Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 8 oz. Caciotta Calabra cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Brush for oil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush each baguette slice with the olive oil mixture.
4. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
6. Top each crostini with a slice of Caciotta Calabra cheese and a spoonful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
7. Place the crostinis back in the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-17 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
Makes 12 crostinis
Nutritional information:
Calories: 170
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 290mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baguette can be substituted with any crusty bread.
- Caciotta Calabra cheese can be substituted with any mild cheese.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be substituted with fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Variations:
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for extra flavor.
- Top with sliced olives or capers for a salty kick.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brush the crostinis with the olive oil mixture evenly to prevent them from burning.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the Caciotta Calabra cheese for easier melting.
- Let the crostinis cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover crostinis in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat crostinis in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange crostinis on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
Pair with a glass of red wine or a light salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a side salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the crostinis are burning, reduce the oven temperature or shorten the cooking time.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store leftovers properly in the refrigerator to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
Caciotta Calabra is a type of cheese from Calabria, Italy. It is a mild cheese that is often used in traditional Italian dishes.
Flavor profiles:
The crostinis have a savory and slightly sweet flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes and a creamy and mild flavor from the Caciotta Calabra cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a light lunch.
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Region: Italian