Tuna-Stuffed Tomatoes

The husband and I have been diverting from our normally healthy diet for the past few months. So much so, that the bad habits have taken over and we've both seen a gradual weight gain over time. A pound here...a couple pounds there... and before I knew it, I've gained 25 pounds. Yeesh. It was really almost unnoticeable to let unhealthful foods creep back into our routine because they seem to be quicker/easier to obtain and don't require as much planning. A meal here and a snack there really adds up over time; especially since I wasn't paying attention to how/what I was consuming!

Well, I've decided enough and it's time to get back on track again. I asked the husband if he'd be up for a "Clean Eating Challenge" this week and he agreed. 'Clean Eating' for us just means that we will be consuming healthy, minimally processed whole foods. We are trying to pack as much nutrition in every bite as possible. Whole grains and complex carbs, lots of fruits and veggies (organic/local if possible), lean protein, small amounts of healthy fats, and a reduced sugar intake. The sugar we will have will be as natural and unprocessed as possible (i.e. honey, agave nectar, pure maple syrup, etc.) and in very small quantities. I've also decided to reduce my alcohol intake to just a glass or two of wine on a weekend night as a treat, instead of a glass or two of wine every night as the norm. Smaller portions and lower calorie intake are both also a big factor in our challenge.

I've planned a weeks worth of food choices for every meal and both snacks. These tuna stuffed tomatoes were my first attempt at a clean lunchtime meal. I really revised my normal tuna salad recipe and, surprisingly, I didn't miss the excess ingredients that were high in calories/fat. These stuffed tomatoes were delicious, filling and satisfying. The husband and I each had one for lunch and really enjoyed our meal. So far, so good!

Tuna-Stuffed Tomatoes

Ingredients:
2 (large) cans of tuna in water, drained
2 ribs celery, chopped finely
1/4 white onion, chopped finely
2 green onions, chopped finely
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped finely
2 T Dijon mustard
1/2 cup non fat plain Greek yogurt
1 T mayo
1 T lemon juice
2 T dill relish
salt and pepper to taste
2 large beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl with the exception of the tomatoes and set aside. Cut the top of the tomatoes and hollow out the center core. Fill the tomato cavity with a heaping spoonful of tuna salad. Enjoy!