Creole Stuffed Tomatoes

6 to 8 large tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups cooked long grain rice
1/2 pound sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1 egg, beaten
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 pound cooked small shrimp
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

Cut a thin slice off the top of each tomato; scoop out the discard pulp. Sprinkle salt inside the tomatoes; invert on paper towels to drain. In a large bowl, combine the rice, bacon, cheese, onion, parsley, egg and pepper. Fold in shrimp. Spoon into tomatoes.

Place in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Combine bread crumbs and butter; sprinkle over the tomatoes. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30 minutes or until heated through. Makes 6-8 servings.