Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Fior di Latte cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
- Food processor or blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the Fior di Latte cheese into 1/4-inch thick slices.
3. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is smooth.
4. Brush both sides of the cheese slices with the basil pesto.
5. Place the cheese slices on the grill or grill pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and slightly charred.
6. Remove the cheese from the grill and serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 6 minutes
Temperature:
- Grill or grill pan: medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fior di Latte cheese can be substituted with fresh mozzarella cheese.
- Pine nuts can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top of the grilled cheese.
- Use different herbs such as parsley or cilantro in the pesto.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze on top of the grilled cheese for added sweetness.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the grill or grill pan is hot before placing the cheese on it.
- Brush the cheese with the pesto just before grilling to prevent it from drying out.
- Serve the grilled cheese immediately to prevent it from getting cold and losing its texture.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the grilled cheese in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the grilled cheese on a platter with fresh basil leaves and sliced tomatoes.
Garnishes:
- Garnish the grilled cheese with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Pairings:
- Serve the grilled cheese with a side salad or grilled vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Grilled asparagus with lemon and Parmesan cheese
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is sticking to the grill or grill pan, brush it with a little bit of olive oil before placing it on the heat.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the cheese is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Fior di Latte cheese is a type of fresh mozzarella cheese that originated in Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- The grilled cheese has a smoky and slightly charred flavor, while the basil pesto adds a fresh and herbaceous taste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the grilled cheese as an appetizer or a light lunch.
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Region: Italian