Baked Caprese Crostini

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Italian bread (sliced 1 inch thick) - 8 slices
2. Fresh basil leaves - 10-12 leaves
3. Fresh mozzarella - 200 grams (about 7 oz)
4. Sliced tomatoes - 2 cups (use ripe, in-season tomatoes)
5. Extra virgin olive oil - 3 tablespoons
6. Salt and pepper - to taste
7. Grated parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. In the meantime, slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into thin pieces.
4. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, brush each slice with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Top each slice of bread with tomato slices, followed by mozzarella and basil leaves. Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
6. Place the crostini back in the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: ~300 per serving (based on ingredients listed)
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 3g (approximate values may vary depending on specific ingredients used)

Dish Characteristics:

• An appetizer or snack dish that is popular in Italian cuisine.
• Crispy, salty bread topped with fresh, delicious tomato and mozzarella combination.
• Slightly salty with a creamy, fresh flavor from the cheese and basil.

User Comments:

1. "This dish is delicious! The combination of tomato and mozzarella is perfect."
2. "The crostini were a hit at my party! I will definitely make them again."
3. "I love the combination of flavors in this dish. The basil adds a nice fresh touch."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use fresh ingredients for best results. If possible, buy fresh mozzarella and ripe, in-season tomatoes.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. Start with smaller amounts of salt and pepper and add more if needed.
• Make sure to toast the bread slices until they are golden brown to ensure a crispy texture.