Appetizer > Italian > Cheese

Caciocavallo Podolico Cheese and Tomato Bruschetta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 slices of crusty bread
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces Caciocavallo Podolico cheese, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

2. In a small bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

3. Brush both sides of the bread slices with olive oil.

4. Grill the bread slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly charred.

5. Remove the bread from the grill and place on a serving plate.

6. Top each slice of bread with a few spoonfuls of the tomato mixture.

7. Add a few slices of Caciocavallo Podolico cheese on top of the tomato mixture.

8. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.

9. Serve immediately.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6 minutes
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan at medium-high heat
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 280
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 420mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 9g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of crusty bread can be used instead of the recommended bread.
- Mozzarella cheese can be used instead of Caciocavallo Podolico cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced prosciutto or salami on top of the cheese for a meatier version.
- Use roasted garlic instead of minced garlic for a sweeter flavor.
- Substitute fresh oregano or thyme for the basil.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the grill or grill pan is hot before adding the bread slices to ensure a nice char.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the bread for easier cutting.
- Let the tomato mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage instructions:
This dish is best served fresh and should not be stored.

Reheating instructions:
This dish is best served fresh and should not be reheated.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the bruschetta slices on a wooden board or platter for a rustic look.

Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves can be used as a garnish.

Pairings:
This dish pairs well with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio.

Suggested side dishes:
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would be a great side dish to serve with this bruschetta.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the bread slices are too thick, they may not cook through on the grill. Make sure to use thinly sliced bread or slice the bread yourself to ensure even cooking.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash the tomatoes thoroughly before dicing them.

Food history:
Bruschetta originated in Italy and traditionally consists of grilled bread rubbed with garlic and topped with olive oil and salt.

Flavor profiles:
This dish has a savory and tangy flavor from the tomatoes and cheese, with a hint of garlic and fresh basil.

Serving suggestions:
Serve this dish as an appetizer or light lunch.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Creamy, Nutty, Aromatic