Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 slices of Caciocavallo di Bufala cheese, 1/2 inch thick
- 4 Roma tomatoes, sliced in half
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special Equipment Needed:
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture over the sliced tomatoes and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Roast the tomatoes in the oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the tomatoes are roasting, grill the Caciocavallo di Bufala cheese slices for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are slightly charred and melted.
6. Once the tomatoes are done, remove them from the oven and set them aside.
7. Arrange the grilled cheese slices on a serving plate and top them with the roasted tomatoes.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
Grill pan or outdoor grill: medium-high heat
Oven: 375°F
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 220
Total fat: 17g
Saturated fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 360mg
Total carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Caciocavallo di Bufala cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese that melts well, such as provolone or mozzarella.
- Roma tomatoes can be substituted with cherry tomatoes or any other type of tomato.
Variations:
- Add some sliced red onions to the roasted tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Top the grilled cheese with some prosciutto or cooked bacon for a meaty twist.
- Drizzle some honey over the roasted tomatoes for a sweet and savory combination.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to brush the garlic and olive oil mixture over the tomatoes evenly to ensure they are well-coated.
- Use a spatula to flip the cheese slices on the grill to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Serve the dish immediately after grilling the cheese to ensure it is still warm and melted.
Storage Instructions:
This dish is best served fresh and should not be stored for later consumption.
Reheating Instructions:
This dish is not recommended for reheating as the cheese may become tough and rubbery.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the grilled cheese and roasted tomatoes on a large platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves are the perfect garnish for this dish.
Pairings:
This dish pairs well with a light and refreshing salad or a side of crusty bread.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese is not melting properly, try grilling it for a few more minutes on each side.
- If the tomatoes are not caramelizing, increase the oven temperature and roast them for a few more minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash the tomatoes thoroughly before slicing them.
- Use a clean and sanitized grill pan or outdoor grill to prevent contamination.
Food History:
Caciocavallo di Bufala is a type of Italian cheese made from the milk of water buffalo. It has a rich and creamy flavor and is often used in traditional Italian dishes.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory and slightly tangy flavor from the grilled cheese and roasted tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish as an appetizer or a light lunch.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian