Breaded Broiled Tomatoes

This is a bariatric friendly tomato side dish that is easy to make and very healthy.

1 (1-ounce) slice whole wheat bread
4 large tomatoes (2 1/2 pounds)
1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk
1/2 cup (2 ounces) grated fresh Romano or Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 large egg white, lightly beaten
Cooking spray
8 teaspoons chopped fresh basil (optional)

Preheat oven to 400°.

Place bread in a food processor, and process until finely ground to measure 1/2 cup. Set aside.

Core tomatoes; cut each tomato in half crosswise. Push seeds out of tomato halves with thumbs. Spoon 1 tablespoon buttermilk into each tomato half. Combine breadcrumbs, cheese, pepper, and egg white in a small bowl. Divide breadcrumb mixture evenly among tomato halves. Place tomato halves on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° for 17 minutes.

Prepare broiler.
Broil tomato halves 2 minutes or until lightly browned. Sprinkle each tomato half with 1 teaspoon basil. (You may substitute cilantro for basil if you prefer).

Serve warm.