basil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Tricks

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

For the best taco tomatoes, choose large, ripe beefsteak tomatoes. They should be firm but juicy, with a vibrant red color. Avoid tomatoes that are overly soft or have blemishes, as they may not hold their shape well when filled.

Preparing the Ground Beef

When cooking the ground beef, it’s important to break it up into small pieces to ensure even cooking and a good distribution of seasoning. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, continually break up the meat as it cooks. Draining the fat after cooking helps to keep the taco filling from being too greasy.

Customizing the Toppings

Feel free to get creative with the toppings for your taco tomatoes. In addition to the traditional toppings of cheese, lettuce, and sour cream, consider adding:

• Sliced Avocado or Guacamole: Adds creaminess and a rich flavor.
• Pico de Gallo or Salsa: Adds freshness and a bit of spice.
• Black Beans or Corn: Adds extra texture and flavor.
• Jalapeños or Hot Sauce: Adds a spicy kick for those who like it hot.

Making it Vegetarian

For a vegetarian version of taco tomatoes, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use black beans and corn as the base filling. Season them with taco seasoning just as you would the ground beef.

Nutritional Benefits

Taco tomatoes are a healthier alternative to traditional tacos, especially for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake. By using tomatoes instead of taco shells, you increase your intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K, and they also provide a good source of dietary fiber.

Conclusion

Taco tomatoes are a delicious and innovative way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a fresh, new format. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. With a balance of savory taco meat, creamy toppings, and juicy tomatoes, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different fillings and toppings, taco tomatoes are a versatile and nutritious addition to your culinary repertoire.

Taco Tomatoes: A Fresh and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

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• Author: hdrecipes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Taco Tomatoes are a creative and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a taco without the traditional shell. Fresh tomatoes are hollowed out and filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and classic taco toppings. This low-carb, gluten-free dish is perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer.

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Ingredients

1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

3/4 lb. ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

1 (1-oz.) packet taco seasoning

4 large, ripe beefsteak tomatoes

1/2 c. shredded Mexican cheese blend

1/2 c. shredded iceberg lettuce

1/4 c. sour cream

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Instructions

Step 1

 

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and cook, stirring, until soft, 5 minutes. Add ground beef and taco seasoning. Cook, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, 8 minutes. Drain fat.

 

Step 2

 

Flip over tomatoes so they’re stem-side down and slice to make 6 wedges, being careful not to cut all the way through. Carefully spread open wedges.

 

Step 3

 

Divide taco meat among tomatoes, then top each with cheese, lettuce, and sour cream before serving.

 

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course, Appetizer
• Method: Baking, Broiling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg