Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches

Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches Recipe from Italy | Olive Oil, Mozzarella and More

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches are a delicious and healthy option for a light lunch or dinner. This recipe combines fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and flavorful cheese on top of crusty Italian bread. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick meal.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family. It was originally created by my mom, who loved to experiment with different ingredients and flavors in the kitchen. The combination of zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese on bread was a favorite in our household and has become a staple recipe for us.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 zucchini, sliced
4 large slices round italian bread
1 large beefsteak tomato, cut into 8 slices
0.75 cup shredded mozzarella and asiago cheese with roasted garlic
0.5 tsp dried oregano
0.25 tsp each salt and pepper
0.5 cup basil leaves

How to prepare

Heat oil in a skillet.
Add zucchini and cook for 4 minutes, turning once, until golden and tender.
Top each slice of bread with 2 slices of tomato and 3 tbsp of cheese.
Sprinkle zucchini with oregano, salt, and pepper. Lift from skillet with a slotted spoon onto bread.
Scatter basil over the top.
Serve on plates with this easy side salad - toss chickpeas, green beans, and chopped red bell peppers with Italian dressing.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a different flavor profile.
Add roasted red peppers or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the zucchini until it is golden and tender, but not mushy.

- Use a good quality Italian bread for the base of the sandwich to add a crunchy texture.

- Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite herbs and spices for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the zucchini on high heat to get a nice golden color.

- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use yellow squash or eggplant instead of zucchini.

- Use whole wheat bread for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the zucchini and tomato slices ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sandwiches on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes and zucchini, as well as calcium and protein from the cheese.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Mom's Open-face Zucchini Sandwiches are a delicious and nutritious meal that is easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With fresh ingredients and simple flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a warm summer day, and my mother had invited some friends over for a garden party. As I wandered through the kitchen, I saw her bustling about, preparing all sorts of delicious treats. But what caught my eye was a platter of open-face zucchini sandwiches that she was assembling with such care and precision.

I had never seen anything like it before. The thin slices of zucchini were delicately placed on slices of toasted bread, topped with a creamy mixture of cheese and herbs. It looked so simple, yet so elegant. I couldn't wait to try it.

As the guests arrived and the party got underway, I found myself drawn back to the kitchen, where my mother was putting the finishing touches on the sandwiches. She noticed my interest and beckoned me over.

"Would you like to help me assemble these sandwiches?" she asked, handing me a knife and a bowl of the cheese mixture. I eagerly accepted, watching as she showed me how to layer the zucchini just so, and spread the cheese evenly over each slice of bread.

As we worked together, my mother began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that it was a family favorite, passed down from her own mother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. The recipe had been adapted and perfected over time, becoming a beloved tradition in our family.

I listened intently, absorbing every detail as my mother shared her memories of making the sandwiches with her own mother and siblings. She spoke of lazy summer afternoons spent in the garden, picking fresh zucchini and herbs, and of laughter-filled gatherings with friends and family.

By the time we had finished assembling the sandwiches, I felt a deep connection to this recipe and the stories that surrounded it. I knew that I wanted to carry on the tradition and make these sandwiches for my own loved ones someday.

As the party came to a close and the guests began to depart, I watched with pride as they took bites of the sandwiches and showered my mother with compliments. I could see the joy in her eyes as she shared her creation with others, passing on a piece of our family history with each delicious bite.

In the years that followed, I made the open-face zucchini sandwiches countless times, each time with a heart full of love and memories. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who marveled at its simplicity and flavor. And as I grew older, I passed it down to my own children, who eagerly learned the art of assembling the sandwiches just as I had.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing a platter of open-face zucchini sandwiches for a gathering of my own, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood my mind. I can almost hear the laughter of my mother and grandmother, and feel their presence as I carefully layer the zucchini and spread the cheese mixture.

This recipe, with its roots in family tradition and love, has become a cherished part of who I am. It is more than just a dish – it is a connection to my past, a link to those who came before me, and a gift that I will continue to pass down through the generations.

And as I place the final sandwich on the platter, I know that my mother and grandmother would be proud to see how far this recipe has come, and how it continues to bring joy and togetherness to all who taste it. Mom's open-face zucchini sandwiches will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and memories that are woven into every slice of zucchini and every dollop of cheese.