Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Crackers or bread, for serving
Special equipment needed:
- Aluminum foil
- Food processor
- Springform pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Cut off the top of each garlic head to expose the cloves. Place each head on a piece of aluminum foil and drizzle with olive oil. Wrap the garlic in the foil and roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
3. Remove the garlic from the oven and let it cool. Once cool, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and set aside.
4. In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Add the roasted garlic and pulse until everything is well combined.
5. Grease a 6-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Spoon the cheese mixture into the pan and smooth out the top.
6. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the torta is firm.
7. To serve, remove the torta from the pan and discard the parchment paper. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired. Serve with crackers or bread.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 400°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of cheddar cheese, you can use any other type of shredded cheese, such as Gouda or Swiss.
- Instead of fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley or any other fresh herb, such as thyme or rosemary.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Substitute the Parmesan cheese for feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- If you don't have a springform pan, you can use a regular cake pan lined with plastic wrap.
Storage instructions:
- Store the torta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- The torta can be served cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, you can microwave it for 30 seconds or heat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the torta on a platter with crackers or bread arranged around it.
- Cut the torta into small wedges and serve as an appetizer.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or other fresh herbs
- Sliced olives
- Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh vegetables, such as carrot sticks or cucumber slices
- A green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the torta is too soft, refrigerate it for a longer period of time until it firms up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to refrigerate the torta promptly after serving to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Food history:
- The torta is a traditional Italian dish that is typically made with cheese, eggs, and vegetables.
Flavor profiles:
- The roasted garlic adds a sweet and nutty flavor to the creamy cheese mixture, while the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses provide a sharp and tangy taste.
Serving suggestions:
- The torta is perfect for a party or gathering, as it can be made ahead of time and served as an appetizer or snack.
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