This savory toast recipe combines rich mozzarella cheese with a vibrant mix of fresh ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light lunch, these toasts are topped with a flavorful blend of red peppers, olives, ham, and fresh herbs. The creamy sour cream adds a delightful finishing touch, balancing the flavors and providing a touch of tanginess. Enjoy this recipe for a delicious and versatile addition to your cooking repertoire!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 toasted slices of bread
- 200 grams (7 ounces) of Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 bunch of parsley, finely chopped
- 2 red peppers, finely chopped
- 60 grams (2 ounces) of olives, sliced
- 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of ham, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of sour cream
- 1 bunch of green onions, finely chopped
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) if you plan to heat the toasts.
- Toast the bread slices until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the Toppings:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded Mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley, finely chopped red peppers, sliced olives, and finely chopped green onions.
- Add the thinly sliced ham to the bowl. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Assemble the Toasts:
- Spread a thin layer of sour cream on each toasted slice of bread.
- Evenly distribute the cheese and vegetable mixture over the toasts, spreading it out to cover the surface.
- Bake the Toasts:
- Place the prepared toasts on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the toasts from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the toasts warm, straight from the oven, as a delightful snack or a light meal.
Tips
- Bread Choice: Use your favorite type of bread for toasting. Sourdough, whole grain, or a rustic baguette can add different flavors and textures.
- Customizing Toppings: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or different types of cheese can be great additions.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to vary the flavor profile of the toasts.
- For Extra Crispiness: For a crunchier texture, toast the bread slices a little longer before adding the toppings.
Possible Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Mozzarella with other cheeses like Cheddar, Gouda, or a mix of your favorites for a different flavor profile. - What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as an alternative to sour cream. Both will add a creamy texture and tangy flavor. - Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Toast the bread and add the mixture right before baking for the best results. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the ham or replace it with a vegetarian alternative, such as sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover toasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The texture may change slightly, but they can be reheated in the oven to restore some crispiness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the toasted slices with the topping mixture. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
- Prepping Ahead: If you plan to prepare the topping mixture in advance, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble and bake the toasts just before serving.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 4 toasts)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 14g (including 6g saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
These savory toasts are not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavors and textures that make them a standout choice for any meal. The creamy Mozzarella cheese, combined with fresh vegetables and savory ham, creates a delicious and satisfying treat. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or light lunch, these toasts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. With a few simple steps and customizable ingredients, you can easily make this recipe your own. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade toasts and impress your guests with this flavorful and versatile dish!