Healthy Taco Stuffed Tomatoes

Here’s a healthy and delicious recipe for Taco Stuffed Tomatoes:

Ingredients:

• 6 large tomatoes
• 1 pound ground turkey or lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and salt to taste)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (optional, for added fiber)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a Mexican cheese blend
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 avocado, diced (for topping)
• Lime wedges (for serving)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides with a spoon, leaving a sturdy shell. Reserve the insides for another use (like salsa or soup).
   • Lightly sprinkle the inside of the tomatoes with salt and place them upside down on a paper towel to drain excess moisture.
2. Cook the Filling:
   • In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the ground turkey or beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through.
   • Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
   • Add the black beans, corn, and cooked quinoa or brown rice (if using), and stir to combine. Cook until everything is heated through.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.
3. Stuff the Tomatoes:
   • Place the hollowed-out tomatoes in a baking dish.
   • Spoon the taco filling into each tomato, pressing down gently to fill them completely.
   • Sprinkle the tops with shredded cheese.
4. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
   • Top with diced avocado and additional cilantro, if desired.
   • Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your healthy Taco Stuffed Tomatoes as a nutritious and flavorful meal!