Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Caciofiore Aquilino cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Caciofiore Aquilino cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Pour the olive oil mixture over the cheese and olive mixture, and stir well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch baking dish, and spread it out evenly.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Remove the foil, and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven, and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Caciofiore Aquilino cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
- Kalamata olives can be substituted with any other type of black olive.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or blue cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.
- Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to grate the cheese finely for even melting.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers 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 in a decorative baking dish or on a platter.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped basil.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or chopped basil
Pairings:
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or light red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad with a light vinaigrette dressing
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting evenly, try stirring the mixture halfway through baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
- Caciofiore Aquilino is a type of cheese made from sheep's milk in the Abruzzo region of Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- Salty, tangy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or as part of a cheese board.
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Region: Italian