Appetizer > Easy > Cheeses

Easy Cheese and Tomato Conversation Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are softened and beginning to break down, about 5 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and combined.
5. Serve warm.

Time:
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: 4

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Protein: 12 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Olive oil can be substituted with any other cooking oil.
- Garlic can be substituted with garlic powder or garlic paste.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with any other type of tomato.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with any other type of hard cheese.

Variations:
- Add other vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Add other herbs and spices such as basil, thyme, or red pepper flakes.
- Add cooked sausage or ground beef.
- Add cooked pasta or rice.

Tips and Tricks:
- Use fresh ingredients for best results.
- Use a good quality cheese for best flavor.
- Cook the tomatoes until they are softened and beginning to break down for best flavor.

Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Pairings:
Pair with a light white wine or a cold beer.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a salad or roasted vegetables.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese is not melting, increase the heat and stir constantly.
- If the cheese is burning, reduce the heat and stir constantly.

Food Safety Advice:
Refrigerate leftovers promptly and discard any food that has been left out for more than 2 hours.

Food History:
This dish is believed to have originated in Italy and is a popular comfort food.

Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory, cheesy flavor with a hint of garlic and herbs.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a main dish with a side salad.

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Taste: Savory, Tangy, Cheesy, Rich, Creamy