Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Juicy cherry tomatoes filled with a creamy, herbed cheese mixture make these bite-sized appetizers perfect for gatherings, snacks, or light meals. They’re quick to prepare, low in carbs, high in fiber, and packed with flavor, making them a healthy and elegant addition to any table.
Equipment
- Measuring Spoons
- Stand Mixer
- Small spoon
- Piping bag
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons butter at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 48 cherry tomatoes
Instructions
- Prepare the Creamy Filling: Begin by placing 8 ounces of cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Ensure both ingredients are at room temperature, as this allows them to blend smoothly without lumps. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until it becomes silky, light, and completely smooth. This will form the base of your flavorful stuffing.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Garlic: Once the cream cheese and butter are fully combined, add 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped dill and 1 finely minced garlic clove. Gently fold the herbs and garlic into the creamy mixture using a spatula, ensuring even distribution without overmixing. This step infuses the filling with vibrant, aromatic flavors that complement the natural sweetness of the cherry tomatoes.
- Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes: Select 48 firm, ripe cherry tomatoes for this recipe. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Slice off the top quarter of each tomato with a sharp paring knife, creating a small “lid.” Be careful not to cut too deep to maintain the tomato’s shape and prevent leakage.
- Hollow Out the Tomatoes: Using a small spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp from each tomato, creating a small cavity for the filling. Set aside the tops to use as decorative lids if desired. Gently press the bottoms of the tomatoes down slightly to create a flat base, ensuring they remain upright when plated. Removing excess moisture is crucial to avoid a watery filling.
- Fill the Piping Bag: Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a piping bag fitted with a medium round tip. If you don’t have a piping bag, a resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off works just as well. This step allows for precise, neat filling that looks professional and reduces mess.
- Pipe the Filling into Tomatoes: Holding each tomato steady with one hand, pipe the cream cheese mixture into the hollowed cavity. Fill gently but generously until the mixture reaches just below the rim. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the filling to spill out. Continue this process with all remaining tomatoes until each one is perfectly stuffed.
- Garnish and Finish (Optional): For an added touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle a tiny amount of chopped dill or your preferred fresh herb on top of each stuffed tomato. You can also place the reserved tomato tops back onto each filled tomato for an elegant presentation.
- Chill Before Serving: Place the stuffed cherry tomatoes on a serving platter and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up. For best taste, serve at room temperature, giving the cream cheese mixture a chance to soften slightly before enjoying.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the stuffed cherry tomatoes on a beautiful platter, and serve as an appetizer, snack, or party bite. They pair wonderfully with fresh greens, light vinaigrettes, or alongside charcuterie boards. These bite-sized delights are not only visually appealing but also flavorful, creamy, and satisfying.
Notes
- Choose firm, evenly sized cherry tomatoes to ensure consistent cooking and easier filling. Larger tomatoes are preferable for a neater presentation.
- Always bring cream cheese and butter to room temperature before mixing to achieve a silky, lump-free filling.
- To prevent watery filling, scoop out seeds and excess juice thoroughly. Gently pressing the tomato base helps them stay upright on serving plates.
- Feel free to customize herbs according to taste—basil, chives, or parsley work beautifully in place of dill.
- These tomatoes are best served the same day for optimal texture, but they can be prepped a few hours in advance and refrigerated until needed.
