Italian > Gratin

Formaggio and Tomato Gratin Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.

3. Layer the sliced tomatoes in a baking dish.

4. Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the tomatoes.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- 375°F
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 18g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
- Instead of mozzarella cheese, you can use provolone or fontina cheese.
- Instead of fresh basil, you can use dried basil.

Variations:
- Add sliced onions or bell peppers to the tomato layer.
- Use different types of cheese for a different flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or sausage to the cheese and breadcrumb mixture.

Tips and tricks:
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Make sure the cheese and breadcrumb mixture is evenly distributed over the tomatoes.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley.

Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Chopped parsley

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.

Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting, increase the oven temperature and bake for a few more minutes.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the tomatoes before slicing them.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Food history:
- Gratin is a French dish that typically consists of a creamy sauce and a layer of cheese and breadcrumbs on top.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy from the tomatoes.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite meal.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Tangy, Creamy, Garlicky