Tomato Mushroom Appetizers

Tomato Mushroom Appetizers Recipe from Czech Republic | Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Czech Republic | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

These Tomato Mushroom Appetizers are a delicious and savory treat that are perfect for any gathering or party. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, earthy mushrooms, and tangy blue cheese creates a flavor explosion that will have your guests coming back for more.

History

This recipe for Tomato Mushroom Appetizers has been a favorite for many years, with its origins dating back to the early 20th century. Originally created as a way to use up leftover mushrooms and tomatoes, this dish has evolved into a popular appetizer that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) medium-sized mushrooms, about 36
0.25 lb (113 g) blue cheese
1 tbsp minced green onions
1 tsp worcestershire sauce
1 pt (473 ml) cherry tomatoes (you need 1 for every 2 mushrooms; i.e., if you have 36 mushrooms you need 18 cherry tomatoes)
3 tbsp dry breadcrumbs

How to prepare

Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems, setting them aside for another use.
Place the mushroom caps, rounded side down, in an ungreased 13x9 baking dish.
In a separate bowl, blend together the onion, cheese, and Worcestershire sauce; set aside.
Wash the cherry tomatoes, dry them, and cut them in half.
Into each mushroom cap, place about 0.25 tsp of bread crumbs, followed by a scant 0.5 tsp of the cheese mixture, and top with a tomato half, cut side down.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender.

Variations

Substitute feta cheese for the blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil to the cheese mixture for added freshness.
Top the mushrooms with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking for a cheesy crust.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean the mushrooms thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

- Be sure to remove the stems from the mushrooms and set them aside for another use.

- Use a sharp knife to cut the cherry tomatoes in half for easy assembly.

- Be careful not to overfill the mushroom caps with the cheese mixture, as they may overflow during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Tomato Mushroom Appetizers as a tasty appetizer before a meal, or as a light snack on their own.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use goat cheese or cream cheese in place of blue cheese.

- Use panko breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs for added crunch.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mushroom caps and cheese mixture ahead of time and assemble them just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these Tomato Mushroom Appetizers on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Tomato Mushroom Appetizers with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tomato Mushroom Appetizers contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tomato Mushroom Appetizers contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tomato Mushroom Appetizers contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Tomato Mushroom Appetizers contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomato Mushroom Appetizers are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (blue cheese) and gluten (breadcrumbs).

Summary

Tomato Mushroom Appetizers are a delicious and nutritious appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. They are low in carbohydrates and calories, making them a healthy choice for those watching their diet.

Summary

These Tomato Mushroom Appetizers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your guests. With their savory flavors and nutritious ingredients, they are the perfect appetizer for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. Martha was a fantastic cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. As we sipped on tea and chatted about life, she suddenly excused herself and disappeared into the pantry.

A few minutes later, she emerged with a worn, stained recipe card in hand. She handed it to me with a mischievous smile and said, "I think you'll love these tomato mushroom appetizers. They're a family favorite."

I eagerly scanned the ingredients list and instructions, my mouth watering at the thought of the savory combination of tomatoes and mushrooms. The recipe seemed simple enough, but there was something special about it that I couldn't quite put my finger on.

Martha noticed my curiosity and laughed. "It's a recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family. My grandmother used to make these for special occasions, and now I carry on the tradition."

I was intrigued. Martha's family had roots in Italy, and I could only imagine the rich flavors and history that must be woven into this recipe. I thanked her profusely and promised to give it a try soon.

As I drove home that day, the recipe card clutched tightly in my hand, I couldn't shake the feeling of excitement that had settled in my chest. I couldn't wait to recreate Martha's tomato mushroom appetizers in my own kitchen, to taste a piece of her family's history and tradition.

The next day, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. The ripe tomatoes and earthy mushrooms filled the room with their tantalizing aromas as they sizzled in the skillet. I carefully followed Martha's instructions, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that, tasting and adjusting until the flavors were just right.

As I plated the finished appetizers, garnishing them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had successfully recreated Martha's family recipe, a delicious morsel of tradition that now held a special place in my heart.

Over the years, I continued to make Martha's tomato mushroom appetizers for family gatherings and dinner parties, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I shared the story of how I had learned to make them, passing on the tale of Martha and her treasured family tradition.

And as I watched my own grandchildren eagerly devouring the savory appetizers, their faces lighting up with delight, I knew that this recipe would live on for generations to come. It had become a part of my own family's history, a cherished link to the past and a delicious reminder of the power of food to bring people together.

So whenever I make Martha's tomato mushroom appetizers, I think of her and the day she shared her family recipe with me. I think of the laughter we shared in her kitchen, the bond we forged over a shared love of cooking and good food.

And I am grateful for the gift of that recipe, a small piece of Martha's heritage that now lives on in my own kitchen and in the hearts and bellies of those I love.