Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Canestrato Crotonese cheese, sliced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Cheese slicer or sharp knife
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic powder and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the tomato sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. In an oven-safe baking dish, arrange the Canestrato Crotonese cheese slices in a single layer.
7. Pour the tomato sauce over the cheese slices.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Canestrato Crotonese cheese can be substituted with any hard cheese like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
- Fresh garlic can be used instead of garlic powder.
Variations:
- Add sliced pepperoni or cooked ground beef to the tomato sauce for a meaty version.
- Top with sliced olives or roasted red peppers for added flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a cheese slicer or sharp knife to slice the Canestrato Crotonese cheese thinly for even melting.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping in the tomato sauce.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve on a platter with fresh basil leaves and sliced baguette.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Serve with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or Chianti.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting evenly, cover the baking dish with foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the cheese is fully melted and the dish is heated through before serving.
Food history:
- Canestrato Crotonese is a hard cheese made from sheep's milk in the Calabria region of Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- Canestrato Crotonese has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with tangy tomato sauce.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or as a main course with a side salad.
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Region: Italian