Imagine a dish that perfectly marries the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes with the rich, creamy goodness of baked eggs—welcome to "Cooking an Egg in a Tomato"! This delightful Italian-inspired recipe is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the ideal choice for a quick breakfast or a light brunch that will impress your guests. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can elevate your culinary game and enjoy a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Ready to dive into this deliciously simple recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Carefully wash the tomatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife, slice off the top of each tomato and gently scoop out the inner seeds and pulp, creating a hollow cavity while keeping the tomato shell intact.
- Lightly season the inside of the tomato shells with salt and pepper, ensuring even distribution.
- Place the prepared tomato shells in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet, positioning them upright to prevent tipping.
- Gently crack one egg into each tomato shell, taking care not to break the yolk.
- Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the eggs and around the tomatoes to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the baking dish in the center rack.
- Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks reach your desired consistency.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the eggs to finish cooking.
- Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves and an additional drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve immediately while hot, ideally with crusty bread or as a light breakfast or brunch dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Opt for large, firm tomatoes that can hold their shape during baking. Heirloom or beefsteak varieties work wonderfully for this recipe.
- Egg Freshness Matters: Use the freshest eggs possible for the best flavor and texture. Fresh eggs will have firmer whites and richer yolks.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices! Adding a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give your dish an extra kick.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the eggs as they bake. If you prefer runny yolks, check them at the 10-minute mark. For firmer yolks, let them bake a bit longer.
- Serve with Style: Pair your baked tomatoes with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a lovely touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 185mg
