I still fondly remember my Mom making these incredible Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes when I was growing up. They were a staple in our kitchen, especially during the warmer months, and their appeal has only grown over the years. What makes them so special is not just their delightful flavor and refreshing texture, but also their remarkable simplicity. This recipe is super easy to prepare, requires absolutely no cooking, and comes together incredibly quickly, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights or a light, satisfying lunch.

Living in a household where healthy eating was the norm, thanks to my Mom’s dedication to the Weight Watchers program, I learned early on that nutritious food could be utterly delicious and satisfying. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to wholesome, flavorful meals that nourish your body without compromising on taste. These Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes embody that philosophy perfectly, clocking in at a mere 2 Weight Watchers points per serving. They are an ideal choice any time of the year, but truly shine when fresh, ripe tomatoes are in peak season, bursting with natural sweetness and juiciness. Whether you need a lightning-fast lunch at home or work, or a light and healthy dinner option, these stuffed tomatoes are sure to become a cherished favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes

Creating these delightful tuna stuffed tomatoes requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its fresh flavors and minimal preparation, making it an accessible and enjoyable recipe for everyone.

• Fresh Tomatoes: The star of our dish! While I often use common Hothouse tomatoes due to their consistent availability and size, any fresh, ripe, and firm tomato will work beautifully. Look for round varieties like beefsteak or sandwich tomatoes, as their shape makes them much easier to hollow out and stuff compared to oblong varieties like Roma. Opt for vibrant red, firm tomatoes that offer a good base for your filling.
• Canned Tuna: For this recipe, I highly recommend using flaked light tuna packed in water. The flaked texture blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, creating a smooth and cohesive filling. Tuna packed in water is also a lower-calorie option compared to oil-packed varieties, aligning perfectly with the healthy and Weight Watchers friendly goals of this recipe. Be sure to drain it very well to avoid a watery filling.
• Mayonnaise: To bind the tuna mixture and add a creamy richness, mayonnaise is essential. I personally prefer Hellmann’s ½ the Fat mayonnaise, as it significantly reduces the fat content and Weight Watchers points without sacrificing that classic creamy taste we all love. If you have other low-fat or light mayonnaise brands you enjoy, they will work just as well.
• Chopped Celery: Adds a wonderful, refreshing crunch and a subtle earthy flavor that complements the tuna perfectly.
• Dill Pickles: Chopped dill pickles bring a delightful tangy, briny note to the filling, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise and adding another layer of texture.
• Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a touch of color, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.

*Please refer to the detailed recipe card below for the exact quantities and a complete list of ingredients.

Variations & Substitutions for Every Taste

One of the best things about this tuna stuffed tomato recipe is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your dietary needs or flavor preferences with these easy variations and substitutions:

• Dairy-Free Option: If you’re avoiding dairy, simply swap out regular mayonnaise for a high-quality dairy-free or plant-based mayonnaise alternative. There are many excellent options available today that provide the same creamy texture.
• Alternative Proteins: Not a fan of tuna, or simply looking to change things up? You can easily substitute canned salmon for tuna, which offers a similar texture and nutritional profile. For a vegetarian option, consider using mashed chickpeas or white beans mixed with a touch of olive oil and herbs to create a protein-rich filling. Flavored tuna pouches (lemon & herb, spicy, etc.) can also add an interesting twist.
• Add a Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, introduce some spice! A dash of your favorite hot sauce or sriracha mixed into the tuna filling can elevate the flavor. For a more pronounced kick and texture, fold in some finely diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.
• Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and texture by incorporating more finely chopped vegetables. Shredded carrots, diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange for color), finely chopped cucumber, or even a small amount of corn kernels can add delicious crunch and freshness.
• Herbaceous Freshness: Fresh herbs can significantly brighten the flavor profile. Try adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, dill, chives, or a combination of your favorites to the tuna mixture.
• Tangy Twists: Beyond dill pickles, you could experiment with capers for a briny pop, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added zing.

How to Make Stuffed Tomatoes with Tuna: A Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for even the most novice cooks. Follow these simple steps to create a refreshing and satisfying meal:

Begin by carefully cutting the top off each fresh tomato. Use a small, sharp paring knife and make a circular cut, similar to how you would hull a strawberry. This creates an opening for hollowing out the tomato and a natural lid, if you choose to use it for presentation.

Once the tops are cut, you can discard them or finely chop them to add to the tuna mixture if you wish to minimize waste. However, for a cleaner presentation, it’s generally best to discard them.

Next, use a spoon to gently scoop out the insides (pulp and seeds) from each tomato, leaving approximately a ¼-inch thick shell. Be careful not to break through the tomato wall. Place the scooped-out tomato pulp into a small bowl and set it aside; this will be incorporated into our delicious tuna filling.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thoroughly drained canned tuna, mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, chopped green onions, and the chopped dill pickles. Now, add the reserved tomato pulp to this mixture. This adds an extra layer of fresh tomato flavor and helps bind the ingredients. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.

Evenly spoon the prepared tuna mixture back into the hollowed-out tomato shells. Make sure each tomato is generously filled, but not overflowing. Once all tomatoes are stuffed, you can garnish them with a sprinkle of extra chopped green onions for a fresh, appealing finish. For optimal flavor and texture, I recommend chilling the stuffed tomatoes for at least 20-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to firm up slightly.

Expert Tips for Perfect Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes

• Choose the Right Tomatoes for Success: The foundation of this dish is the tomato, so selection is key. Opt for firm, ripe tomatoes that are substantial enough to hold the filling without collapsing. Avoid overripe tomatoes, which tend to be too soft and watery, making them difficult to hollow and prone to falling apart. Round varieties like beefsteak, hothouse, or even larger heirloom tomatoes with a sturdy structure are ideal as they offer ample space for the delicious tuna mixture.
• Preventing Soggy Tomatoes is Crucial: To ensure your stuffed tomatoes remain delightful and not waterlogged, proper preparation of the tomato shell is essential. When scooping out the pulp, aim to leave a robust shell of about ¼ inch thickness. After hollowing, gently pat the inside of each tomato dry with a paper towel. This removes excess moisture that could make the filling soggy. For the freshest experience, serve them promptly after preparation, or store them in the refrigerator for a brief period.
• Thoroughly Drain the Tuna: This tip cannot be overstated! Canned tuna, especially varieties packed in water, can hold a surprising amount of liquid. If not drained properly, this excess water will make your filling watery and can cause the tomato shells to become mushy faster. Use a fine-mesh sieve or press the tuna firmly in a colander to extract as much liquid as possible before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Packing Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes for Lunchboxes: These make an excellent portable lunch! For transport, select the firmest tomatoes possible to ensure they maintain their shape during transit. Pack the stuffed tomatoes in a compartmentalized container that keeps them upright and prevents them from rolling around and getting crushed. Always include a cold pack with your lunchbox to keep them fresh and safe, especially on warmer days.
• Chill Before Serving for Enhanced Flavor: While these stuffed tomatoes are tasty immediately after assembly, they truly shine when allowed to chill. Refrigerating them for at least 20-30 minutes before serving allows all the flavors in the tuna filling to meld beautifully. The tomatoes also become more refreshing and firm, offering a superior texture. For best results, plan this chilling time into your preparation.
• Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste the tuna mixture before stuffing the tomatoes! Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper as needed. A small pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can also deepen the flavor profile.

Serving Size & Flexibility

This easy recipe is designed to yield 6 satisfying servings. However, the beauty of this dish is its flexibility! Whether you’re cooking for a smaller gathering or feeding a crowd, you can effortlessly adjust the recipe to suit your needs. Most online recipe cards, including the one below, allow you to easily half, double, or even triple the recipe by simply clicking on the serving number. The ingredient quantities will automatically adjust, taking the guesswork out of scaling up or down.

Weight Watchers Friendly: Only 2 WW Points!

For those following the Weight Watchers program, this tuna stuffed tomatoes recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a fantastic example of how truly delicious and filling meals can be created while staying well within your daily points allowance. Each generous serving of these healthy stuffed tomatoes is an incredibly low 2 Weight Watchers points, making it an excellent choice for a guilt-free lunch, a light dinner, or a satisfying snack that will keep you on track with your health goals.

What to Serve with Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes

These tuna stuffed tomatoes are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes, especially if you’re aiming for a low-point meal:

• Cloud Bread: For a super low-point option, serve with our 0-point Cloud Bread. Its light, airy texture provides a perfect contrast and allows you to enjoy a bread-like accompaniment without guilt.
• Light Soups: A bowl of warm, comforting soup makes an excellent pairing. Consider a light vegetable broth-based soup, or try our Chicken Gumbo soup (2 WW points) or the hearty yet healthy Leftover Ham and Macaroni Soup (4 WW points).
• Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, a few more cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette would complement the freshness of the tomatoes beautifully.
• Fruit & Dairy: For a balanced and easy packed lunch, include some whole grain crackers, a slice of light cheese, fresh fruit, and a cup of our Chocolate Yogurt (2 WW points) for a sweet finish.
• Whole Grains: A small side of quinoa, brown rice, or a whole-wheat pita can add more substance to your meal if desired, while still keeping it healthy.

Storage & Meal Prep Considerations

These tuna stuffed tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly prepare them slightly ahead of time or store leftovers. Store any remaining stuffed tuna tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This ensures they retain their freshness and prevents the tomatoes from becoming too soft.

While they store well for a couple of days, I generally do not recommend making them more than a day in advance if you’re planning for an event, as the tomatoes can lose some of their firmness and the filling might become slightly watery over a longer period. Unfortunately, this recipe does not hold up well to freezing. The high water content of the tomatoes causes them to become mushy and unappetizing once thawed, so it’s best to enjoy these fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (Recipe FAQ’s)

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