Stuffed Onions in Tomato Sauce
Introduction
Welcome to this delicious recipe for stuffed onions in tomato sauce. This dish combines the sweetness of onions with a savory filling and a rich tomato sauce. It’s a perfect option for a hearty and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the stuffed onions:
– 6 large onions
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the tomato sauce:
– 2 cans crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the onions and peel them. Carefully remove the inner layers of the onions, leaving about 2 layers intact to form a shell.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, walnuts, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a stuffing mixture.
4. Stuff each onion shell with the filling mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s tightly packed.
5. Place the stuffed onions in a baking dish and set aside.
6. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
7. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
8. Bring the tomato sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. Pour the tomato sauce over the stuffed onions in the baking dish, ensuring that all the onions are covered with sauce.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
11. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the sauce is bubbling.
12. Remove from the oven and let the stuffed onions cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations
1. Vegetarian option: Replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
2. Meat lovers twist: Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the filling mixture for an extra protein boost.
Tips
– Choose large onions that are firm and have a round shape, as they are easier to stuff.
– Save the onion scraps to use in other recipes like soups or stocks.
– Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the tomato sauce according to your taste preferences.
– Serve the stuffed onions hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
Stuffed onions in tomato sauce are a delightful and flavorful dish that will satisfy your taste buds. The combination of sweet onions, savory filling, and rich tomato sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you’re serving this as a main course or as a side dish, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy!
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed onions and tomato sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and pour it over the stuffed onions before baking.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the stuffed onions to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
3. What can I serve with stuffed onions in tomato sauce?
Stuffed onions pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.