Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of Caciocavallo Silano cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, cubed Caciocavallo Silano cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh basil leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the tomato and cheese mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
10 minutes
Temperature: Room temperature
Serving size: 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 160
- Total fat: 12g
- Saturated fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total carbohydrates: 7g
- Dietary fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes.
- Caciocavallo Silano cheese can be substituted with provolone or mozzarella cheese.
- Red onion can be substituted with shallots or green onions.
- Fresh basil leaves can be substituted with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Variations:
- Add sliced cucumber or diced bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Add sliced black olives or capers for a briny flavor.
- Add cooked pasta or quinoa to make it a heartier meal.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a sharp knife to cube the cheese to prevent it from crumbling.
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use a good quality extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar for the dressing.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Serve with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or light beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Mixed greens salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.
- If the salad is too salty, reduce the amount of salt added or rinse the cheese before cubing.
Food safety advice:
- Wash all produce before using.
- Store leftover salad in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers that have been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
- Caciocavallo Silano cheese is a traditional Italian cheese that originated in the southern region of Calabria.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad is fresh and tangy with a creamy and slightly salty flavor from the Caciocavallo Silano cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or side dish at a summer barbecue or picnic.
- Serve as a light lunch or dinner with a side of garlic bread or mixed greens salad.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian