Parmesan baskets filled with cherry tomatoes and goat cheese

Parmesan baskets filled with cherry tomatoes and goat cheese

An elegant and savory appetizer, parmesan baskets are a perfect choice for any occasion, from a refined dinner to a casual party. These little culinary masterpieces not only look spectacular but also offer an explosion of flavors with every bite. By making them, you will not only impress your guests but also discover how simple ingredients can transform an ordinary appetizer into an unforgettable delicacy.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 5 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 150 g Grana Padano parmesan (or other quality parmesan)
- 2-3 cherry tomatoes
- 50 g red onion
- 50 g cucumber
- 100 g goat cheese
- 2 slices of chicken ham
- 100 g green pepper
- 1 parsley leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Brief history

Parmesan, a renowned cheese, has its origins in an ancient tradition, being used in various recipes, from pasta to appetizers. Parmesan baskets are a modern adaptation of this cheese, perfectly blending with fresh vegetables and goat cheese, which adds a creamy note and a distinct flavor.

Step by step: Preparing the baskets

1. Grating the parmesan: Use a small grater to obtain freshly grated parmesan. This will bring an intense flavor and unmistakable aroma to your baskets.

2. Heating the pan: Choose a non-stick pan and place it over medium heat. It is important not to add oil, as the parmesan will release enough fat to fry evenly.

3. Preparing the baskets: Once the pan is well heated, add the grated parmesan, sprinkling it evenly on the bottom of the pan. Make sure not to leave empty spaces between the crumbs so that the baskets are solid.

4. Frying: Let the parmesan cook for a few minutes until it turns golden. At this point, it is essential to be careful, as it can become bitter if left too long.

5. Forming the baskets: When the parmesan is ready, use a wooden spatula to carefully lift the edge of the basket. Quickly place it on a cup or glass to shape it. Let it cool, during which it will harden.

Preparing the filling

6. Chopping the ingredients: While the parmesan cools, prepare the filling. Cut the chicken ham, goat cheese, and green pepper into small cubes. Grate the red onion and julienne the cucumber.

7. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine all the chopped ingredients. Add the quartered cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything well.

8. Filling the baskets: When the parmesan baskets have completely cooled and hardened, fill them with the vegetable and cheese mixture, being careful not to overfill.

9. Decoration: For an elegant look, decorate each basket with a parsley leaf. This detail adds not only a splash of color but also a fresh taste.

Serving and combinations

You can serve these baskets as appetizers at a party or as a refined snack alongside a glass of dry white wine or a fresh cocktail. They also pair wonderfully with a light green salad or a yogurt dip with mint, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Tips and variations

- Filling variations: You can experiment with different fillings, such as avocado, smoked salmon, or even a mix of cheeses.
- Using other cheeses: Instead of parmesan, you can use pecorino or cheddar, but make sure to monitor the frying time, as each cheese has a different melting point.
- Moisture: If your filling is too wet, the baskets may become soft. Ensure that all ingredients are well drained before adding them.

Nutritional benefits

Parmesan is an excellent source of calcium and protein, while goat cheese adds healthy fats and vitamins. Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, and fresh vegetables contribute to a balanced diet. These baskets are a delicious way to combine taste with health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I make the parmesan baskets a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the baskets and keep them covered in the refrigerator until serving. Just fill them right before serving to prevent sogginess.

2. What other cheeses can I use?
Besides goat cheese, you can use ricotta, feta, or cottage cheese for a lighter option.

3. How can I customize these baskets?
Add spices, such as oregano or basil, to bring an extra note of flavor.

This recipe for parmesan baskets filled with cherry tomatoes and goat cheese is not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to have fun in the kitchen, exploring combinations of flavors and textures. Prepare them for your next gathering or simply as a personal treat. Enjoy!