Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes.
3. Add the balsamic vinegar to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vinegar has reduced and thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and heavy cream, and beat until well combined.
5. Spread half of the cheese mixture into the prepared springform pan. Top with the caramelized onions, spreading them out evenly. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top of the onions.
6. Spread the remaining cheese mixture over the onions and walnuts, smoothing it out with a spatula.
7. Bake the torta for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is set.
8. Let the torta cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove the sides of the pan and transfer the torta to a serving platter. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 256
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 56mg
Sodium: 417mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Blue cheese can be substituted for Gorgonzola cheese.
- Pecans or almonds can be substituted for walnuts.
Variations:
- Add sliced pears or apples to the torta for a sweet and savory twist.
- Use caramelized shallots instead of onions for a milder flavor.
- Top the torta with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the onions thinly and evenly.
- Let the torta cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover torta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the torta, place it on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the torta on a wooden board or platter, surrounded by crackers or sliced baguette.
- Garnish the torta with fresh herbs or additional chopped nuts.
Pairings:
- Serve the torta with a glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed greens salad with a balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots
- Grilled chicken or steak
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the torta is not setting properly, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is fully cooked.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the onions thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
- The torta is a traditional Italian dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, meats, and cheeses.
Flavor profiles:
- The caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the torta, while the Gorgonzola cheese provides a tangy and creamy taste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the torta as an appetizer or as part of a cheese board.
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