📝 About This Recipe
These vibrant, bite-sized jewels offer a sophisticated explosion of flavor, combining the natural sweetness of vine-ripened tomatoes with a velvety, herb-infused goat cheese filling. Inspired by the sun-drenched coastal snacks of the Mediterranean, this dish is elevated by a crunchy, golden panko topping that provides the perfect textural contrast. They are the ultimate elegant appetizer for garden parties or a light, refreshing snack that celebrates the simplicity of fresh produce.
🥗 Ingredients
The Tomatoes
- 24 pieces Cherry Tomatoes (large, firm, and uniform in size)
- 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (for weeping the tomatoes)
Creamy Herb Filling
- 4 ounces Goat Cheese (softened at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons Cream Cheese (for a smoother consistency)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Chives (finely minced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (from about half a lemon)
- 1 clove Garlic (grated into a paste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
Crunchy Topping & Garnish
- 1/4 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (toasted until golden)
- 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high quality for finishing)
- 6-8 pieces Fresh Basil Leaves (cut into thin ribbons (chiffonade))
- 1 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze (for drizzling)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Wash the cherry tomatoes and pat them completely dry with a paper towel. A dry surface makes them easier to handle.
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2
Carefully slice off the top 1/4-inch of each tomato (the stem end). If the tomatoes are wobbly, slice a tiny sliver off the bottom to create a flat base so they stand upright.
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3
Using a small espresso spoon or a 1/4 teaspoon measuring spoon, gently scoop out the seeds and pulp from each tomato, being careful not to pierce the walls.
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4
Place the hollowed-out tomatoes upside down on a paper towel-lined tray and let them drain for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
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5
While the tomatoes drain, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
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6
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, minced chives, parsley, lemon zest, grated garlic, and black pepper.
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7
Use a sturdy spatula or fork to whip the cheese mixture until it is light, fluffy, and all herbs are evenly distributed.
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8
Transfer the cheese mixture into a piping bag fitted with a medium-sized plain round tip. If you don't have a piping bag, a plastic sandwich bag with a corner snipped off works perfectly.
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9
Turn the tomatoes right-side up. Lightly dust the inside of each tomato with a tiny pinch of sea salt.
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10
Carefully pipe the cheese filling into each tomato, filling it until it creates a small, rounded mound just above the rim of the tomato.
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11
Dip the cheese-topped end of each tomato into the toasted panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere to the cheese.
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12
Arrange the stuffed tomatoes on a serving platter. Garnish with the fresh basil chiffonade.
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13
Just before serving, drizzle the entire platter with a light touch of balsamic glaze for a sweet and acidic finish.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use room temperature cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling that pipes easily. If you find goat cheese too tangy, substitute with a mix of ricotta and feta for a milder profile. Don't skip the draining step; tomatoes carry a lot of water which can make your filling runny if not removed. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drop of hot honey to the cheese mixture. These are best served within 2 hours of assembly to keep the panko topping perfectly crunchy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Rosé to complement the acidity of the tomatoes. Serve alongside a platter of cured meats and olives for a complete Mediterranean antipasto spread. Arrange on a bed of wild arugula tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a beautiful presentation. These make a fantastic side dish for grilled lamb chops or herb-roasted chicken. Offer them as a refreshing palate cleanser between heavier courses at a dinner party.