Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups of fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Pulse until the mixture is smooth.
2. Transfer the tomato mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in the chopped artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve the sauce immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Serving size:
- This recipe makes about 2 cups of sauce, serving 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 200
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh tomatoes can be substituted with canned tomatoes.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to the sauce for a protein boost.
- Use the sauce as a topping for grilled vegetables or pasta.
Tips and tricks:
- For a smoother sauce, strain the tomato mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste preference.
Storage instructions:
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sauce in a bowl or on a platter, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Serve the sauce with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Roasted potatoes
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more olive oil to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to properly store the sauce in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Checca sauce is a traditional Italian sauce made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Flavor profiles:
- The sauce is fresh and tangy with a hint of sweetness from the sun-dried tomatoes.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sauce as a dip for vegetables or as a topping for grilled meats or pasta.
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Region: Italian