Stuffed tomatoes with tuna are one of my favorite comfort foods, and they are healthy eating!
I created tuna-stuffed tomatoes using canned tuna to make them healthier.
Not only do I get the comfort food I want, but by omitting the bread and adding a whole tomato, I am increasing its nutritional value.
Stuffed tomatoes are versatile and can be filled with various ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Table of Contents
Bonus: Does this recipe qualify as Keto Stuffed Tomatoes with Tuna?
Discover the detailed answer below.
Introduction to Stuffed Tomatoes
Stuffed tomatoes are a delicious and versatile main course, side dish, or snack. Tuna stuffed tomatoes are often described as a quick and easy recipe to prepare.
The concept of stuffing tomatoes with various ingredients dates back to ancient times, and it’s a popular dish in many cuisines worldwide.
This recipe will focus on tuna stuffed tomatoes, a protein-packed and healthy option perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Tuna stuffed tomatoes combine the juicy goodness of fresh tomatoes with the savory flavors of a well-seasoned tuna salad, making them a delightful and nutritious choice for any meal.
Stuffed tomatoes can be served with green salad, rice, or soup.
Tuna-stuffed tomatoes are typically considered a low-carb meal option.
Stuffed tomatoes serve as edible bowls, making dishes visually appealing.
Cooking with fresh ingredients can bring out the natural sweetness of dishes.
Tuna Melt Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
Makes two servings
Ingredients:
- Four fresh tomatoes (we used medium-sized vine-ripe kind)
- Fresh heirloom tomatoes provide superior flavor compared to out-of-season tomatoes.
- Ripe tomatoes are sweeter and more flavorful than unripe ones.
- The freshness of tomatoes has a significant impact on the overall quality of a dish.
- In-season tomatoes are juicier and more flavorful than those stored for long periods.
- Two pouches of premium white tuna
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- One tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- And 1/2 tsp onion powder
- One green onion, diced (option: red onion)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- pinch salt & pepper
- Olive oil
Options:
- Add celery seed
- Add cream cheese and beat until fluffy
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice in the tuna mixture
- Balsamic vinegar can complement the flavors of fresh tomatoes and tuna.
Instructions: baking dish
Preheat the oven to 425°F
Wash and core the tomatoes. Use a spoon to scoop out the insides of the tomatoes. Chop the flesh of the hollowed tomatoes into small pieces. The tomatoes must be hollowed out before being stuffed with salad.
Let tomatoes and onions sit on a paper towel to absorb extra moisture.
Mix the drained tuna in oil, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings in a medium or large bowl. Hmm, it looks like Tuna salad.
Scoop the tuna mixture into the tomatoes and place in an oven-safe dish or baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil, top with shredded cheese, and roast for 15 minutes. I recommend mozzarella cheese, but you can use substitutes like provolone cheese.
The photo below shows the perfect golden brown color of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Please tell us what you think of this recipe! Please comment below.
Meal Prep and Storage
Tuna-stuffed tomatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days after preparation. To store, place the stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate.
When ready to serve, remove the stuffed tomatoes from the refrigerator and enjoy them chilled. Alternatively, you can store the tuna salad mixture separately and assemble the stuffed tomatoes before serving.
This way, you can ensure the whole baked tuna-stuffed tomatoes stay fresh and firm while the tuna salad retains its flavor and texture.
Options to Make Stuffed Tomatoes with Tuna
The charm of the recipe:
Its appeal is in its simplicity. Let me know if you’d like to make a simple tuna salad.
Cut up tomatoes.
There are two distinct methods of cutting tomatoes; your decision will be largely influenced by the shape of the tomatoes and how you want to present them.
One method is to cut down the top (stem ends) and separate its interior to form cavities.
Draining tomatoes upside down is easy. This one’s more decorative. Cut the tomato into star shapes.
Put the stems in rounded positions to give you optimum strength.
If you create stars, make sure the inside is completely intact.
Discard all liquids:
Place the tuna in a small glass bowl. Separate it with forks.
Make the tuna salad. Add the mayo, a little salt, garlic, and kosher salt to the tuna.
Bring it up and mix it well. Taste and adjust seasoning as required.
Prep tomato cores. Use small scissors.
Use a spoon to scoop off the flesh and seeds of large tomatoes, leaving a little skin around them.
The season of the tomatoes makes a big difference in taste.
Sprinkle some salt over the tomatoes, and they’re ready.
My first cooking:
- I followed recipes strictly and thought they were good. In the past, my cooking style was more or less an instruction in the writing and the intention.
- Here are some new ways to use the recipe: If you want something different, try our Greek Stuffed Tomato recipe, filled with ground beef and rice instead of tuna.
- Or, if you enjoy canned tuna, try my tuna pizza with onion and a little ketchup.
- D) Disposable cooking mode. Use forks to break down the tuna.
- Then add the sour mayo and relish, shredded celeriac, salt, and pepper. Mix.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as required. Cut tomatoes with a small knife. Remove the tomato flesh and seeds using a small spoon, leaving behind some thin skin.
- Put kosher salt in the tomatoes. Use the spoon to squeeze the tuna salad from the stuffed tomato shells. Press the tomatoes lightly. On request, add parsley. Serve.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed tomatoes with Tuna are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:
- Serve as a main course with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Pair as a side dish alongside grilled meats or vegetables to complement your favorite barbecue dishes.
- Offer them as a snack or appetizer at a party or gathering, and they’ll surely be a hit with guests.
- Enjoy a green salad or a handful of crackers for a light and healthy lunch that’s refreshing and filling.
Unfortunately, in some places, many restaurants in Spain have three-course lunches each day. Stuffed tomatoes are a typical choice for the first course. You can follow those restaurants if you plan on preparing a menu that includes many courses, and they make for great meal starters.
The meal is complete by serving fried rice and salad with an incredibly colorful savory dish or Spanish rice with beans and lemon Parmesan salad. Rice absorbs tinned fruit juice, and a salad adds a delicious crunch.
Substitutions, Variations, and Tips
Here are some variations of healthy recipes and tips to help you customize your tuna-stuffed tomatoes recipe:
- Use heirloom tomatoes for a pop of color and added flavor, making your dish as visually appealing as it is tasty.
- Fresh tuna is a suitable alternative to canned tuna and can be grilled or baked.
- Tuna can be substituted with cooked chicken, canned salmon, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Add chopped fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and nutrition, giving your tuna salad a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Mix in some diced green olives or capers for a salty and tangy flavor that adds a delightful twist to the classic tuna salad.
- Drizzle with lemon juice or olive oil to add moisture and flavor to the tuna salad mixture, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Experiment with different seasonings and spices, such as onion powder or celery salt, to flavor and make the tuna salad mixture uniquely yours.
- Relish can be replaced with finely chopped pickles or lemon juice for a tangy flavor.
- Mayonnaise can be substituted with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.
This recipe offers several different options for creating a swap that you like. It should be regarded as a recipe that we can use again.
Preparation: 10 min Total:
Stuffed tomatoes with tuna are a perfect low-carb meal choice. They’re easy to prepare and fill. Remove the tops from the tomatoes.
While making this tuna salad, remove a piece of the pulp and put the tomatoes in a paper towel. Whisk mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and onion paste. Taste and add salt and pepper to taste, keeping the initial dose small.
By following these tips and variations, you can create a quick tuna-stuffed tomato recipe that’s perfectly tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your favorite combinations!
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210–240 kcal
- Protein: 17–20 g
(High from tuna and mozzarella) - Fat: 14–18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4–5 g (Mozzarella and mayonnaise)
- Unsaturated Fat: 9–13 g (Olive oil and tuna)
- Carbohydrates: 5–7 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1–2 g (Tomatoes and onion)
- Sugars: 3–4 g (Primarily from tomatoes)
- Sodium: 350–450 mg
(From kosher salt, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard) - Potassium: 500–600 mg
(Rich due to tomatoes) - Vitamin A: 15–20% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 15–25% of the DV
- Calcium: 10–12% of the DV
(From mozzarella) - Iron: 6–8% of the DV
(From tuna)
Ingredient Breakdown
- Tomatoes: Medium vine-ripened tomatoes (~30 kcal each) add natural sweetness and moisture. They are high in Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
- Tuna: Premium white tuna (in water) is protein-rich with minimal fat (~90–100 kcal per pouch).
- Mozzarella: 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella adds around 160 kcal, primarily from protein and fat.
- Mayonnaise: Depending on the type used, 1/4 cup adds ~200 kcal from fat. Reduced fat mayo could lower this significantly.
- Dijon Mustard: Minimal impact on calories but adds a tangy flavor.
- Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Green Onion: Minimal caloric contribution but enhances flavor and provides small amounts of vitamins.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle (~1 tsp per serving) contributes around 40 kcal of healthy fats.
Optional Additions (Impact per Serving)
- Celery Seed: Negligible calories; enhances flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Adds ~30 kcal and 2 g of fat per tablespoon.
- Lemon Juice: Negligible calories; boosts Vitamin C.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor with 5–10 kcal per serving.
This recipe offers a flavorful, nutrient-dense option with balanced protein, healthy fats, and natural ingredients. Let me know if you need further adjustments or suggestions!
Does this recipe qualify as Keto Stuffed Tomatoes with Tuna?
Yes, this recipe can qualify as Keto Stuffed Tomatoes with Tuna with a few considerations and potential adjustments. The ketogenic diet emphasizes low-carbohydrate, high-fat, and moderate-protein meals. Here’s how the recipe aligns with keto principles and what adjustments might be needed:
Keto-Compliance of the Ingredients
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are generally keto-friendly, but they contain natural sugars. A medium-sized tomato has about 4–5 grams of net carbs. Using smaller tomatoes or limiting the quantity per serving ensures the dish stays within keto carb limits.
Tuna
Tuna is low in carbs and protein, making it an excellent choice for a keto diet.
Mozzarella
Mozzarella is low-carb and rich in fat and protein, making it ideal for keto.
Mayonnaise
Full-fat mayonnaise is a great source of healthy fats with no carbs. Avoid low-fat or flavored varieties that may contain added sugars.
Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard typically has negligible carbs. Check the label for added sugars, as some brands may have small amounts.
Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Green Onion
These add flavor with minimal carbs.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a healthy fat that aligns perfectly with keto requirements.
Optional Adjustments to Make it Fully Keto
Control Tomato Size
Opt for smaller tomatoes (e.g., Roma or cherry tomatoes) to reduce net carb content.
Add More Fats
Add cream cheese or olive oil to boost fat content and make the dish more keto-compliant.
Avoid Breadcrumbs (If Used)
Ensure no breadcrumbs or high-carb fillers are added.
Include Lemon Juice Carefully
Use sparingly as lemon juice has minimal carbs but can add up in larger quantities.
Final Keto Nutritional Estimate (Per Serving)
Assuming the recipe is divided into four servings with adjusted tomato size and keto-friendly ingredients:
- Calories: 220–250 kcal
- Protein: 18–20 g
- Fat: 16–20 g
- Net Carbs: 3–5 g
Please tell us what you think of this recipe! Please comment below.
Stuffed Tomatoes with Tuna: The Ultimate Comfort Food
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Those look amazing!! Maybe I can finally get my husband to enjoy stuffed tomatoes! 🙂 Thank you for sharing with us at the #HomeMattersParty
These look delish! Printing out the recipe to try this week!
I love tuna- this is such a unique way to use it! Looks delicious!
What a perfect low carb take on a classic! Thanks for sharing at Merry Monday!
These look yummy! Going to buy everything I need when I go to the store on Monday so I can make these. They not only be easy but healthy as well. Great for a quick and easy dinner. Thanks for sharing!
Wow – I love tuna melts, and I love Tuna salad stuffed tomatoes – what a great mash up!
Tuna melts are one of my favorite comfort foods too…in fact, there was at least one round of finals in college that I probably would have failed if it hadn’t been for tuna melts! I love the idea of using tomatoes instead of bread – how creative!
This is a great idea! Thanks for linking up with What’s Cookin’ Wednesday!
Those sound great! Thanks for sharing on Welcome Home Wednesdays, we hope to see you again this week.
Nothing like garden fresh tomatoes! Thanks for sharing with Delicious Dishes Recipe Party this week. Hope to see you again tomorrow for another party!
What size is the pouch of tuna?
If I wanted to used canned tuna I already have, how much tuna would that be? Just don’t want to buy something that I already have on hand. Thanks! I can’t wait to make these for lunch soon!
This is a delicious idea. My son loves tuna melts, so this would be a nice twist for dinner one night.
Thanks for sharing on #TastyTuesdays
Those look delicious. Great recipe for Lent!
Thanks for sharing at Funtastic Friday!
These look so yummy! I’m going to put them into my summer meal rotation! Thanks for sharing! #HomeMattersParty
Jeannee
What a simple, yet yummy recipe! Congrats! You’re a feature tomorrow at Welcome Home Wednesdays! See you at the party tomorrow!
Thanks for sharing. I’ve made this a few times and really good. I did add a few more things that I had on hand. I added finely chopped celery, red onion, red pepper and used yogurt and a bit more Dijon mustard and served the tomatoes over leftover rice. A keeper!
It would be nice if we had the option of printing the recipe.
Sounds good.
Hi Mary – we did have the option to print recipes but the app stopped working 🙁