Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gourmet Broiled Tomato and Mozzarella Delight?
It is a gourmet appetizer or side dish featuring plum tomatoes and mozzarella cheese topped with red onions and sun-dried tomatoes, drizzled with a herb-infused dressing and broiled until melty.
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 lb of sliced plum tomatoes for their firm texture and flavor.
How much mozzarella cheese is required?
You will need 8 ounces of sliced mozzarella cheese.
What are the main flavors in the dressing?
The dressing is made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh mixed herbs like basil, parsley, oregano, and chives.
How long does the dish need to be under the broiler?
The mozzarella should be broiled for approximately 4 to 5 minutes until it begins to melt and bubble.
What temperature should the broiler be set to?
The broiler should be preheated to high for the best results.
How should the ingredients be arranged for presentation?
The sliced plum tomatoes and mozzarella should be arranged in overlapping circles in four individual shallow flameproof dishes.
What kind of onion is used in this recipe?
One finely chopped red onion is sprinkled over the layered cheese and tomatoes.
Are the sun-dried tomatoes used directly from the jar?
No, you should use 4 to 6 pieces of sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, but they must be drained and chopped first.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs like basil and parsley are recommended for the best flavor, dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities if necessary.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
This dish is served immediately after broiling while the cheese is warm and bubbling.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 140 calories.
What is the fat content of this dish?
The recipe contains 10g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates does this recipe have?
There are 8g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content?
Each serving provides 6g of protein.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this dish consists of vegetables, cheese, and oil-based dressing, making it suitable for vegetarians.
How much Dijon mustard is used?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard for the dressing.
What kind of vinegar is used in the herb-infused dressing?
One teaspoon of red wine vinegar is used to add a delightful tang.
Should I season the dish with salt and pepper?
Yes, the dressing is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste, and a final touch of freshly cracked pepper is added after broiling.
What type of dishes are recommended for cooking?
You should use four individual shallow flameproof dishes to ensure they can withstand the heat of the broiler.
How do I garnish the final dish?
The dish is garnished with sprigs of fresh herbs for added freshness and presentation.
Is there a specific way to chop the red onion?
The red onion should be finely chopped to ensure it distributes flavor evenly across the dish.
What is the purpose of the olive oil in this recipe?
1/4 cup of olive oil acts as the base for the herb-infused dressing drizzled over the salad.
Can I substitute the mozzarella with another cheese?
Mozzarella is preferred for its melting qualities, but other mild cheeses could be used as a variation.
How many different herbs are suggested for the mixed herb blend?
The recipe suggests four tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, oregano, and chives.
Does the recipe contain any sugar?
According to the nutritional data provided, the sugar content is not specified or is negligible.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food due to the warm, melty cheese and vibrant flavors.
How many ingredients are in this recipe total?
There are a total of 11 ingredients used in this preparation.
What makes this dish 'gourmet'?
The combination of fresh plum tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hand-whisked herb vinaigrette creates a sophisticated flavor profile.
When should the fresh pepper be added?
Freshly cracked pepper should be added as a final touch once the dishes are removed from the broiler.