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– 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of your favorite melting cheeses)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
– Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Lay the tomato slices out on the prepared baking sheet, slightly overlapping if needed.
3. Season the tomato slices with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried oregano. There’s something about oregano that just sings with tomatoes – like they’re culinary soulmates.
4. Generously pile on the shredded mozzarella cheese over each tomato slice. Then, sprinkle with grated Parmesan for that golden touch because let’s face it – the more cheese, the merrier.
5. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top. This will not only add a richness of flavor but will also help you get that irresistible golden-brown cheese that you’re after.
6. Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. You know your oven best, so keep an eye on them!
7. Once done, remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the fresh basil. If you’re feeling feisty, throw on some red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
Variations & Tips
Let’s talk variations because we all like to play with our food, right? You can get creative by adding a layer of pesto underneath the cheese for an extra herby punch, or by using a blend of cheeses, such as Gouda or fontina, for a different melting experience. For those seeking a little more substance, consider placing thinly sliced cooked chicken or prosciutto beneath the cheese before baking.
And here’s a tip from my kitchen to yours – if you’re in a rush, feel free to use your broiler for the last few minutes to expedite the golden-cheese-crusted process. Just keep a close watch because we’re looking for gloriously melted cheese, not charred memories!
There you have it, a nostalgic yet undeniably delicious side dish that calls for minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor. Happy baking, dear friends!
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