Baked Layered Italian Spread

Baked Layered Italian Spread Recipe - Authentic Italian Delight

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

The Baked Layered Italian Spread is a delightful and versatile dish that brings the rich flavors of Italy right to your table. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe combines creamy cheeses, vibrant vegetables, and savory meats layered together to create a mouthwatering appetizer or side dish. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a unique potluck contribution, or simply want to enjoy a taste of Italy at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

History

The origins of layered spreads can be traced back to the Mediterranean, where the art of combining various ingredients to create flavorful dishes has been perfected over centuries. The Baked Layered Italian Spread is inspired by traditional Italian antipasti, which often feature a variety of cheeses, meats, and vegetables. This recipe takes the concept of antipasti and transforms it into a warm, baked dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of softened cream cheese
0.25 cup of grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp of grated asiago cheese
0.33 cup of pesto sauce
0.5 tsp of minced roasted garlic
0.5 cup of finely shredded mozzarella cheese
0.25 cup of minced roasted red peppers (from the jar is fine)
2 tbsp of chopped Parma ham or prosciutto (omit if making vegetarian style)
0.25 cup of cooked small white beans
0.33 cup of chopped black olives or green olives (your choice)
0.33 cup of chopped marinated artichoke hearts
1 tbsp of minced red onions
1 tbsp of freshly minced parsley

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a bowl, cream together the cream cheese, Parmesan, and asagio. Spread the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch deep-dish pie dish.
Mix together the pesto and roasted garlic. Spread a layer of this mixture over the cheeses in the dish.
Spread the shredded mozzarella over the pesto layer, then sprinkle with the roasted red pepper.
Mix together the Parma ham or prosciutto and the cooked white beans. Set aside.
To arrange the last layer, mentally divide the contents of the dish into three equal "pie slice" shaped sections. Over one section, arrange the black or green olives. Over another section, arrange the artichoke hearts. And over the remaining section, layer the Parma ham and bean mixture.
Sprinkle the entire dish with the onion and parsley. Bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 20 minutes or until it's bubbly.
Remove from the oven and serve hot with dippers such as endive leaves or thin slices of toasted Italian bread.
Note: You can leave out the Parma ham if you want it to be vegetarian. Also, this dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, if necessary.

Variations

For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and mozzarella.
Add spinach or kale for an extra serving of greens.
Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
Use a mix of different olives for added complexity.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Layered Italian Spread turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier spreading.

- Drain any jarred or canned ingredients well to prevent excess moisture from making the dish soggy.

- For a vegetarian version, simply omit the prosciutto and add more vegetables or substitute with a vegetarian protein of your choice.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with endive leaves, thin slices of toasted Italian bread, or even crackers for dipping. It can also be served alongside a fresh salad for a more complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For an extra golden top, consider broiling the dish for the last few minutes of cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ricotta can be used in place of cream cheese for a lighter texture.

- Any hard cheese can substitute for Parmesan if desired.

- For a meat-free version, omit the prosciutto and add more vegetables or a vegetarian protein.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. If baking from cold, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Baked Layered Italian Spread in a beautiful pie dish or ceramic baker to make a statement. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light, crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity and freshness of the wine will complement the richness of the spread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the Baked Layered Italian Spread contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a relatively calorie-dense option. However, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, especially when served with a side of fresh vegetables.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the white beans, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers. Each serving contains approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The Baked Layered Italian Spread is rich in fats, primarily from the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella. These ingredients contribute to the dish's creamy texture and satisfying flavor. Each serving contains approximately 20-25 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Protein in this dish comes from the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, and prosciutto. Each serving provides approximately 10-15 grams of protein, making it a good source of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the cheese, vitamin C from the roasted red peppers, and iron from the artichoke hearts and olives. It also provides a variety of other nutrients in smaller amounts.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (from the cheeses) and potentially gluten, depending on the dippers used. Those with allergies or sensitivities should adjust the recipe accordingly or choose suitable alternatives.

Summary

Overall, the Baked Layered Italian Spread is a flavorful and indulgent dish that provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients. While it is higher in calories and fats, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

The Baked Layered Italian Spread is a versatile and delicious dish that combines the best of Italian flavors in a warm, comforting appetizer or side. With its rich, creamy layers and savory components, it's sure to be a hit at any gathering. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Baked Layered Italian Spread. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit my dear friend Maria, who lived just a few blocks away. Maria was known throughout our small town for her incredible cooking skills, and I always looked forward to trying out her latest creations.

As I entered Maria's cozy kitchen, the aroma of garlic and herbs greeted me, making my stomach growl with anticipation. Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

"I have a new recipe to share with you today, my dear," she said, pulling out a tattered old cookbook from her cluttered shelves. "It's a family favorite - Baked Layered Italian Spread. I know you'll love it."

Maria flipped through the pages of the cookbook, pointing out the ingredients and steps needed to create this mouthwatering dish. As she explained the recipe to me, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. I had always admired Maria's cooking and had often begged her to teach me her secrets. And now, here I was, about to learn how to make one of her most cherished recipes.

The recipe called for layers of creamy ricotta cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all baked to golden perfection. It sounded like a symphony of flavors, and I could hardly wait to taste the finished product.

Maria patiently guided me through each step of the recipe, showing me how to mix the ingredients, layer them in a baking dish, and bake them to perfection. As the dish baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with its delicious aroma, Maria regaled me with stories of how she had learned to make this recipe.

"It was passed down to me from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother before her," Maria explained, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia. "This recipe has been in our family for generations, and I am honored to share it with you."

As we sat down to enjoy the Baked Layered Italian Spread, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards Maria. Not only had she taught me how to make a delicious new dish, but she had also shared with me a piece of her family history. I savored each bite of the creamy, flavorful spread, feeling a sense of connection to the generations of women who had cooked before me.

From that day on, the Baked Layered Italian Spread became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen, and the joy of learning a new recipe from a dear friend.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. But no matter how I choose to customize it, the essence of the Baked Layered Italian Spread remains the same - a delicious tribute to the women who came before me, and a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past.

As I sit here, reflecting on that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the recipes, stories, and memories that have been passed down to me over the years. And I can only hope that one day, I will be able to pass on the tradition of the Baked Layered Italian Spread to someone else, sharing the joy of cooking and connection that has brought me so much happiness.