Cheddar Tomato Squares

The perfect dessert for every occasion! I invite you to discover the delicious recipe for Cheddar Tomato Squares, a savory combination of pasta, cheddar cheese, and tomatoes that will bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether it's a family dinner or a quick snack with friends, this simple and quick recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 150 g short pasta, preferably in square shapes (e.g., mini penne or farfalle), cooked and drained
- 30 g butter
- 30 g flour
- 300 ml milk
- 150 ml yogurt
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 170 g grated Cheddar cheese
- 2 tomatoes, sliced

A brief history

This recipe is inspired by the tradition of comfort cooking, where simple combinations of ingredients transform into delicious and comforting dishes. Cheddar Tomato Squares blend the creamy textures of cheese sauce with the freshness of tomatoes, offering a perfect balance between intense and delicate flavors. This dish is ideal to be served as an appetizer or a main course, while also having a gourmet touch.

Step by Step

1. Prepare the oven
Start by preheating the oven to 220°C. This high temperature will help achieve a golden and crispy crust.

2. Prepare the cheese sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted, add the flour and sauté for about a minute. This step is essential to create a roux, which will give the sauce consistency. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps.

3. Add the liquid ingredients
Gradually incorporate the milk and yogurt, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth mixture. Keep stirring until the sauce starts to boil and thickens. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Don't forget to add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to season the sauce!

4. Integrate the cheese
Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the mustard and 120 g of the Cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy and flavorful. This is the perfect moment to enjoy the enticing aroma developing!

5. Add the pasta
Incorporate the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. This is a wonderful moment to taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

6. Assemble the dish
Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into a heat-resistant dish. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese on top and arrange the tomato slices evenly over the cheese to add a touch of freshness and color.

7. Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and a tempting crust appears. You will notice the cheese bubbling, which is a sign that your dish is almost ready!

8. Serve
Once the Cheddar Tomato Squares are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before slicing. You can serve them with a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips

- Choose the right cheese: Cheddar cheese is ideal due to its intense flavor, but you can also experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyère or Mozzarella for a different taste.
- Freeze leftovers: If you made more than you consumed, Cheddar Tomato Squares can be easily frozen. Make sure to cover them well to prevent freezer burn.
- Vary the flavors: You can add vegetables of your choice, such as spinach or mushrooms, to enrich the dish with nutrients and diversify its taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy choice and will add an interesting texture.

2. Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and assemble everything, then keep it in the fridge until it's time to bake.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A light beer or a dry white wine are excellent options to accompany the flavors of cheese and tomatoes.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe offers a good source of protein from the cheese and yogurt, as well as carbohydrates from the pasta that will provide you with energy. Tomatoes provide a significant amount of antioxidants, especially lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.

In conclusion, Cheddar Tomato Squares is not just a simple recipe, but a true feast for the taste buds. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. Each bite will be an explosion of flavors and freshness, and the final result will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Happy cooking!