Plump, juicy tomatoes roasted to perfection and generously filled with fluffy quinoa, spinach, toasted pine nuts, and creamy feta—finished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil for a vibrant, satisfying vegetarian dish. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe brings together wholesome ingredients for a nutritious and flavor-packed meal, perfect for a light lunch or a colorful dinner entrée.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, combining the sweet acidity of roasted tomatoes with the nutty crunch of pine nuts, the creamy tang of feta, and the fresh notes of basil. It is vegetarian, protein-rich thanks to quinoa, and adaptable for various dietary preferences. It’s not only satisfying and delicious but also elegant enough to serve at gatherings or dinner parties.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 large ripe tomatoes
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups spinach, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Extra feta and basil leaves for garnish

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides using a spoon. Lightly salt the interiors and place the tomatoes upside down to drain excess moisture.
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about one minute, then add the chopped spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
Combine the spinach mixture with the cooked quinoa. Stir in the crumbled feta, toasted pine nuts, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pat the tomatoes dry and fill each one generously with the quinoa mixture.
Place the stuffed tomatoes upright in a baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the tops begin to brown slightly.
Garnish with additional crumbled feta and fresh basil leaves before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 stuffed tomatoes (serves approximately 3–4 people as a main dish or 6 as a side)
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based feta alternative.
Add Protein: Include cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
Herb Substitutions: Use parsley or mint in place of basil for a different herbal note.
Grain Swap: Substitute quinoa with couscous, bulgur, or farro for a different texture and flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture for a gentle heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed tomatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated. Avoid freezing as the tomatoes may become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too watery?

Lightly salting the insides and allowing them to drain upside down helps remove excess moisture before baking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the tomatoes in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

Is quinoa necessary or can I use another grain?

While quinoa adds protein and texture, you can substitute it with couscous, rice, or bulgur.

Can I freeze stuffed tomatoes?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the tomatoes will degrade upon thawing.

What type of tomatoes work best for this recipe?

Use large, firm tomatoes such as beefsteak or vine-ripened varieties that can hold their shape during baking.

How do I toast pine nuts?

Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use quinoa and no gluten-containing substitutions, it remains naturally gluten-free.

What should I serve with these stuffed tomatoes?

They pair well with a green salad, grilled vegetables, or a light soup.

Can I serve this dish cold?

Yes, it can be enjoyed cold as a refreshing summer dish, though it is traditionally served warm.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper to the quinoa mixture before stuffing.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes offer a delightful balance of health, flavor, and presentation. Whether served as a light main course or a hearty side, they make a versatile and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests, this recipe brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table.