No Cook Cherry Tomatoes Stuffed With Spicy Feta Recipe

As I dive into this recipe, let me just say that these spicy feta-stuffed cherry tomatoes are the perfect little bites of happiness that I never knew I needed in my life. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that’s as refreshing as it is addictive!

This no-cook cherry tomatoes stuffed with spicy feta dish is such a refreshing and flavorful snack. Perfect for a healthy diet, they take nearly zero time to prepare and require neither any actual cooking nor actual heat (although my hand was almost on fire for a while after I mixed in the red pepper flakes).

While the crumbled feta, Greek yogurt (or any creamy cheese would suffice), and olive oil make a truly healthy and decadent filling, the garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes give it flavor, color, and (healthy) heat.

Ingredients

• Cherry Tomatoes: Low calorie, rich in vitamins A and C, adds sweetness and juiciness.
• Feta Cheese: Provides protein and calcium, adds a tangy, creamy texture.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhances flavor with a rich, smooth finish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds heat and spice, contains metabolism-boosting capsaicin.
• Lemon Juice: Provides brightness and acidity, rich in vitamin C.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make this

1. Rinse the cherry tomatoes very well in cold water, making sure to covet every inch of each tomato. When you are done rinsing, and I shouldn’t have to say this, it is very important that you pat them dry using a clean towel.

2. Using a sharp knife, slice off the top of each cherry tomato and carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp with a small spoon or a melon baller. Set aside the hollowed tomatoes.

3. Feta cheese that has been crumbled, Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and red pepper flakes should be blended in a medium-sized mixing bowl.

4. Combine the ingredients thoroughly with a fork or a whisk until the mixture becomes homogeneous and creamy.

5. Sample the feta concoction and add salt and pepper to make it taste good.

6. With a small spoon, carefully fill each hollowed-out cherry tomato with the feta mixture. Take care not to overfill.

7. Set the stuffed tomatoes on a serving platter.

8. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley uniformly over the stuffed tomatoes as a garnish.

9. The stuffed tomatoes taste their best when they have been in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes and are served very cold. This is a delightful, light appetizer that seems to please everyone.

10. No-cook cherry tomatoes stuffed with spicy feta make an excellent snack or appetizer to serve and enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Colander or strainer
2. Clean kitchen towel
3. Sharp knife
4. Small spoon or melon baller
5. Medium-sized mixing bowl
6. Fork or whisk
7. Serving platter
8. Refrigerator

FAQ

• Q: Can I prepare the stuffed cherry tomatoes in advance?
  A: Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. However, they are best served fresh for ideal flavor and texture.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
  A: Yes, goat cheese can be a lovely alternative to feta, offering a creamier texture.
• Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
  A: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Q: Are there vegan alternatives for this recipe?
  A: You can try using a plant-based feta and a non-dairy yogurt to make a vegan version.
• Q: How should I serve the stuffed cherry tomatoes?
  A: They make an excellent appetizer and can be served on a platter garnished with extra parsley or alongside other finger foods.
• Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?
  A: Yes, you can substitute with dried parsley, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
• Q: What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
  A: Sour cream or even cream cheese can work as a substitute, although the flavor will vary slightly.

No Cook Cherry Tomatoes Stuffed With Spicy Feta Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Feta cheese: Swap out for goat cheese or ricotta cheese, if you’d like a softer flavor.
Sour cream or crème fraîche can serve as an alternative to Greek yogurt.
Avocado oil: Try using different oils. Walnut oil has a lovely flavor.
Lemon zest: I use a microplane grater to remove the zest from the lemon. Because I’m using the juice, I need to cut the zest off before slicing the lemon in half and juicing it.
Substitute red pepper flakes with a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot paprika.

Pro Tips

1. For an extra burst of flavor, consider roasting the hollowed-out cherry tomatoes in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt for about 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C) before stuffing them. This will add depth and sweetness to the tomatoes.

2. To ensure a smooth and creamy filling, let your feta cheese come to room temperature before mixing it with the yogurt and other ingredients. This will help it blend more evenly and achieve a consistent texture.

3. Experiment with additional herbs such as fresh dill or basil in the filling for a unique twist. Chopped basil will add a fresh, aromatic element, while dill can introduce a slightly tangy flavor.

4. If you want to add some crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top of the stuffed tomatoes just before serving. This adds texture and a nutty contrast to the creamy filling.

5. Ensure the tomatoes are well-chilled before serving. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to an hour prior to serving to really enhance the refreshing and crisp experience of this appetizer.