Mini BLT's: Vegetarian Style!

It is time to enjoy the flavor of bacon without the meat! In listing the ingredients below, I include my personal preference for specific brands or varieties. In my kitchen, we are looking for ways to cut calories without cutting flavor, and keep costs minimal. 

Ingredients

pint of grape tomatoes 
1/4 c. mayo (made with canola)
1/4 c. vegetable cream cheese (1/3 less fat- Philadelphia)
          chives, diced
          Bacon-flavored pieces (McCormick)
Spices: heavy on garlic and dill, light on cilantro (gives it a kick), salt, pepper, parsley
 (recommend Himalayan Pink Sea Salt- freshly ground)

Process


Cut grape tomatoes length-wise in half and scoop out the middle of each piece. This will leave you with two "canoes" from each tomato. Place tomato face down on a paper towel to drain additional juices.

Meanwhile, mix other ingredients together- creating the filling. I do not measure my spices as I make this, I look at the color and smell. I like to see a lot of green on top before I mix it all together. 

Once the mix is finished, stand up the tomato "canoe" and scoop the mix into the tomato. As I was eating this deliciousness, I decided the next time I make this I will try something crunchy to top it with- such as a bagel chip or croutons. 

This platter was devoured in less than five minutes after placing it on the table.