These Pesto Cream Cheese Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes are a vibrant, bite-sized appetizer that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.
Packed with protein from cream cheese, fiber from fresh tomatoes, and heart-healthy fats from basil pesto, they make a satisfying, low-carb snack or party treat.
Quick and no-bake, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, entertaining, or meal prep.
Pesto Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 small piping bag or sandwich bag (tip snipped off)
- Star tip 1M (optional, for decorative piping)
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 4 –5 fresh basil leaves diced
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: Begin by removing the cream cheese from the refrigerator and allowing it to soften at room temperature for a few minutes. Place all 8 ounces of softened cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or a sturdy spatula, beat the cream cheese until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency with no lumps. This ensures a silky filling that will pipe easily into the tomatoes.
- Incorporate the Pesto Flavor: Measure 1/2 cup of fresh or store-bought basil pesto and add it to the bowl with the softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the pesto is completely blended and the mixture has a uniform green color with flecks of basil visible. Taste a small dab to adjust the flavor if desired, ensuring the mixture is savory, fragrant, and perfectly balanced.
- Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes: While the filling is being mixed, wash 1 pint of cherry tomatoes under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each tomato in half horizontally. Set the halved tomatoes aside on a plate or tray with the cut side facing up to make them ready for filling.
- Prepare the Piping Bag: Select a small piping bag or a sturdy sandwich bag for easy filling. If using a piping bag, attach a star tip (such as tip 1M) for decorative effect. Spoon the prepared cream cheese and pesto mixture into the bag, gently pressing it down so it fills the tip without air pockets. If using a sandwich bag, snip off one corner about 1/2 inch from the tip to create a makeshift piping nozzle.
- Pipe the Cream Cheese Filling: Hold a halved cherry tomato in one hand and pipe a generous dab of the cream cheese mixture into the hollowed side of the tomato. Press gently but steadily to fill each tomato half evenly, creating a small, slightly peaked swirl on top if using a star tip. Repeat this process for all the tomato halves, taking care to keep the filling neat and uniform for an appealing presentation.
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Take 4–5 fresh basil leaves and dice them finely. Sprinkle a small pinch of diced basil over the top of each filled cherry tomato, adding a bright green color and a burst of fresh aroma. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the appetizer an elegant, finished look.
- Optional Serving and Storage Tips: These stuffed tomatoes can be served immediately, or they can be chilled in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving. If preparing ahead, cover the tray with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Any leftover cream cheese mixture can be stored in an airtight container and used as a dip for crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted bread slices.
Notes
- Use fully softened cream cheese for smooth, easy-to-pipe filling.
- Choose ripe, firm cherry tomatoes to prevent sogginess.
- Fresh basil enhances flavor; adjust quantity based on preference.
- The recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.
- Extra filling can be used as a dip for crackers or vegetables.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and chilled before serving.
- Star piping tips create a decorative swirl, but plain piping works fine.
Chef’s Secrets: Mastering Perfect Filling
To achieve a flawless texture for the filling, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly with pesto, preventing lumps and allowing for easy piping.
For an extra flavor boost, lightly toast the basil before chopping—it adds a subtle, aromatic depth.
When piping, hold the bag at a slight angle to control the flow and create visually appealing swirls.
Finally, gently press each tomato half to remove excess moisture if needed, keeping the filling firm and the tomatoes from becoming watery.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Pairing Ideas
These pesto cream cheese stuffed cherry tomatoes shine as an elegant appetizer at any gathering.
Serve them on a platter with other finger foods like olives, crackers, and roasted nuts for a balanced spread.
They also pair beautifully with fresh mozzarella, arugula, or cucumber slices for a light snack or salad.
For a cocktail party, try serving them alongside a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon, highlighting their fresh, herbaceous flavors.
Storage Tips: Keep Fresh And Tasty
If not serving immediately, store the filled cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cover the tray with plastic wrap to prevent the tomatoes from drying out.
The leftover cream cheese and pesto mixture can also be stored in a sealed container for up to 3 days and enjoyed as a dip or spread.
Avoid freezing the stuffed tomatoes, as the texture of the cherry tomatoes may become mushy once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use flavored cream cheese instead?
Yes, plain or lightly flavored cream cheese works best. Strong flavors may overpower the pesto, but a subtle garlic or herb cream cheese can enhance the taste.
2. Can this recipe be made vegan?
You can use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and ensure the pesto is dairy-free to make this recipe vegan-friendly. The result will still be creamy and delicious.
3. How do I prevent the tomatoes from getting watery?
Select firm, ripe cherry tomatoes and pat them dry after washing. Removing seeds or excess juice before filling can also help keep the mixture stable and prevent sogginess.
4. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Fill the tomatoes just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
5. What can I serve leftover filling with?
Extra filling makes an excellent dip for crackers, breadsticks, vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices. It can also be spread on sandwiches or bagels for a flavorful snack.
