Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. Provola delle Madonie cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
- 2 tbsp. capers, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olives, capers, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and oregano.
3. Arrange the sliced Provola cheese in a single layer in an oven-safe baking dish.
4. Spoon the olive and caper mixture over the cheese slices, spreading it evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 740mg
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Provola delle Madonie cheese can be substituted with any other semi-soft cheese, such as mozzarella or fontina.
- Kalamata olives can be substituted with any other type of black olive.
- Capers can be substituted with chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Variations:
- Add sliced garlic to the olive and caper mixture for extra flavor.
- Top the baked cheese with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving.
- Serve the baked cheese with toasted bread or crackers for dipping.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to use an oven-safe baking dish to avoid any accidents.
- If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover it with foil again and continue baking until melted and bubbly.
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the olives and capers in the olive oil and spices for a few hours before using.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked cheese on a platter with a sprig of fresh herbs for garnish.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Pair with a charcuterie board for a complete appetizer spread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes.
- A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese isn't melting, increase the oven temperature and continue baking until melted and bubbly.
- If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking until melted and bubbly.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to use an oven-safe baking dish to avoid any accidents.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Food history:
Provola delle Madonie is a semi-soft cheese made from cow's milk in the Madonie Mountains of Sicily. It has a mild, buttery flavor and a creamy texture.
Flavor profiles:
Salty, tangy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or snack.
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Region: Italian