Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, olives, basil, parsley, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Serve the checca sauce cold or at room temperature with your favorite pasta, grilled chicken, or fish.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve cold or at room temperature
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of sauce
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of tomato you like, but cherry tomatoes work best in this recipe.
- If you don't have kalamata olives, you can use any other type of olive you like.
- You can substitute fresh oregano for the basil or parsley if you prefer.
Variations:
- Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper tomato flavor.
- Use this sauce as a topping for bruschetta or crostini.
- Add some chopped anchovies for a salty, umami flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use the freshest ingredients you can find for the best flavor.
- Don't overmix the sauce or it will become too watery.
- You can make this sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
- Store the checca sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This sauce is best served cold or at room temperature, so there is no need to reheat it.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the checca sauce in a bowl with a spoon for guests to help themselves.
- Use the sauce as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
Garnishes:
- Garnish the sauce with some extra chopped basil or parsley.
Pairings:
- Serve the checca sauce with your favorite pasta, grilled chicken, or fish.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the sauce with a side salad or some garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too watery, add more tomatoes or olives to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash all produce thoroughly before using it in the recipe.
Food history:
- Checca sauce is a traditional Italian sauce made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Flavor profiles:
- This sauce is bright, fresh, and tangy, with a salty kick from the olives.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the checca sauce as a topping for pasta, grilled chicken, or fish.
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Region: Italian