Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. Agrì di Valtorta cheese, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Oven-safe baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add sliced tomatoes to the skillet and cook until slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Layer the Agrì di Valtorta cheese slices in the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish.
5. Top the cheese with the cooked tomatoes.
6. Layer the fresh mozzarella cheese slices on top of the tomatoes.
7. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top of the cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Agrì di Valtorta cheese can be substituted with any semi-soft cheese, such as Fontina or Gouda.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese can be substituted with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or roasted red peppers to the tomato layer for added flavor.
- Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to slice the Agrì di Valtorta cheese thinly for even melting.
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve on a large platter with fresh basil leaves and crusty bread for dipping.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting evenly, cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the tomatoes thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
Agrì di Valtorta is a semi-soft cheese that originates from the Lombardy region of Italy. It is made from cow's milk and has a mild, nutty flavor.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or main course.
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Region: Italian