Miniketo
ES

Keto Appetizers

Cherry Tomatoes Filled with Goat Cheese

These little bites bring back memories of summer gatherings, where they always disappeared first from the appetizer table. I love how the creamy goat cheese plays against the sweet tang of cherry tomatoes, especially when fresh basil brightens each mouthful. They’re effortless to make yet look elegant on any platter.

15 min Prep time 0 min Cook time 15 min Total time 4 Servings 120 Calories
Cherry Tomatoes Filled with Goat Cheese

Ingredients

  • /4 pound goat cheese
  • /4 cup minced fresh basil
  • /2 teaspoon salt
  • /2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • cherry tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    In a medium mixing bowl, I blend the goat cheese with minced basil, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly combined. Letting the cheese soften slightly beforehand makes this step effortless. Then, I take each cherry tomato and slice off the very top—just enough to create a small opening. Using a tiny spoon or even the back of a melon baller, I carefully hollow out the insides, leaving a sturdy shell behind. It's important to drain any juice from the tomatoes so the filling doesn't become soggy

  2. Step 2

    I usually tip them upside down on a paper towel for a couple of minutes. Once they’re ready, I fill each tomato with about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture, pressing it in gently so it holds its shape. I repeat until all the tomatoes are filled or the cheese mixture is used up. Finally, I arrange them on a platter, and sometimes I garnish with small basil leaves for a pretty presentation. This dish is wonderfully uncomplicated and always gets compliments.

Chef's Tip

I always let the goat cheese soften at room temperature for 10 minutes before mixing—it blends much smoother with the basil and seasoning. A tiny pinch of lemon zest can also lift the flavors without adding carbs.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary—just give them a gentle stir if any juices have settled.

Variation Tips

For a flavor twist, try mixing in a pinch of garlic powder or a few chopped olives into the goat cheese. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can use halved mini bell peppers for a colorful, equally low-carb alternative that holds the filling well.

Frequently Asked Questions