France Tomates à la Provençale (Provencal Tomatoes)
Tomates à la Provençale, or Provencal tomatoes, is a classic dish from the Provence region of France, celebrated for its simplicity and bold flavors. Fresh, ripe tomatoes are stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and olive oil, then baked until golden. This dish exemplifies the Mediterranean approach to cooking, where high-quality ingredients shine with minimal intervention. Often served as a side dish or appetizer, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish.
Recipe Servings: 4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal
Ingredients
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- ½ cup (30 g) fresh breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp (8 g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp (0.8 g) fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp (0.5 g) dried thyme)
- 2 Tbsp (30 ml) olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp (15 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the tomatoes and slice off the stem end to remove the top. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp, leaving the flesh intact. Lightly salt the interiors and place them cut side down on a paper towel to drain while you prepare the filling.
- In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, and olive oil. Add additional salt to taste, as well as black pepper. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it into the mixture at this stage.
- Arrange the tomato halves, cut side up, in a baking dish. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously into each tomato half, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres. Drizzle the tops with a little more olive oil.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender but still hold their shape and the breadcrumb topping is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the tomatoes cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course.
Notes
- For extra flavor, include finely chopped anchovies or olives in the breadcrumb mixture.
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