Grilled > Mexican

Grilled Vegetable Torta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1/2 inch strips
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz. goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 loaf ciabatta bread, sliced horizontally
- 2 cups arugula

Special Equipment Needed:
- Grill pan or outdoor grill

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.

2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant, zucchini, red bell pepper, and onion with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Grill vegetables until tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from grill and let cool.

4. In a medium bowl, mix together goat cheese, basil, parsley, chives, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.

5. Spread goat cheese mixture on the bottom half of the ciabatta bread.

6. Layer grilled vegetables on top of the goat cheese mixture.

7. Top with arugula and the other half of the ciabatta bread.

8. Cut into slices and serve.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Grill pan or outdoor grill: medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any variety of squash can be used in place of zucchini.
- Feta cheese can be used in place of goat cheese.
- Any type of bread can be used in place of ciabatta.

Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes or roasted garlic to the sandwich.
- Use different herbs in the goat cheese mixture, such as thyme or oregano.
- Add sliced avocado or roasted red onions to the sandwich.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to slice the vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Brush the grill pan or outdoor grill with oil to prevent sticking.
- Let the vegetables cool slightly before assembling the sandwich to prevent the bread from getting soggy.

Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the sandwich in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the sandwich on a wooden board or platter.
- Cut the sandwich into smaller pieces for a party or gathering.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top of the sandwich.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze on top of the sandwich.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or soup.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Tomato soup with croutons

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the vegetables are sticking to the grill pan or outdoor grill, brush them with more oil.
- If the bread is getting too crispy, cover the sandwich with foil while grilling.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash all vegetables before grilling.
- Keep the sandwich refrigerated until ready to serve.

Food History:
- The torta is a traditional Mexican sandwich that is typically made with meat, cheese, and vegetables.

Flavor Profiles:
- The Grilled Vegetable Torta has a smoky and savory flavor from the grilled vegetables, tangy and creamy flavor from the goat cheese mixture, and a slightly bitter flavor from the arugula.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the sandwich with a cold beer or glass of white wine.

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Region: Mexican

Taste: Savory, Smoky, Tangy, Herby, Earthy, Charred