Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese: A Delightful and Easy Appetizer
When it comes to creating simple yet sophisticated dishes, the combination of ripe tomatoes and creamy goat cheese is hard to beat. This recipe for Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese is a perfect example of how a few high-quality ingredients can come together to create a culinary masterpiece in just a few minutes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick snack, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable recipe, which you can easily make in less than 10 minutes.
Ingredients and Quantities
To prepare this delightful appetizer, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- Fresh ground pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (amount to taste)
- 3 ounces of goat cheese, thinly sliced
Nutritional Information
This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a decent nutritional profile per serving:
- Calories: 100.1 kcal
- Fat Content: 6.6 grams
- Saturated Fat Content: 4.5 grams
- Cholesterol Content: 16.8 milligrams
- Sodium Content: 115.7 milligrams
- Carbohydrate Content: 5.5 grams
- Fiber Content: 1.6 grams
- Sugar Content: 3.8 grams
- Protein Content: 5.7 grams
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
This recipe is categorized under “Vegetable” and is tagged as both “< 15 Mins" and "Easy", making it an ideal choice for a quick and straightforward dish. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing and cooking Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese:
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
Steps:
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Slice the Tomatoes:
- Begin by slicing each tomato into four thick slices. This will ensure they hold up well during the broiling process and provide a robust base for the cheese.
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Arrange the Slices:
- Place the tomato slices in a single layer in a shallow baking dish. This allows for even cooking and makes it easy to handle.
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Slice the Goat Cheese:
- Thinly slice the goat cheese. This ensures that it melts quickly and evenly when broiled.
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Top the Tomatoes:
- Arrange the sliced goat cheese over each tomato slice. Make sure each tomato slice gets a generous amount of cheese.
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Season the Tomatoes:
- Sprinkle fresh ground pepper over the tomatoes and cheese to taste. Then, add the fresh basil. The pepper adds a nice kick, while the basil provides a fragrant and fresh note.
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Broil or Microwave:
- Broil: Place the baking dish under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is slightly browned.
- Microwave: If you’re short on time, you can microwave the dish on high for 2 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey, and the tomatoes are slightly softened but still firm. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- As an Appetizer: Serve the broiled tomatoes as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party. They pair wonderfully with a glass of chilled white wine.
- On a Salad: Place the broiled tomatoes on a bed of mixed greens for a delightful and visually appealing salad. The melted goat cheese acts as a creamy dressing.
- With Bread: Serve alongside slices of crusty baguette or toasted crostini. The bread can be used to scoop up the melted cheese and tomato juices, making each bite even more satisfying.
- As a Side Dish: This dish also works well as a side for grilled meats or fish, adding a burst of flavor and freshness to your main course.
Variations and Tips
To add more depth and complexity to this simple recipe, consider the following variations and tips:
- Herb Variations: Substitute fresh basil with other herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Alternatives: While goat cheese provides a tangy and creamy texture, you can experiment with other cheeses such as feta, mozzarella, or blue cheese.
- Add Garlic: For a more robust flavor, rub a clove of garlic on the tomato slices before adding the cheese.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before broiling can add a rich and fruity note to the dish.
- Enhance with Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished dish adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy goat cheese and juicy tomatoes.
Health Benefits
Tomatoes and goat cheese are both nutritious ingredients that offer several health benefits:
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which is linked to reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. They are also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K.
- Goat Cheese: Provides a good amount of protein and healthy fats. It’s easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese for many people due to its lower lactose content. Goat cheese also contains probiotics that support a healthy gut.
User Reviews and Rating
This Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese recipe has received a perfect aggregated rating of 5 stars based on 1 review. Here is what the reviewer had to say:
- Reviewer: A food enthusiast who tried the recipe commented, “This dish is incredibly easy to make and tastes absolutely delicious! The combination of creamy goat cheese with juicy tomatoes and fresh basil is a match made in heaven. It’s perfect for a quick appetizer or a light snack. I’ll definitely be making this again!”
Conclusion
Broiled Tomatoes with Goat Cheese is a versatile and delectable recipe that exemplifies the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create a gourmet experience. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish offers a burst of flavors and textures that are sure to delight your palate. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light snack, it is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the harmonious blend of juicy tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and aromatic basil, and relish in the joy of creating a delicious meal in just a few minutes.
